PHOTO VIA ORLANDO BOAT SHOW
The Orlando Boat Show (Website) will return to the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse August 28-30, showing off more than 600 boats from over 85 boat lines.
The show is presented by the Marine Industry Association of Central Florida (MIACF) and will run Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.The show features bowriders, center consoles, deck boats, flats boats, freshwater fishing boats, jet boats, pontoons, and surf boats. Dealers and manufacturers will offer limited-time show pricing and incentives, including extended warranties, service packages, waived dockage, and upgraded electronics and accessory bundles.
“The Orlando Boat Show brings the boating community together at an ideal time of year,” said Jeff Husby, owner of Regal & Nautique Orlando and president of MIACF, according to the official press release. “Visitors can explore an exceptional variety of boats, learn from knowledgeable local dealers and start imagining how they want to enjoy the water in the months ahead.”
This year’s “Queen of the Show,” the largest and most luxurious boat on display, is the 377 LXF presented by Ultimate Marine. The luxury center console yacht features carbon epoxy construction, a dual-stepped hull, and a spacious cabin.
Several family-friendly activities are also included with admission if you can’t find a babysitter. Capt. Don Dingman, host of the television show “Hook the Future,” will lead a kids’ fishing clinic, with every participating child age 12 and under receiving a free fishing rod and reel while supplies last. Capt. Jim Ross will also host a fishing seminar, giving away a half-day fishing experience on the Indian River valued at $400.
Additional activities include photo opportunities with mermaid stilt walkers and pirate characters, a trout pond where kids can catch a live fish and receive a custom caricature, and a “Crack the Code” contest offering a chance to win a Yamaha SX190 jet boat sponsored by VForce Marine Orlando.
Daily tickets are $10 per person, available online or at the gate with cashless payment. Children 12 and under, veterans and active military with ID are admitted free. On-site parking is $10, cashless only.
