Melbourne Boat Show in Docklands

The Melbourne Boat Show returned to New Quay Promenade and Harbour Esplanade in Docklands during October for the third year in a row.

Showcasing a range of waterfront boating activities, family entertainment, seafood cooking demonstrations and guest speaker presentations, the 2024 Boat Show spanned four full days from October 17 to 20.

This year the Boat Show celebrated its 62nd annual iteration.

With free entry and no bookings required, Victoria’s premier boating event hosted more than 100 exhibitors and brands and attracted thousands of water sport enthusiasts.

On display were cruising yachts, ski boats, pontoons and jet skis, as well as live food and cookery sessions, and rows of marquees and kiosks set out beside Victoria Harbour.

This year there were new attractions, including a heritage and wooden boat precinct and the highly popular cooking and food service area. Visitors also saw a selection of tall ships, steamboats and beautifully restored classic wooden vessels at the Boat Show.

With a family-oriented environment in mind, parents were able to bring their children to the dedicated Suzuki Marine Kidz entertainment zone. Many visitors also watched the rig rundown boat competition, while enjoying their day out with live music and plenty of prizes up for grabs.

Each year the Boat Show brings together those who enjoy the boating and fishing lifestyle as well as those who are curious to learn more about water-based fun. With live talks on the Honda Marine stage, guest speakers discussed catching and eating King George whiting, southern calamari, Murray cod, snapper and southern bluefin tuna.

The event came along at an ideal time as Melbourne has entered the 2024/25 boating season. Last year’s Boat Show attracted more than 42,500 visitors.

Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) CEO Steve Walker said that the Boat Show had “traditionally been an indoor event at the Melbourne Convention Centre.

“In 2022 it transitioned to outdoor,” he said.

“It’s been quite a success in that lifestyle, and it’s doubled in size since year one.”

“The Melbourne Boat Show brings a positive vibe to the community, it attracts visitors to Docklands and it [also] brings the Docklands community together,” Mr Walker said. 

“A lot of the locals come out and give positive affirmation about the event, and they are happy to get involved, too.” •