Boat Shows & Marine Industry Exhibitions (6)
New Look, New Name Melbourne Summer Boat Show
The Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) is in preparations to kick off the 2012 Australian boat show circuit with the launch of the new look – new name Melbourne Summer Boat Show (MSBS) at Docklands, Melbourne.
Previously known as the Melbourne International Boat & Lifestyle Festival – MSBS will continue to be held at Melbourne’s premier waterside location, Docklands between 3-5 February, 2012.
The Melbourne Summer Boat Show is Melbourne’s only on-water event featuring a colourful display of yachts, power vessels, trailerable boats, personal water craft (PWC’s) and more.
Also on offer both on and off the water is a myriad of family oriented activities, demonstrations and come and try sessions.
“The Melbourne Summer Boat Show is a great day out for the family, as well as being a wonderful showcase of all Melbourne has to offer in regard to watercraft and watersports,” said BIAV General Manager, Clyde Batty.
“With the Show celebrating its 16th year of operation, the public can enjoy a wide range of events such as waterskiing & Wake boarding, PWC demonstrations, Dragon Boat races, the Yamaha Supertank Fishing Show and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Westpac helicopter rescue demos.”
Also on display at MSBS is Ralphy V, Tradeaboat’s Mariner Pacer 760 project boat, valued at $70,000 which visitors can go into the draw to win.
The Alma Doepel, an Australian built and operated three masted topsail schooner with over a 100 year history will also be open to the public at Shed 2, Victoria Harbour – allowing MSBS visitors to come and observe the restoration of this vessel.
In promoting the boating lifestyle as a family friendly activity, a variety of “Come & Try” sessions will be held on the water throughout the weekend. One of the great advantages to this show is that many show activities are free to the public with only a small charge to access the boats on the marina.
With a variety of boats, activities, ski & wakeboard displays and accessories, fishing and scuba gear there is something for everyone at the 2012 Melbourne Summer Boat Show.
Sanctuary Show Brings Quality Buyers
International exhibitors have claimed the quality of prospective buyers at the 23rd Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show was the best they have seen in 10 years.
Mulpha Executive General Manager Alison Quinn said the strong support for this year’s Show “has buoyed us as we plan forward for next year’s Show leading to the quarter century celebration in 2013.
“The feedback from exhibitors underpins this Show as a ‘must attend’ event for the marine industry.”
Grand Banks Singapore dealer James Purves, who has been coming to the Show for a decade, was impressed by the quality of the visitors.
At close of business, confirmed sales included two multi-million dollar Princess motor yachts – a 72 sold to a Sydney buyer and a 52 to a Gold Coast buyer. The total value of the sale was around $A7 million.
Mark Richards who manufactures Palm Beach Motor Yachts reported the sale of two of the just-released 52s to current Palm Beach buyers who have upgraded to the new model.
Further positive comments from the 384 exhibitors included Riviera’s Stephen Milne who said: “We have had a fantastic show, we sold 10 boats which have a retail value of some $A15 million ranging in size from a number of 43 Flybridges, a 5000 Sports Yacht, two 5800 Sport Yachts and three of the brand-new 53 Flybridge model,” released in a world launch at Sanctuary Cove.
Mr Milne added he had three full days of sea trials next week and he was confident the company would exceed last year’s sales. He added sales were made to buyers in Sydney, Adelaide, South Africa, New Zealand and Puerto Rico.
“We are exceedingly happy about this year’s Show and we are cracking the champagne.”
Brett Flanagan reported the sale of two 350 Integrity Pilothouse boats – one to a walk-in couple who paid for the boat on the spot.
“We have never really sold a boat at a show before this Show, and we have six or seven sea trials booked for next week,” he said.
Ensign Ship Brokers also reported a walk-in sale on the first day of the Show with a firm order for a Beneteau Oceanis 40.
According to Clipper Motoryachts Australian Managing Director Brett Thurley, the past eight weeks have been the strongest for the company in new boat sales since taking over Australian distribution two years ago.
“We have commitments on three boats at the Show already and the strong ongoing interest will give us a lot of work to do in the weeks after the Show.”
Flying Fish Hovercraft sold three hovercraft at the Show. “I have to say the quality of the enquiries is exceptional,” said the company’s Emma Pullen.
“The big news for us is that a visitor to the Show from New Zealand is considering the purchase of 10 craft for an events business and has departed the Show for an immediate demonstration at our own events business in Caboolture – that would be a very significant sale for us in expanding the HoverCross brand internationally,” she said.
