The 2025 Sydney Boat Show, held from August 14 to 17 at the Sydney Showground in Sydney Olympic Park, concluded with impressive results, attracting 23,525 attendees.
This year marked a significant evolution for the show, which moved to Sydney Olympic Park to enhance its 56-year legacy as a premier event in the Australian boating industry.
Spanning 21,000 square meters, the show featured over 130 exhibitors and 400 boats, along with thousands of accessories and cutting-edge technologies. Among the highlights were 16 new product launches, including four global debuts, solidifying the event’s status as a launchpad for innovation in the marine sector.
The relocation to Olympic Park was a strategic decision made to cater to industry feedback and broaden the event’s reach within Greater Sydney and regional NSW. The Sydney Boat Show underscores the critical role of the Australian boating industry, contributing more than $10 billion annually to the national economy and supporting over 35,000 jobs. The event itself is a significant economic driver, injecting hundreds of millions into the NSW economy and generating substantial sales.
Adam Smith, President of the Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA), expressed enthusiasm for the positive feedback from exhibitors and attendees. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among industry stakeholders to create a unified experience for visitors.
“By 2030, we anticipate six million Australians will engage in boating activities, with over one million registered boats and $20 billion spent yearly on boating and related activities,” Smith remarked, highlighting the future growth of the industry.
Key highlights from this year’s show included:
- Over 400 boats on display.
- A wide array of innovative products introduced to the market.
- The launch of the National Recreational Boating Statement, forecasting industry growth for 2030.
- The inaugural Outdoor Recreation Round Table, bringing together various outdoor sectors.
- Live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chef Miguel Maestre, showcasing local seafood.
- Engaging appearances by social media sensations, including TikTok and YouTube personalities, connecting with younger audiences.
Exhibitors reported a positive experience, with genuine interest from attendees. Josie Eastman of Edencraft noted strong leads from serious buyers, while Roy Newlan from Malibu Sydney remarked on the quality of foot traffic and purposeful interactions with potential customers. Alexander Schmaler-Loomes from Mak Marine highlighted successful sales across multiple boat brands, reflecting the overall success of the show.
The Sydney Boat Show was organized by the BIA in partnership with Mulpha Events, alongside key sponsors and partners, including Transport for NSW and Anaconda. This event was the first of two major gatherings under the BIA’s new dual-format strategy, with the next being the Sydney International On-Water Boat Show scheduled for November 13 to 16, 2025, at Darling Harbour. This upcoming show promises a vibrant atmosphere, featuring over 200 luxury vessels and extended hours to enjoy the stunning Sydney harbour lifestyle.
