Leigh-Smith Yachts celebrates 60 years at SCIBS 2025

Alaska 44 © Salty Dingo

A foundation exhibitor since the inaugural Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in 1989, the Leigh-Smith family is acknowledged among Australia's pioneers in boat sales and marina development.

The Leigh-Smith family has sold boats for 60 years. Led by patriarch the late Reg Leigh-Smith, they developed and built Runaway Bay Marina, which opened in 1979. In 1988, they sold the marina and set up shop at Sanctuary Cove as Leigh-Smith Cruiser Sales.

Over the decades, they also built and co-owned Gold Coast City Marina & Shipyard, which opened in 2000, and operated the facility until 2014, when they returned to Sanctuary Cove to represent Alaska, Hampton, Endurance, Vicem, and AvA motor yachts.

In 2025, Leigh-Smith Yachts proudly celebrates its 60th anniversary and will commemorate this milestone at SCIBS 2025, reaffirming its status as one of the show's longest-standing exhibitors.

Their impressive line-up will showcase the flagship range of Alaska Motor Yachts, a brand synonymous with timeless design, enduring quality, and overall cruising excellence. Visitors to SCIBS 2025 will have the opportunity to explore three of Alaska's most popular and proven sedan-style models: the Alaska 44, Alaska 47 and Alaska 49.

Compact yet uncompromising, the Alaska 44 Sedan is the perfect entry into the Alaska Motor Yachts range. Designed for effortless coastal cruising, the 44 offers timeless style, generous walkaround decks, and an intelligently configured interior that feels much larger than its size suggests. With two well-appointed cabins, a spacious saloon, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow through the aft galley and cockpit, the 44 is equally suited for weekend escapes or extended time on the water.

The Alaska 47 Sedan expands on the popular 44 platform, offering additional space and cruising capability while maintaining the same premium level of craftsmanship and finish. With a slightly longer hull and enhanced storage throughout, the 47 provides increased versatility for extended coastal cruising. Her generous saloon, full-beam entertainer's cockpit, and single-level layout deliver a relaxed, open feel, making her a standout option for those wanting more room without stepping up to a flybridge.

The Alaska 49 is designed for serious cruisers seeking more volume and long-range capability, all while enjoying the same timeless styling and refined finish found throughout the Alaska lineup. Offering two spacious cabins, expanded living areas, and exceptional deck space, the 49 is ideal for entertaining or extended adventures. Her purposeful design and classic lines make her the ultimate expression of Alaska's coastal cruising pedigree.

These diverse models represent the best of Alaska's semi-custom yacht building ethos — combining classic lines with modern engineering to deliver vessels that are as beautiful as they are capable.

Having recently celebrated the delivery of the 100th Alaska Motor Yacht to Australasia, Leigh-Smith Yachts is excited to announce that Hull #102 is now available to order, with delivery scheduled for 2026. This next chapter in the Alaska story is the perfect opportunity for discerning buyers to design and build a custom vessel tailored to their cruising lifestyle.

With an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, Alaska Motor Yachts continues to be a cornerstone of the Leigh-Smith Yachts offering. From coastal cruising to extended passagemaking, Alaska yachts deliver the perfect balance of comfort, efficiency, cruising abilities.

In addition to the Alaska range, Leigh-Smith Yachts will also feature a curated selection of luxury pre-owned yachts, offering exceptional opportunities for buyers looking to enter or upgrade within the world of premium motor yachts.

"For six decades, our family has been committed to delivering world-class yachting experiences, and there's no better place to celebrate than SCIBS," said Ryan Leigh-Smith, Director of Leigh-Smith Yachts.

"Our showcase at SCIBS 2025 is all about honouring legacy and looking forward with optimism and enthusiasm, especially with the continued success of Alaska Motor Yachts."

As always, Leigh-Smith Yachts will host exclusive events and private viewings during the show, giving clients the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship, performance, and service that define the Leigh-Smith brand.

Join Leigh-Smith Yachts at SCIBS 2025, 22 to 25 May on Queensland's Gold Coast, and discover why Alaska Motor Yachts remains a true icon of luxury boating — proudly presented by a family business 60 years in the making.

www.leigh-smith.com