Julie Balzano from Enterprise Florida in the US managed a delegation of Florida companies exhibiting at the Show for the first time. “The overall consensus has been very positive,” she commented.
One of the five manufacturers was Florida company, Armstrong Nautical Products. Vice President Russ Sedlack said there were a lot of discerning customers at the Show.
“We don’t normally sell off the stand but people insisted they buy our product off the stand,” said Mr Sedlack. The centre pole telescopic boarding ladders and ladders for RIBs proved popular. He answered inquiries from international visitors from Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Canada, Japan and China.
Nautical Structures President Robert Bolline exhibited at Sanctuary Cove for the first time with the Florida delegation.
“We are very optimistic to build business here and we have found the boat builders to be very open-minded and open to discuss business.”
American company Westport Shipyard was at the Show in the Superyacht Australia pavilion. The company came to Sanctuary Cove for the first time as it has clients in Australia owning a 34m and 40m vessel. The company builds composite motoryachts and claims to be the largest yacht builder in North America.
“It is the first time at the Show…. We also do Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Singapore, Cannes and Monaco. We consider this a very good venue for international audiences,” said Vice President Philip Purcell.
By 4pm on Sunday, visitor numbers were tallied at 36,504 – a 6.5% drop from 2010 which compares favourably with other international shows this year.
Exhibitor Outer Reef Yachts President and CEO Jeff Druek said the company did 25 to 28 shows a year.
“We had many positive leads. Every Show has been the same – the volume of visitors is down but the quality is superior.”
“The strength of the Australian dollar has driven interest. We find we are very well received. Sanctuary Cove to us is a ‘go to’ venue,” said Mr Druek.
Australian companies also enjoyed sales. Seawind’s sales and marketing manager Brett Vaughan said the company made a number of sales of its new Seawind 1000XL2.
“Interest in the larger Seawinds – the 1160 and flagship 1250 and the Corsair C37 that debuted at this Show is also strong and we anticipate sales in the days after the Show,” he said.
Traditionally Maritimo does not reveal sales figures from shows. However Maritimo’s Director of Marketing Luke Durman acknowledged strong interest in Maritimo’s M48 Series II, A55 Aegean and C53 Sports Cabriolet models.
Sanctuary Cove’s event also saw the relaunch of the iconic Mustang brand.
“The Mustang 32 sold well as expected,” said Mr Durman. The Show also saw the unveiling of a Mustang 50, which proved to be a real surprise package to the Mustang brand loyalists.
Australasian Marine Imports also had a successful show, with the sale of a Hampton 680 Endurance and an Alaskan 57 Pilothouse along with an Alaska 46 Flybridge which are built in China.
Club Marine is a sponsor of Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. Media partners include BoatPoint.com.au, Channel Seven, 4KQ, Trade a Boat and 92.5 Gold FM. Maritime Safety Queensland is a government supporter. Hawker Pacific and Barz Optics are supporters.
The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community. Sanctuary Cove was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD, an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian listed Mulpha International BHD, has invested significantly in Sanctuary Cove over recent years, resulting in a major transformation designed to ensure the pre-eminent community remains at the forefront of master-planned living in Australia.
Dates for forthcoming Sanctuary Cove International Boat Shows are: May 24-27, 2012; May 23-26, 2013; May 22-25, May 2014.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Kate Duryea, PR & Media Consultant
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Direct line (07) 55 77 6549
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- Maxum
- Sea Ray
- Bertram
- Riviera
- Mustang
- Caribbean
- Beneteau
- Hunter
- Streaker
- Savage
- Bayliner
- Princess
- Regal
- Sunseeker
- Larson
- Viking
- Cabo
- Silverton
- Trojan
- Quintrex
- express cruiser
- express cruisers
- flybridge cruisers
- flybridge cruiser
- cabin cruiser
- cabin cruisers
- luxury yacht
- luxury yachts
- super yachts
- super yacht
- maritime
- marine
- marina
- bow rider
- ski boat
- wakeboarding boat
- fishing boat
- fishing boats
- commercial boats
- commercial boat
- tugboat
- jet ski
- boat information
- boat flyers
- boat brochures
- boat movies
- boat videos
- wooden boat
- wooden boats
- wooden yachts
- wooden yacht
- timber boats
Sanctuary Cove Show Reflects Economic Upswing
The 2010 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show staged later this month has seen an increase in exhibitor numbers with keen anticipation by the marine sector of a successful business event.
The 22nd annual Show is staged at Sanctuary Cove on the Gold Coast from Thursday, May 20 to Sunday, May 23.
