The month of February is always busy for Boat Show’s across North America. The 2011 Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami, happening February 17-21.
The show is spread out over 3 locations;
Miami Beach Convention Center 1901 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach, FL 33139
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center 1635 N. Bayshore Drive Miami, FL 33132
Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside 400 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132
I recently caught up with Anne Thomas and I had an opportunity to ask a few questions about this year’s show;
1. What would you say is a must “how-to seminar” to take in during this year’s boat show?
This year, Strictly Sail Miami will host a daily series of nearly 100 FREE sailing seminars led by renowned experts, including Interactive Rigging Seminars where riggers will demonstrate their skills during daily sessions held on a boat. The new Discover Boating Resource Center will also have daily seminars, ideal for anyone looking to get into boating, or sharpen their skills.
2. What has always been or will be the “most popular exhibit”?
The 2011 show has exciting features for everyone, from experienced boaters and divers to families and anyone who ever dreamed of owning a boat. Some of this year’s big features include the Dive & Travel Harbor, the Discover Boating Resource Center, and the Big Game Room.
3. In your opinion the “number 1 attraction” of this year’s show”?
It’s almost impossible to pick just one – The Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail Miami is one of the largest boating events in the world, featuring thousands of the newest powerboats, sailboats, engines, electronics and marine accessories from more than 2,000 manufacturers from around the world.
4. Answer your most “frequently asked question” about this year’s show?
How can I get tickets? Tickets are available for purchase online and on-site during show days at the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center, and Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside.
Is boating really affordable? Boating is actually more budget-friendly than some may think. When compared to other leisure activities, dollar for dollar, boating is quite affordable. At the Miami International Boat Show’s Affordability Pavilion, shoppers can find a special showcase of boats that they can own for less than $250 per month.
Where can I park, and how much does it cost? Take advantage of the Boat Show’s courtesy shuttle buses running between all the locations. You can park right at the American Airlines Arena for a $10. Fee. This year they have added courtesy water taxi service.
5. What is “new” at this year’s show?
One of this year’s most exciting new features is the Dive & Travel Harbor, an area with dozens of booths showcasing scuba products and gear, travel, resorts, boating destinations and a ‘Be a Diver’ pool where visitors can learn to scuba dive.
Also new to the show this year is the Discover Boating Resource Center, an educational experience offering free boat rides, on-the-water training courses, and daily seminars.
Other new features include a Coastal/Outdoor Living Pavilion; the Time Bandit Offshore Racing Boat; appearances by Deadliest Catch’s star deck boss Russell Newberry, and Zac Sunderland, the youngest person to ever sail around the world; and much more.
