Positive Show Results for the 2018 Sydney International Boat Show and “above expectations” says Boating Industry Association.

 

Organisers claim positive show result despite 5% fall in visitor numbers.

 

The Sydney International Boat Show for 2018 closed on Monday this week after five days of great weather and plenty of activity on the marina and in the exhibition halls.

 

 

For its second appearance at the ICC Sydney venue at Darling Harbour, the show drew a total crowd of 59,753 visitors, 3,292 fewer than the 63,045 visitors last year, a 5% fall.

Show organisers, the Boating Industry Association (BIA), said the lower number this year was still “above expectation”.

 

 

“Both history and research showed that an element of last year’s visitors were those inquisitive about the new facility,” said Domenic Genua, BIA event manager. “This bodes well for the show and is a testament to the importance of the event with the rebound from our days at Glebe Island continuing.”

 

 

During the three years the show was held using dual venues at Glebe Island and Darling Harbour, it drew around 50,000 visitors per year.

President of the BIA, Alan Blake said that changes to the venue layout and signage to assist with visitor traffic flow at the show had had a “positive impact”.

“Along with the impressive industry response presenting A class exhibits, visitors to the show enjoyed an exceptional opportunity to satisfy their expectations and to help make their time on the water safer and more fun.”

 

 

 

“Overall, a positive result for everyone,” added Genua.

The BIA presented several awards to exhibitors for the best displays and stands at this year’s show. Stands were assessed on a range of criteria including staff, signage, stand concept, stand appeal, lighting and access.

 

 

The best overall stand award went to Yamaha which was also named as best hall display. Riviera picked up the best marina display award while Road Tech Marine was named as best chandlery exhibit, Frog Dive won best dive exhibit, Hella Marine was best small exhibit, Mercury Marine was best engine exhibit and TR Marine best boating display.

There were also special mentions for Sealegs, Hobie, Garmin, Short Marine, Insinc, Mastercraft, Beneteau and Maritimo.

 

 

Credit: Copy by Marine Business

Photos: BIA, Standen Marine and other. (Please email us for photo credit)

Video: Instagram User @cormacnsta