Recognised as a leading marine event in the Asia Pacific region, the Show has drawn 414 exhibitors, close to 100 marine product launches and slightly up on the 2009 figure of 406.
“We are delighted to receive international attention with international exhibitors or buyers coming from United States, New Zealand, China, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia, Jordan, Turkey and Italy to name a few countries,” said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show general manager Barry Jenkins.
“In April I attended the China International Boat Show as part of our year-long international marketing and received the strongest level of inquiry in around a decade of marketing the Show in China,” said Mr Jenkins.
There are 98 world and Australian marine product releases at this stage with close to 200 boats on water at the marina, 7000sqm of pavilion space fully booked and a further 7590sqm of hardstand display space.
“We believe the marine industry is approaching the show with a positive outlook with many manufacturers planning new releases to capture buyers during the Show,” said Mr Jenkins. “Pavilion and hard stand exhibition areas received particularly strong bookings.”
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show traditionally attracts around 50,000 visitors to the four-day event. Displays across the site are valued at millions of dollars. A survey of the 2008 Show found the event generated more than $A310 million to the Gold Coast economy.
As in past years, there is an International Business Lounge to assist international buyers. This year, initiatives include Australia’s first sea trial area at a boat show and a dedicated Prestige Brokerage and Charter display.
A wide array of boats and marine products are displayed with multi million dollar vessels from international brands such as Princess, Sunseeker, Fairline, Fleming Yachts and power vessels from leading Australian companies such as Maritimo, Riviera and Assegai Marine.
There are world launches of sail boats, trailerable vessels, smaller power boats and a range of marine accessories and marine business services.
“Ticket sales have been strong for the Australian Marine Industry Breakfast facilitated by Gold Coast City Marina,” said Mr Jenkins. This ticketed public event features Thom Dammrich from the US, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and president of the International Council for Marine Industries (ICOMIA) as guest speaker. The breakfast is held on Friday, May 21.
In other news, Chris Murray will start his appointment as Sanctuary Cove General Manager Events and Marina a week out from the event. Mr Murray, who has formerly held roles with the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, Clipsal Australia Pty Ltd and PDL Electrical Solutions, will take the opportunity to see first-hand the operation of the event.
A long time boat owner, Mr Murray raced sailing dinghies in his teens then owned a range of pleasure and fishing boats. He has competed in marlin and offshore sportsfishing tournaments, navigational log events and has delivered yachts to various ports.
Ticket sales for the Show are available online. Online tickets offer a small discount to gate ticket entry. One-day online general admission costs $A22 with concession online tickets at $A19. Children aged 14 years and under are free. For a full range of gate, two-day and four-day admission tickets, view the website on www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au
During the Show, there is no public parking on site however streamlined transport options include Park ‘n’ Ride, water taxi and ferry transfer, helicopter transfer and limousine and taxi drop off.
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is recognised internationally with membership of the prestigious International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO)
The 2010 Show’s major sponsor is Club Marine. Media partners include Channel 7, Radio 4KQ, Trade A Boat, BoatPoint.com.au and Gold 92.5FM. Sponsors include Hawker Pacific, the Queensland Government, Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove. Boat Show staff are dressed by Line 7. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is a member of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) and Marine Queensland.
The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community. Sanctuary Cove, which was first launched in 1986 by developer Mike Gore, was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD is an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Mulpha International BHD, a Malaysian listed company.
FOR MEDIA INFORMATION:
Kate Duryea, PR & Media Consultant Barry Jenkins, General Manager
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Ph +61 7 55 77 6549 Ph+ 61 7 55 77 6011
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Note to Media: Details on new product launches, entertainment and images are available on request. Interviews are available on request. Please contact Kate Duryea to arrange.
BY LOCATION
2009 Melbourne Boat Show
VIC/Melbourne
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Boat Show photos
BY LOCATION
2009 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
QLD/Brisbane
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Boat Show details about a boat show or exhibition, where it is on, contact details, trade hours, what's on offer, entry fees, website link, specials offered, map or directions.
BY LOCATION
ACT/Canberra
NSW/Sydney
Darling Harbour - Set to Emerge as the Headquarters of the Australian Boating Industry
Venue: Darling Harbour, Sydney
Times: Open every day 10am-8pm (halls) and 10am-6pm (marina)
Cost: Admission prices for the 2009 show remain unchanged at $18 (Adults), $42 (Family ticket admitting two adults and up to three children aged 6-17 years), $16 (Senior cardholders), $12 (Aged Pensioner cardholders) and $10 (Child aged 6-17 years). Children 5 years and younger are admitted free. For the first time, visitors can take advantage of a three-day VIP pass for $39 which allows entry to any three days of the show (one person per day).
