Boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and marine lifestyle lovers are set to gather for the inaugural Geelong Boat Show, taking place on the 15th and 16th of March at the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, Wangim Walk, Fairnie Park, and Transvaal Park. This exciting new addition to the Australian boat show circuit promises a unique boutique setting, featuring everything from high-performance boat exhibits to thrilling on-water experiences. The regional event is seen as complimenting the annual Melbourne Boat Show which is held in October.
A showcase of boats and marine lifestyle
The Geelong waterfront will come alive with a premier selection of boat dealers, marine businesses, and lifestyle exhibitors, all showcasing the latest in marine innovation. A stellar lineup of exhibitors includes Edencraft, Bar Crusher, Geelong Marine World, Portside Marine, Whittley Marine, Geelong Boating Centre, Aussie Boat Sales, Boats & More, Eyacht, Port Phillip Boating Centre, KGM SsangYong, Sirocco, Sportsman Boats, RAM, Club Marine, Boating Careers, Savwinch, and many more.
In addition to these well-known names, a strong contingent of boat builders will be present, ensuring visitors have a chance to explore a variety of high-quality vessels, from offshore fishing boats to luxurious day cruisers. Axopar, Seafarer, Ital Boats, and Sleipner will be bringing their latest models, while Mercury and Honda will be showcasing the latest advancements in marine propulsion.
A particularly exciting aspect of the show is the presence of New Zealand boat builders, who continue to make waves in the international market with their innovation and craftsmanship. Extreme Boats, Haines Hunter, White Pointer, and Stabicraft will be among the exhibitors, each bringing a distinct offering tailored for both inshore and offshore conditions.
Extreme Boats
Extreme Boats are highly regarded for their robust construction using high-quality marine grade aluminium, providing excellent durability and stability, making them a reliable choice for challenging sea conditions while offering a customisable design to suit various boating needs; they are also known for their strong reputation in New Zealand as a top manufacturer of aluminium boats with a focus on safety and predictable handling.
Haines Hunter Boats
Haines Hunter boats are widely recognised for their exceptional build quality, delivering a smooth, dry ride even in rough conditions thanks to their well-designed hulls, making them a popular choice for boaters who value stability and superior performance on the water; they are known for their artisan craftsmanship and extensive experience in boat building, resulting in a high level of durability and longevity.
White Pointer Boats
White Pointer boats are highly regarded for their custom-built design, prioritising stability, manoeuvrability, and excellent seakeeping abilities, making them a top choice for serious anglers seeking a comfortable and reliable boat for fishing in rough conditions, especially with their renowned ‘non-pounding hull’ design that delivers a smooth ride even in choppy waters; they are also known for their high-quality construction with fully welded aluminum hulls, ensuring durability and longevity.
Stabicraft
Stabicraft boats are highly regarded for their exceptional safety features, particularly their unique “Positive Buoyancy Chamber” design, which essentially acts as a life ring for the boat, making them incredibly stable and virtually unsinkable, allowing boaters to “Adventure with Confidence” in a wide range of conditions.
Show organisers are already warning that space will be at a premium, with boat displays filling Transvaal Square, Fairnie Park, Stony Pier Lane, and the near-full Royal Geelong Yacht Club (RGYC) marina. The marina and Wangim Walk will also accommodate additional berthing for sea trials and on-water demonstrations.
More than just boats: Experiences for all
Beyond the impressive showcase of boats, the Geelong Boat Show offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re an experienced boater, a fishing enthusiast, or simply love the marine lifestyle, there will be plenty to see and do:
Superboat racing will deliver high-speed action on the water, while sailing experiences will allow visitors to step aboard and feel the thrill of harnessing the wind. Seafood lovers will appreciate the cooking demonstrations, where top chefs will showcase the best ways to prepare fresh local catches. For those looking to get hands-on, paddle sports and casting clinics will provide an opportunity to test new skills, while the Coastguard safety displays will offer essential knowledge for anyone heading out on the water.
The combination of marine exhibits and lifestyle experiences ensures a family-friendly event with something for everyone.
