Leading international events, exhibitions and publishing group Informa is set to enter the Australian boat show market with the launch of the Australian International Boat Show. The new event will be held in Sydney’s Darling Harbour, opening on 29 July 2027, with dates secured for the next five years.
The Australian International Boat Show will combine a substantial indoor exhibition at ICC Sydney, showcasing trailer boats, smaller craft, marine technology, accessories, engines, equipment, services and lifestyle products, with an on-water display at Cockle Bay for larger vessels.
Before entering the Australian boat show market, Informa undertook an extensive feasibility study, which identified an opportunity to support Australia’s recreational marine sector and return a major boating event to Darling Harbour.
Informa Australia managing director, Spiro Anemogiannis, says: “Our intention is to combine Informa’s international experience, global resources and marine event knowledge with strong local expertise and industry partnerships to deliver a world-class boating and lifestyle event for Sydney. To help deliver that vision, we have engaged three experienced individuals to lead the boat show delivery team, with a combined 60 years of experience in the Australian marine industry and boat show delivery. Their local knowledge, combined with Informa’s international capability, provides a strong foundation for the Australian International Boat Show.”
Informa owns or operates several of the world’s most recognised boat shows, including the Monaco Yacht Show, Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, Palm Beach International Boat Show, Newport International Boat Show in Rhode Island, the St Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show, and the Windy City Boat & Yacht Show in Chicago, which launches in June 2026.
The introduction of a new Australian boat show to the existing calendar raises questions about Sydney’s existing shows and how existing formats will position themselves after 2027.
Last year, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (SCIBS) reported record participation and exhibitor engagement during its 36th edition. The 37th Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is scheduled to take place from 21–24 May 2026.
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