Website: www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
Sydney International Boat Show 2009 begins
Sydney, 21 July: Climb the riggings, hit the decks. It’s time for the annual Boat Show. Sydneysiders will soon see boats pulling into the Harbour for the 2009 Sydney International Boat Show which starts this month, 30 July. Organised by the Boating Industry Association of New South Wales, the event will be packed with new vessels and products, historic boats and entertainment. The five day show is not just for experienced boaties, the events and guest speaker presentations cater to the whole family and will be valuable for those who are keen to learn more about boating.
Special event: Boat Building Competition Ever wondered how to build a boat? For a quick and fun lesson, visit the boat building competition in Darling Harbour where the teams will battle it out to construct a boat. The teams will have two hours to create their boats which will be put to the test when they set sail around Cockle Bay and Darling Harbour. The competition draws many shipwrights and provides for an entertaining afternoon as the teams will discover if their vessels sink or make it back to dry land safely. The Boat Building Competition is staged by the Shipwrights and Boatbuilders Association of NSW (SBA) and the Boating Industry Association of NSW Ltd (BIA), organisers of the Sydney International Boat Show. The lesson will start at 10am and the race will start at 2.30pm on Saturday, 1 August near the IMAX in Darling Harbour.
The 42nd Boatshow not only promises to have exciting and interesting events, the show will also display innovative products.
Sydney, 15 June: Darling Harbour is gearing up to play host to one of Sydney’s most exciting annual events, the Sydney International Boat Show, from 30 July – 3 August. Once again, the show will anchor in the city’s favourite harbour for five days of boating entertainment, events and the opportunity to witness a unique collection of famous and historic boats.
Organised by the Boating Industry Association of NSW (BIA), the Sydney International Boat Show promises to cater for all tastes with an array of events designed to entertain the whole family, from the keenest of boaties to those who simply want to learn more about the boating lifestyle.
“We have an extremely exciting line-up of attractions and events at this year’s show,” said Domenic Genua, Marketing and Event Manager for BIA. “We’re pulling out all the stops to provide visitors with an experience to remember. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or simply interested in coming down to Darling Harbour for a fun-filled day for all the family, we have plenty for you to do and see. With more than 250 exhibitors, you can find everything you need to achieve the ideal boating lifestyle under one roof.”
Some of the firm favourites returning include:
Fishing is a popular Aussie passion for many so the Nautilus Marine Insurance Fishing Clinic, widely-regarded as one of Australia’s most entertaining and informative clinics, returns with popular personalities and fishing experts on hand to entertain the crowds with a tale or two, such as John Bethune (Mr Bass), and Channel 9’s weatherman and keen angler Mike Bailey.
The Better Boating Lounge will provide visitors with somewhere to relax and listen to inspiring true stories of bravery, courage and excitement from a number of VIP guests and presenters; including Pete Goss and the Spirit of Mystery, Justin and James from Crossing the Ditch, Don McIntyre, as well as 16 year old Jessica Watson who will shortly become the youngest person to attempt to sail non-stop, unassisted around the world.
This year’s Fashion Parades will feature the latest in nautically-inspired sportswear and recreational clothing from Musto, and innovative new technologies to help make boating more comfortable.
The annual Boat Building Competition will once again entertain the crowds with skilled tradesmen attempting to build a boat in just two hours and then sail it around Cockle Bay in an exhilarating race to the finish line.
For the first time, ticket holders can be treated to a special tour of Sydney Harbour by boat, which will show visitors why so many people take up recreational boating. Best of all, it’s free to all show entrants but be quick, spaces will be limited!
Another draw card is the Classic and Old Boat Display which will bring some of the most magnificent vessels to sail Australia’s waters to within reaching distance; whilst the Walk of Fame will feature some of the best-known and historic vessels such as the Lady Hopetoun (1900), the Boomerang (1903) and the Waratah (1900), Brindabella, Sydney to Hobart winner Love and War and the Spirit of Mystery from Cornwall in the UK.
With even more fun-filled attractions and entertainment to be announced in the coming weeks, expectation is high for 2009 to be the best ever Sydney International Boat Show.
The Boating Industry Association of NSW, organiser of the Sydney International Boat Show, is determined to overthrow the global financial crisis by again staging an exhibition Sydneysiders can be proud of over five action-packed days, July 30 to August 3.
