New dual-format approach mirrors Auckland’s twin show model
Sydney is steering into 2025 with a fresh take on its boat show calendar, confirming two major events under a new dual-format strategy. The Boating Industry Association (BIA), in partnership with event delivery partner Mulpha Events, has announced a split between a large-scale land-based expo in August and an on-water showcase in November — a setup that mirrors the Auckland model of separate indoor and on-water events.
The first event, the Sydney Boat Show, will be staged from 14–17 August 2025 at Sydney Showground in Sydney Olympic Park. This venue shift offers a larger footprint than the 2024 edition and will include both expansive indoor halls and substantial outdoor areas, aimed at accommodating a broader mix of exhibitors and product types.
Expect to see everything from small paddle craft through to large offshore-capable powerboats. The show’s land-based nature doesn’t mean static displays only — a giant indoor pool will provide a focal point for on-water demonstrations, safety sessions, and beginner boating experiences. There will be a strong emphasis on fishing, Australia’s most popular boating activity, with clinics, live demonstrations, and stage talks led by experts.
Beyond the consumer displays, the August show will also feature key stakeholder and government forums. Topics such as workforce development and marine trades will be discussed — timely, considering the industry’s current labour shortage across various technical fields. The sector employs over 35,000 Australians, yet demand for skilled workers remains high.
Venue costs and exhibitor packages are also being touted as more attractive this year, with full details set to be released on 23 April, including floor plans, marketing guidance, and registration information.
Three months later, from 13–16 November 2025, Sydney’s marine focus shifts to the Sydney International On-Water Boat Show, which will take place at Cockle Bay in Darling Harbour. This waterfront venue has long been a favourite for marine events, offering a prime platform for luxury yachts, high-performance boats, and alternative-fuel vessels to be displayed in their natural environment.
The November timing is no accident. Scheduled to coincide with Sydney’s warmer spring weather, the event promises a scenic and comfortable setting for buyers and industry professionals. Twilight viewings and waterfront activations will cater to both casual visitors and serious buyers looking to see boats in full working display.
Unlike the August show, the on-water format allows visitors to engage directly with boats on the water — ideal for those who want to see how vessels look and perform in real-time conditions. The November show also aims to attract global marine brands and lifestyle exhibitors, making it more of a premium experience, geared toward big-ticket buyers and international trade interest.
Together, the two shows represent a broader rethink of how marine events are staged in Sydney, aiming to provide more focused, segmented experiences depending on the audience. The BIA’s move comes in response to both exhibitor feedback and international trends, acknowledging that land-based and on-water shows each offer unique value and different engagement styles.
The announcement is also a reminder of Australia’s deep connection with boating. With more than 85 per cent of the population living within 50 kilometres of the coast and over 6 million people participating in boating each year, the country’s $10.12 billion marine industry is rooted in everyday recreational life. Notably, around three-quarters of marine businesses are small, family-run operations supporting local communities — a fact mirrored across the Tasman.
For New Zealand readers familiar with the dual format of the Auckland Boat Show and Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, this two-part Sydney schedule will feel familiar. The approach allows for wider participation across different parts of the sector, while also giving the public two chances to engage with the industry in different ways — whether they’re looking to kit out their tinny or step aboard a luxury cruiser.
