Aspiring and experienced boaters alike will flock to the Orange County Convention Center this weekend when the Orlando Boat Show returns to Central Florida.
The event, which runs from March 27 to 29, allows boat enthusiasts of all backgrounds to browse 600 boats from 90 manufacturers. Although various boats and on-site seminars specialize in fishing, the sport only captures a small portion of a large industry. Showgoers can browse a variety of boats, including bowriders, center consoles, deck boats, flats boats, pontoons, surf boats, and more.
“Central Florida is dominated by lakes and rivers, and the coast is 45 minutes to an hour away. Boating is a huge part of the Central Florida lifestyle,” said Jeff Husby, president of the Central Florida Marine Industry Association. “This is by far the largest show in Central Florida, and our show space continues to expand each year, bringing more dealers to the show and making it a more diverse show for consumers.”
The Orlando Boat Show will also feature a trout pond for younger visitors, as well as performances from Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel, a pirate magician and a mermaid on stilts. Visitors can learn about fishing at seminars with full-time guide Captain Jim Ross, who provides a half-day fishing experience with each lecture. Live music will also be part of the show for the first time.
The Orlando Boat Show serves as a casual outing for the whole family, but serious boat buyers can also purchase perks at the event.
“It’s very much a buyer’s market right now,” Husby said. “There are now very strong incentives and rebates for manufacturers and a very good deal for consumers.”
Florida remains the nation’s leading state in recreational boating, with an annual economic footprint of $31.3 billion and supporting more than 100,000 jobs, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. More than 1 million registered recreational vessels sail the Sunshine State’s waterways.
“Boating is a great way to create family traditions and memories on the water with people you love spending time with,” Husby said. “In Central Florida, it’s a great activity to do in spring, summer, fall, and actually year-round.”
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If you go
The Orlando Boat Show will be held at 9800 International Drive in Orlando on March 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and March 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Children 12 and under, veterans and active duty military are admitted free. On-site convention center parking is $10. For more information and tickets, visit orlandoboatshow.com.