It’s a safe bet than when the doors open for the 42nd staging of the Asia Pacific region’s #1 boating exhibition, the people of Sydney will again embrace the show as their own ‘shop window’ to the boating lifestyle.
Of course, the Sydney International is far more than ‘just another boat show.’
It’s a glittering extravaganza of nautical entertainment, with attractions to reach out and grab the attention of show visitors at every turn.
While the professional displays staged by more than 300 exhibitors representing the cream of the marine industry remain the show’s highlight, organisers have pulled out all stops to increase the show’s appeal.
The Fishing Clinic, widely viewed as Australia’s best angling ‘clinic’, the interesting and educational Better Boating Lounge, daily Fashion Parades, the often hilarious Boat Building Competition and the Discover Recreational Boating Tours can be guaranteed to attract the crowds.
Making a welcome return to the show are the two young men who astonished the nation when they crossed the Tasman Sea to New Zealand aboard their specially-built kayak, Justin Jones and James Castrission; talk to the adventurers and see the kayak that carried them through the dangerous voyage.
Other attractions include an inaugural photography competition and a chance to view first hand some ‘floating history’ in the form of ‘Spirit of Mystery’, ‘Lady Hopetoun’, ‘Boomerang’, and ‘Waratah’.
For those who appreciate the great outdoors, ask yourself the question; can you afford NOT to be at the 2009 Sydney International Boat Show?
QLD/Brisbane
Wrap Up - 2009 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Sanctuary Cove Boat Show Brings Buyers
The 21st Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show boosted confidence to the recreational marine industry with positive sales and strong sales leads from around the world. The Show had close to 600 boats and watercraft with 224 boats on water and a further 365 boats and water craft on hardstand and pavilion displays. Of the 406 exhibitors, there were 107 on water, a further 186 in pavilions and 113 with hardstand displays through the waterfront Marine Village. On-water displays stretch 2.838km if placed stem to stern.
A wide range of internationals at the Show include visitors, exhibitors, buyers and delegations from India, Taiwan, China, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, Spain, the US and the Philippines. Around the marina and in the huge pavilions the mood was positive. While the general show numbers were down on last year because of the adverse weather, exhibitors reported quality enquiries. “Total numbers for the three days were 36,479 which were excellent results given the extraordinary weather conditions,” said Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show general manager Mark Jensen.
“Thanks to the dedicated boat show team, our contractors and the emergency services including the police and ambulance, we were able to ensure the safe delivery of the 2009 event during these unseasonal conditions,” he said. Jet Ski dealers Jet Ski World and SeaDoo Gold Coast took a number of deposits and reported follow up prospects. Denver Fresser of Jet Ski World said he would be disappointed if he didn’t sell 20 skis following the Show. Gold Coast Sea Doo’s Simon Birch said there was a lot of interest in the new GTX Limited iS 255, which was unveiled for the first time at the Show. He took deposits for seven with further positive prospects that he expects will revert to sales.
Thermal Cookware were at the Show for the first time. Originally the company concentrated on caravan and camping shows but after the interest shown by the boating community in their products they plan to return next year. It was full house at the Seawind Catamarans sailing seminars. Five were held each day and attended by some 30 people at each session. Seawind also reported good sales of their sailing catamarans.
Navico, which distributes electronics, said that there was much interest in the new Broadband radar introduced at the Show and there was genuine interest in the full range of sounders and plotters the company distributes. ICOM also reported genuine interest in their radios. On the marina there was also quality enquiries. Horizon – Boats International got away a 97-footer, two 65s, a 68 to a local owner, and have an offer on a 78 footer. Sunseeker took deposits on a 52 Predator and a Manhattan 70 and, according to Sunseeker’s Alf Barbagallo, the sale of the first 30m Mega yacht in Australia is expected to be finalised next week.
Riviera’s brand new 5800 Sports yacht was a hit. Deposits for seven were taken at the show with another four Rivieras also sold. Outer Reef exhibited at the Show last year without a boat and were so impressed they brought a 63 footer this year and were delighted with the response. At least six solid prospects have come from the Show. The Haines Group introduced a limited 25 Anniversary version of the popular 580. Only five were manufactured, three were sold at the Show.
