Docklands is the precinct for four great days of maritime excellence next month when thousands of enthusiasts and families pour in for the 63rd Melbourne Boat Show, Australia’s most accessible.
This year’s free event – October 16-19 – is making waves with a focus on getting more women into boating, while celebrating Victoria’s powerhouse marine manufacturing industry that continues to punch above its weight on the national stage.
Making Boating for Everyone
With women representing just 19 per cent of marine licence holders in Victoria, the 2025 Melbourne Boat Show is pioneering a change, with dedicated Women on Water initiatives designed to inspire confidence and break down barriers to participation.
“The Melbourne Boat Show is about celebrating our whole boating community,” Steve Walker, CEO of Boating Industry Association of Victoria, said.
“We’re excited to see more women, families and young people getting involved, and this year we’re working to make it even easier for everyone to discover the joy of life on the water.
“While encouraged that 26 per cent of younger licence holders aged 12-35 are female, we know we can do so much better.”
Industry leaders Eleni Savva (Savwinch) and Michelle Reid (Dunbier) will spearhead the Women on Water/Women in the Industry networking sessions alongside Welcome to Safe Boating presentations, which are open to all attendees to support greater diversity and inclusion in boating and the marine industry.
Victoria’s Marine Manufacturing Might
As Australia’s second-largest boat building hub after South-east Queensland, Victoria’s marine industry will take centre stage, with local manufacturers showcasing why the state is a leader in innovation and craftsmanship.
Haines Hunter, celebrating 25 years of Victorian excellence at their Derrimut facility, will headline a top lineup of local manufacturers, including Bar Crusher (Dandenong), Hart Marine
(Mornington), Inferno Marine (Eildon), Revival Boats (Bayswater), Rolco Boats (Campbellfield), Whittley Boats (Campbellfield) and Composite Constructions (Braeside).
Plus, Parker, Benneteau, Jeanneau, Chaparral, Palm Beach and Saxdor will be among the premium international brands representing the latest in luxury marine craftsmanship at the Boat Show.
Unmissable Maritime Experiences
From fishing boats to cruising yachts, this year’s Boat Show offers an experience for every age and skillset:
Supertank: Master the art of angling at the Supertank live fishing station and gear up at Tackle Island with expert advice from seasoned professionals.
Honda Marine Main Stage: This is where you get all the expert advice from the fishing pros and industry leaders.
Heritage Adventures: Step aboard maritime history with ferry trips to the magnificent Tall Ship Alma Doepel and historic steam tug Wattle at North Wharf.
Culinary Demonstrations: Join Step Outside Show host Paul Burt at the Suzuki Seafood Precinct for mouth-watering live cooking demonstrations – transforming the day’s catch into meal delights.
Cutting-edge Tech: Discover the latest innovations in marine safety, navigation systems, and sustainable boating solutions.
Win Big While You Explore
Every visitor who registers online enters the draw for fabulous prizes including:
- 1-Year Marina Berth Lease at Wyndham Harbour – Value: $15,000
- Casio Pro Trek Watches – Value: $599
- Premium Floatables – Value: $1,600+
- Boatcatch Trailer System – Value: $699
- Big Sky Innovations Trampoline Pool – Value: $1,145
- Yachtmaster Sailing Course Voucher – Value: $655
Building Tomorrow’s Marine Future
Supporting the Victorian Government’s Boating Careers program, the 2025 Melbourne Boat Show emphasises the critical importance of nurturing the skilled workforce that keeps the state’s thriving marine industry at the forefront of Australian boat building.
The 63rd Melbourne Boat Show: Thursday October 16, to Sunday October 19
Thursday: 12pm-6pm
Friday-Saturday: 10am-6pm
Sunday: 10am-4pm
For more information, visit the show website HERE
