The 63rd Melbourne Boat Show has concluded at Docklands and has been hailed as one of the most successful editions in its long history. Over four days, close to 39,000 visitors filled the waterfront precinct, generating sales, brand exposure, and a vibrant celebration of the boating lifestyle.
Spanning more than 1.2 kilometres of waterfront and marina displays, the show featured over 100 exhibitors, multiple entertainment activations, and a festive atmosphere supported by perfect spring weather. The event not only boosted sales for boat dealers but also created an important showcase for marine businesses and highlighted boating as a lifestyle choice for thousands of Victorians.
Strong Industry and Visitor Enthusiasm
Organised by the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV), the event drew strong praise from exhibitors and attendees alike. BIAV CEO Steve Walker said the event team, led by Katrina Muir and Mark Turnbull, “did a brilliant job to set the scene,” while exhibitors delivered a world-class showcase across the four days. Visitors, arriving in large numbers especially over the weekend, provided the event with “a lot of positive energy.”
Exhibitors reported better-than-expected results in both sales and engagement. Neil Webster of Sirocco/BRIG confirmed, “The interest has been very strong. We’ve sold boats; it’s way beyond my expectations.” Michelle Brittain of Mullies Marine and Geelong Marine World echoed these sentiments, citing “plenty of foot traffic” and successful sales outcomes.
For new exhibitors like Stu Wilson from Nautique Central, the Melbourne Boat Show was an impressive debut. “It’s been a really busy show for us. A steady stream of people all weekend long, honestly, we couldn’t be happier,” he said. Veteran exhibitor Alan Whittley of Whittley Marine concluded that “the Boat Show has delivered 100%” and looked forward to continuing at Docklands in 2026.
Key Highlights of Melbourne Boat Show 2025
- Record Attendance: Almost 39,000 visitors across four days.
- Government Backing: Minister for Outdoor Recreation (Boating) Steve Dimopoulos opened the show and pledged four years of government support for BIAV’s two annual shows.
- Exhibitor Success: Multiple businesses reported significant sales, lead generation, and brand exposure.
- Media Reach: Extensive coverage on television, radio, print, and social media, including six Weekend Sunrise live crosses.
- Networking Growth: The Women on Water networking event set new records for attendance and participation.
- Industry Recognition: Sundance Marine and JV Marine received Best Exhibit Awards (on-water and on-land, respectively).
- Skills Development: Apprentice of the Year Awards recognised future leaders in the marine industry.
These elements combined to make the 2025 Melbourne Boat Show not just an industry event but also a major CBD attraction that engaged boating enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Economic and Promotional Impact
The Melbourne Boat Show continues to be a cornerstone event for Victoria’s marine sector, driving economic benefits through direct sales, dealership traffic, and future sea trials. For businesses, the event provided unmatched opportunities for product exposure, consumer education, and long-term relationship building.
BIAV President Scott O’Hare noted that even non-boating audiences were aware of the event through its media presence, strengthening the visibility of the marine industry across the broader community. “It was great to hear from non-industry people that they saw the boat show, or knew it was on,” he said.
Industry experts suggest that the Melbourne Boat Show contributes significantly to the summer boating season, with sales conversions often finalised in the weeks following the event. Dealers expect an increase in showroom visits and sea trials leading into the peak recreational season, further solidifying the show’s role in stimulating industry activity.
Table: Key Figures from Melbourne Boat Show 2025
| Category | 2025 Results | Industry Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance | ~39,000 visitors | Strong consumer demand and engagement |
| Exhibitors | 100+ | Diverse product showcase across all segments |
| Government Commitment | 4-year support pledge | Long-term event stability and growth |
| Media Coverage | TV, radio, print, social media | Nationwide exposure for marine industry |
| Exhibitor Awards | Sundance Marine, JV Marine | Recognition of innovation and display quality |
| Networking Milestones | Record Women on Water event | Expanding diversity and inclusion in boating |
| Future Expansion | New Gippsland Lakes Boat Show (2026) | Regional growth opportunities for exhibitors |
Looking Ahead: Gippsland Lakes and Melbourne 2026
With 2025 wrapped up successfully, BIAV is already preparing for the next major events. A newly announced Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will debut from 27 February to 1 March 2026 in Paynesville, alongside the Classic Boat Rally. Early indications show strong exhibitor interest, suggesting this regional showcase could become a valuable addition to the calendar.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Melbourne Boat Show will return to Docklands in mid-October, marking the fifth year at the waterfront venue. With several 2025 exhibitors already requesting additional space, expectations are high for another record-setting event.
The combination of government backing, industry enthusiasm, and consumer demand positions Melbourne as a leading hub for marine lifestyle promotion and boating industry growth.
Conclusion
The 2025 Melbourne Boat Show reinforced its importance as both a commercial platform and a lifestyle event. With high attendance, strong sales, and unprecedented media exposure, it has set the standard for future shows. The expansion into Gippsland Lakes and the return to Docklands in 2026 underscore a long-term growth trajectory for Victoria’s boating sector.
For industry players, the show delivered more than sales—it built community, showcased innovation, and created momentum that will carry through the boating season and beyond. For boating enthusiasts, it offered a vibrant celebration of the lifestyle and a clear sign that the future of marine recreation in Australia is brighter than ever.
Trending FAQ
Q1: How many people attended the Melbourne Boat Show 2025?
Nearly 39,000 visitors attended the four-day event at Docklands.
Q2: Which companies won Best Exhibit Awards this year?
Sundance Marine won the on-water award, while JV Marine secured the on-land recognition.
Q3: What was the government’s role in the 2025 event?
Minister Steve Dimopoulos officially opened the show and announced a four-year government support package for BIAV’s annual boat shows.
Q4: What new event has been added to the BIAV calendar?
The Gippsland Lakes Boat Show will debut in Paynesville from 27 February to 1 March 2026.
Q5: When will the Melbourne Boat Show return in 2026?
The 64th edition will return to Docklands in mid-October 2026, marking its fifth year at the venue.
