By Alana Hay – Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show Media Office
Exhibitor applications are now officially open for the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show taking place from 21 to 24 May 2026 at Sanctuary Cove on Australia’s spectacular Gold Coast.
Now entering its 37th year, the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show remains the Southern Hemisphere’s largest and most influential marine showcase, bringing together world-class marine innovation, luxury vessels, leading lifestyle brands and the industry’s pioneering talent. Set against the iconic backdrop of Sanctuary Cove on Australia’s Gold Coast, the 2026 event is shaping up to be one of the strongest in its history, with a record number of exhibitors on the waitlist.
Following the success of the 2025 Show, which welcomed more than 45,000 visitors, including boating enthusiasts, buyers and industry leaders, the 2026 edition promises even greater opportunities for exhibitors to connect with qualified customers, strengthen commercial partnerships and amplify brand visibility on a global stage.
Mulpha Events General Manager, Claire Back, said the opening of exhibitor applications marks another exciting milestone for Australia’s marine sector.
“The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show continues to be a driving force for industry growth, showcasing the very best in Australian and international marine innovation. Each year the Show sets a new benchmark, and 2026 will be no exception. We encourage businesses of all sizes to take advantage of this opportunity and be part of an event that consistently delivers strong commercial outcomes and an exceptional visitor experience,” Back said.
“Exhibitors continue to choose the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show as the premier event on the marine lifestyle calendar, an investment reflected in the Show’s remarkable success and growth in recent years – including a sellout since 2022, and we anticipate another strong waiting list for the 2026 edition.”
It provides a proven powerful platform for launching new products and services to a highly engaged, targeted audience. Year after year, exhibitors see substantial returns through qualified sales leads, valuable networking opportunities, and increased brand exposure,” she said.
Returning exhibitors from 2025 are encouraged to take advantage of the exhibitor loyalty period, available until COB 10 December. This exclusive opportunity provides priority access to preferred site locations and ensures brands are positioned for maximum impact at the 2026 show.
Then from 11 December, applications will open to new exhibitors. With demand increasing each year early submission is strongly recommended as all new applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis once the loyalty period concludes.
For those still refining their activation or space requirements, the Mulpha Events exhibition team will provide personalised support following application submission to ensure each exhibitor secures the ideal location.
The 2025 Show showcased more than 300 exhibitors and a record 824 boats on display, including 422 vessels on water and 402 on land, alongside more than 2,500 marine products, underscoring its position as the region’s leading marine marketplace. The Show also continues to serve as a significant economic engine for Queensland, injecting an estimated $471 million to the state’s economy via direct commercial and tourism impact.
As Queensland continues its preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mulpha Australia is accelerating investment in marine and tourism infrastructure. This includes the expansion of the superyacht arm at the Sanctuary Cove Marina, which will add 25 new superyacht berths and further cement the Show’s position as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest on-water boat show. This strategic enhancement is expected to draw increased numbers of international vessels, buyers, and high-value visitors to the region, strengthening Queensland’s reputation as an international boating and marine powerhouse.
The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is owned and operated by Mulpha Events and is proudly supported by destination partners, Tourism & Events Queensland, Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government.
For exhibitor information and exclusive announcements visit sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of Australia’s Boating Blockbuster – apply now to secure a place at the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
