From James Bond to Ita Buttrose- Boat Show + Video

by Sarah Ruggiero on 23 May 2012 The 24 annual Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show commences tomorrow as Queensland’s premier yachting showcase. The four-day event promotes a marine lifestyle experience for all ages, with activities ranging from climbing aboard luxury vessels to exploring the latest boating fashion.

'Sanctuary Cove is known around the world as one of the best boat shows in the world,' said Phillip Shaw, events and operations manager.

With 325 exhibitors, the event boasts an expected turnout of over 40,000 people. Visitors can explore Australian engineered crafts or marvel at the vessels straight out of Hollywood.

'We have got a fantastic array of boats to see this year,' said Shaw.

In addition to catamarans and tinnies, visitors can enjoy various forms of entertainments, from live local bands, to daredevil water stunts. Shaw promises a crowd pleaser in the first-to Australia JetLev R200, a water-propelled backpack hoisting users 30 feet in the air.

'It’s something you’d see out of a James Bond movie,' said Shaw. 'It’s fantastic.'

Fresh from last year’s debut, Women on the Water has returned as the Show’s primary source of glitz and glamour.

'The ladies can ditch their husbands, leave them to look at the boats.' said Shaw. 'The ladies can relax, have a few champagnes and enjoy themselves,'

Featuring guest speaker Ita Buttrose, women can enjoy a range of luxuries while sailing the Coomera River, from ‘High Tea on the High Seas’, to manicures and fashion shows. Visitors can also attend cooking demonstrations and interior decorating seminars.

Although Shaw expects a positive outcome for men, women and children, the Show hasn’t been without its trials. With General Manager Sue Thompson sustaining a debilitating injury to her arm and currently recovering from reconstructive surgery in hospital, Shaw and his team are seeing increased pressure to perform and forcing each member to take on additional work.

With this being said, Shaw ensures this year’s show will deliver all around family fun.

'Look if you come to the boat show this year you’ll have a fantastic time,' said Shaw. 'There’s plenty of entertainment, the sun will be shining, so come along and enjoy yourselves and relax.'