Boat show makes for pleasant day in sun, but yacht-buying mood is lukewarm

Event Listing: Ticket info, directions, more

The 25th Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show turns West Palm’s waterfront into a boater’s paradise this weekend when one of the top 10 boat shows in the country opens. The show covers more than 1 million square feet of space, both in the water and on land, featuring more than $350 million worth of boats, yachts and accessories. See hundreds of boats from 8-foot inflatables, power boats, fishing boats, center consoles, bow riders, personal watercraft to super yachts 150 feet and longer.
Exhibitors also will showcase marine accessories, fishing equipment, personal watercraft, an exotic car showcase and even clothing and jewelry.
Special events include:
- The Kids’ Fishing Clinics for ages 4-16 and feature marinelife experts teaching kids basic fishing techniques. Kids get a free rod and reel and T-shirt for completing the program. Register at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, includes admission to the show. Clinics meet at noon and 2 p.m.
– Ship Shape TV: Join the most popular figure in boating today, John Greviskis and the crew from Ship Shape TV, on site.
– The Xtreme Fishing Seminar Series for adult anglers presented by Florida Sport Fishing.
– Access to the cocktail barges and the Meyer Amphitheatre with live entertainment and family events.

When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
Where: West Palm Beach waterfront, Intracoastal Waterway along Flagler Drive between Banyan and Fern streets, in downtown West Palm Beach.
Tickets: $12 adults, $3 ages 6-15, online, in advance, or $14 adults, $5 ages 6-15 at the gate. Free for kids younger than 6.
Call: (800) 940-7642 or online at www.showmanagement.com