Inflatable boat dealer G-Force took deposits and has a number of follow-ups and said they didn’t expect the Show to be as good as it was. While Marine Safety Queensland reported a steady flow of boating enthusiasts at their stand, many seeking advice on safety regulations. Valued sponsors for the 2009 event include Club Marine, Trade a Boat, BoatPoint.com.au and Maritime Safety Queensland and supporter Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove and Helly Hansen. Media partners are Channel 7, Classic Hits 4KQ, Gold Coast Bulletin and 92.5 Gold FM. The International Business Lounge is located within the Queensland Government Centre with support by the Queensland Government, Gold Coast City Council, Austrade, AIMEX and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Photos here! 
DOWNLOAD 2009 FACT SHEET
VIC/Melbourne
The 49th Annual Melbourne Boat Show, Melbourne Exhibition Centre 2nd – 6th July 2009.
In collaboration with Ford and other major partners, the Melbourne Boat Show is the southern hemisphere’s largest indoor boat show with displays of boats, products, services & entertainment to be held over five days.
The 2009 Melbourne Boat Show is taking on a new and exciting layout where the event will be split into separate precincts:
· Fishing Precinct
· Wakeboard/Ski Precinct
· Marine Tourism Precinct
Day 1 Photos here (Check out boatplace at Slide Share for more very soon!)
SA/Adelaide
NT/Darwin
WA/Perth
TAS/Hobart
International Boat Shows
YACHT AND BOAT KOREA PLANNING ON TRACK FOR 2009
The third Yacht and Boat Korea event in the leading shipbuilding province of Gyeongsangnam in South Korea is expected to attract 150 companies from 20 countries from October 29 to November 1, 2009. Encompassing a four-day boat show at Danghangpo (Danghang Port) and the 3rd Admiral Yi Soon-Shin Cup International Yacht Race at Tongyeong Donam Port zone, last year’s event drew 10,000 people. Both events are situated close to the city of Goseong which is easily accessible by air, road or rail from Seoul or the city of Busan.
“The Korean government has placed a substantial effort in creating an improved trade and investment climate which has brought real GDP growth of 4.1 per cent for 2008,” said International Marketing Consultant Barry Jenkins. This follows robust growth of 5 per cent in 2007. The province of Gyeongsangnam occupies 10.6 percent of the country, the fourth largest province, with 1019 shipbuilding firms employing more than 91,400 workers. Government policies are in place for the creation of 10 marina projects while 23 newly-designated shipbuilding sites are within the province.
“Provincial governor Taeho Kim supported the creation of the event to further the tourism and marine industry growth in the region,” said Mr Jenkins. In keeping with this strategy, Yacht and Boat Korea 2009 has entered into a co-operative agreement with Sanctuary Cove in Australia, the successful creators of the world-renowned Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, to assist with the event’s international development. Mr Jenkins was general manager for Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show for many years and now works in international relations and special events for Sanctuary Cove. Australian PR company Kate D Enterprises has been contracted to further extend international publicity for the upcoming Show.
The inaugural Yacht Korea Show in 2007 drew a modest 70 exhibitors with visitors from Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, the US, Europe and Australia. For 2009, the organisers aim to attract 150 exhibitors, particularly increasing international company representation. The event’s name also changed this year to Yacht and Boat Korea. The boat show features leisure boats and yachts, engines, marine equipment and cultural displays with pavilion, open-air and marina displays . In 2009, the show’s location has moved from a convention centre to the city of Goseong to leverage off plans to develop the region into a recreational marine hub in 2010.
“The South Sea coastal region of South Korea, Namhaean, offers pristine waters, deep waterways and is strategically located close to Asian economic giants such as China and Japan,” said Mr Jenkins. Other advantages include calm weather and scenic islands for cruising. “Yacht and Boat Korea 2009 will be staged at the newly-opened Goseong Dinosaur Park, a major tourism attraction which has drawn more than 1.7 million visitors over four months since opening in March this year. “The event will also offer an educational aspect to the emerging affluent Korean domestic market on the lifestyle benefits of recreational boating,” said Mr Jenkins.
Gyeongsangnam province is located in the southern eastern end of the Korean peninsula with a population of more than 3.13 million. The coastline of more than 2000km encompasses a national marine park. Leading world brands have industries located in the region including Samsung Heavy Industries Co, Daewoo Shipbuilding Co, LG Electronics plant, Sony Korea Co and Korea Aerospace Industries. The Republic of Korea (South Korea) has signed free trade agreements with 16 countries including Singapore, ASEAN, the US and the European Free Trade Association.
The exhibition is staged by GnA International Co Ltd based in Changwon. For details on application forms and the downloadable exhibition kit view www.yachtkorea.or.kr
Korea Boat Show hours are 10am to 5pm daily, from Thursday, October 29 to Sunday, November 1.
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