Sydney International Boat Show 2006

The 2006 Sydney International Boat Show (August 3 - 8) is on track for another bumper event as organisers report a great line up of things to see.

More than 350 manufacturers, distributors and marine dealerships will pack the waterfront Darling Harbour complex to the rafters, as the six-day extravaganza becomes the place to be for both boating enthusiasts and novices alike.

In terms of sheer size, the Sydney International Boat Show is the largest recreational boating exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere.

It is the only such show south of the equator ever to "nudge" the 100,000 attendance figure, its current gate record, 93,501 (2004) suggesting that the "magic ton" is not far away.

The show occupies the six cavernous halls of the Darling Harbour Exhibition Centre, while on the sparkling waters of the adjoining Cockle Bay, a specially constructed marina will be home to more than 270 vessels too large to lift out of the water and into the exhibition halls.

Domenic Genua, Marketing and Event Manager for the Boating Industry Association, who are the organisers of the show, said the association plans the show in what he terms "a two-prong attack."

"We see the association as having two major aims; firstly it is our responsibility to provide exhibitors with a superb venue where product can be shown," he explained.

"Secondly, we must offer six gala days of entertainment to attract visitors, hence our claim that the Sydney International is more than just a boat show. It is a celebration of recreational boating and an interesting and enjoyable day out for all in the family," he added.

The boating world's renowned names will be on show; Riviera, Maritimo, Grand Banks, Bertram, Sea Ray, Chris-Craft, Carver, Bayliner, Princess, Sunseeker, Beneteau, Bavaria, Wellcraft, Jeanneau, Maxum, Glastron, Seaswirl, Four Winns just a few among the many.

Australia's top trailer boat manufactures will, as always, be prominent, with Haines Signature, Lewis, Cruise Craft, Quintrex, Haines Hunter, Savage, Whittley among those on display.

These are just to name a few, show organisers estimate that as many as 200 different brands of boats will be on display with almost 900 models on display.

To keep the show "buzzing" and visitor interest on a high throughout, organisers have developed a range of entertainment ranging from nautical fashion parades, the Strictly Sail and Discover Sailing education centres, the always popular Yamaha Fishing Clinic (regularly playing to standing room-only crowds), the informative Better Boating Workshops and the educational and the amusing Boat Building Competition will run on the Saturday.

The 2006 Sydney International Boat Show will trade 10am to 8pm on each of the six days, both exhibition halls and marina.

Admission charges remain unchanged, with single adult ($17), family ($40) admitting two adults and up to three children aged 6-17-years, Seniors ($15), Pensioners ($11) and children aged 6 to 17-years ($9). Children 5 and under are admitted free.

First time visitors to Sydney will find the show easily accessed. Darling Harbour is only a short downhill stroll from the city's central business district. It is well served by all manner of public transport, including Sydney's vast suburban rail network, numerous bus services, ferries, light rail and monorail. Motorists will find parking stations surrounding the complex, all within a few minutes walk of the main entrance.

If boats are your passion, if you love Sydney Harbour and its magnificent surrounds, if you're looking for a day out with a difference this is an exhibition not to be missed Darling Harbour, without doubt one of the best venues on the world stage for a boat show, is an attraction in its own right.

When the Sydney International Boat Show comes to town, it's an absolute must destination. The show is proudly sponsored by Club Marine Insurance and NSW Maritime.

For further information visit the show website, www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
Recorded information: 1300 7 BOATS (26287)
Telephone +61 2 9438 2077