The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) returns from 21–24 May 2026 on Queensland’s Gold Coast and once again promises to be the biggest marine showcase in the Southern Hemisphere. With more than 300 exhibitors, over 800 vessels, luxury yachts, trailer boats, cutting-edge marine tech and thousands of boating enthusiasts walking the docks, SCIBS remains the must-attend event of the Australian boating calendar.

Whether you’re actively looking to buy, considering upgrading, exploring brokerage opportunities or simply wanting to stay across the latest marine trends, here’s our guide to making the most of SCIBS 2026.

Why SCIBS Matters

SCIBS is where Australia’s marine industry showcases its newest releases, flagship models, world premieres and latest innovations. This year’s show is expected to attract more than 45,000 visitors across four days with displays ranging from luxury superyachts to trailer boats, electronics, tenders, marine accessories and lifestyle brands.

For serious buyers, SCIBS offers:

  • The largest concentration of brokerage and new boats in Australia
  • Multiple world and Australian premieres
  • Side-by-side brand comparisons
  • Direct access to dealers, brokers and manufacturers
  • Finance, insurance and electronics specialists all in one place
  • The chance to inspect boats on-water in real conditions

Who To See at SCIBS 2026

Ray White Marine

One of Australia’s most recognised marine brokerage networks, Ray White Marine continues to expand its national presence with premium brokerage, luxury yacht and prestige vessel representation across Australia.

If you’re attending the show and considering:

  • Selling your current vessel
  • Upgrading to a larger yacht
  • Downsizing
  • Entering the boating market for the first time
  • Understanding the current brokerage market

Our team would love to catch up throughout the event.

Ray White Marine Hunter Region & Central Coast services:

  • Lake Macquarie
  • Newcastle
  • Port Stephens
  • Central Coast
  • Greater NSW and interstate buyers

Major Brands & Exhibitors To Watch

Riviera

Australia’s luxury motor yacht powerhouse returns with one of the largest displays at the show, including new Sport Yacht Platinum Editions and multiple luxury motor yachts on display.

Maritimo

Long-range cruising capability remains Maritimo’s trademark, with the new S50 Sedan Motor Yacht among the headline attractions for 2026.

Palm Beach Motor Yachts

Known for timeless styling and premium craftsmanship, Palm Beach Motor Yachts is showcasing the Palm Beach 70 amongst a premium line-up.

Princess Yachts

Expect a major luxury display from Princess, including large flybridge motor yachts and cutting-edge European design.

BENETEAU

BENETEAU continues to push strongly into both sail and power markets with a broad range expected across dayboats, cruisers and family-friendly models.

Horizon Yachts

One of the show’s major luxury attractions, Horizon is expected to showcase some of the highest-value vessels at SCIBS 2026.

Whitehaven & The Yacht Sales Co

Large luxury catamarans and cruising yachts remain a major trend heading into 2026, with Whitehaven and The Yacht Sales Co expected to attract significant attention.

Best Time To Attend

If you’re a serious buyer, we recommend attending:

  • Thursday or Friday mornings for quieter inspections
  • Early sessions before weekend crowds arrive
  • Pre-booking inspections wherever possible

Weekend traffic can become extremely busy around the marina and exhibitor areas.

What’s Trending in 2026

This year’s major trends include:

  • Luxury long-range motor yachts
  • Adventure cruising
  • Efficient diesel cruising platforms
  • Premium trailer boats
  • Hybrid/electric marine technology
  • High-end electronics integration
  • Catamarans and liveaboard platforms
  • Turn-key brokerage vessels with strong service history

Thinking About Selling Your Boat?

Boat shows often trigger strong buyer enquiry and are one of the best times of year to prepare your vessel for market.

At Buyaboat and Ray White Marine Hunter Region & Central Coast, we specialise in:

  • Premium brokerage marketing
  • High-quality photography & video
  • Buyer database marketing
  • Interstate buyer networks
  • Yacht club & marina partnerships
  • Online exposure across Australia’s largest marine platforms

If you’re considering selling in 2026, now is the ideal time to discuss strategy before the spring market begins.

Planning Your Visit

Dates

21–24 May 2026

Location

Sanctuary Cove Marina
Gold Coast, Queensland

Tickets

Tickets are available online through the official SCIBS website.

Visitor Numbers

Expected attendance exceeds 45,000 visitors over four days.

Final Thoughts

SCIBS 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest boat shows in recent years, with world premieres, major brokerage displays, luxury motor yachts, innovative technology and strong national buyer interest.

Whether you’re buying, selling or simply exploring the latest trends in boating, it remains the premier event on the Australian marine calendar.

If you’re attending SCIBS 2026 and would like to discuss the current market, vessel values, brokerage strategy or upcoming opportunities, contact the Ray White Marine Hunter Region & Central Coast team before or during the show.

We look forward to seeing you there.