Caribbean Boats will return to its Melbourne birthplace this October with the new 40F and 27F flybridge cruisers, marking the marque's first major hometown appearance since its revival under Maritimo ownership.
The 2026 Melbourne Boat Show runs 15–18 October at Docklands, with the 64th edition spreading across New Quay Promenade and Harbour Esplanade. Entry is free.
Both models made their world debut at Sanctuary Cove in May. The larger 40F pairs a modernised coachhouse and flybridge with the established deep V hull platform that built Caribbean's offshore reputation. Standard power is twin Volvo Penta D8 diesels on conventional shafts, though the first demonstration boat ran D11s to test performance limits. The design retains wide side decks, a substantial cockpit and 400 litres of freshwater capacity.
The smaller 27F moves and shortens the forward brow to reclaim roughly 300mm of interior space for the cabin and galley, while cleaner glazing freshens the exterior profile. Unlike its diesel-shaft sibling, the 27F runs twin outboards rather than shaft drive.
Caribbean traces its origins to 1958, when International Marine began building boats in Melbourne. The brand developed a strong following among offshore anglers and coastal cruisers on both sides of the Tasman before Maritimo acquired it and set about modernising the range rather than simply relaunching existing designs.
The show opens at noon on Thursday, 15 October. Hours are 10am–6pm Friday and Saturday, and 10am–4pm Sunday.
