By Melanie Winters
The South Carolina Marine Association and the Charleston City Marina Co. came to an agreement that eliminates the problem of competing boat shows this spring.
The trade association agreed to cancel its eighth annual in-water show, which had been scheduled for April 10-13 at the new St. Johns Yacht Harbor on the Stono River. This means City Marina’s new Charleston In-Water Boat Show, to be held April 17-20 at Brittlebank Park and the Bristol Marina, will be the Low Country’s only in-water boat show this spring.
Both sides expressed relief that the conflict has been settled.
“I think we’re all excited about it because it resolves the problem of two boat shows in one city,” said Nick McGinty, general manager of City Marina Co., in a telephone interview this morning.
“It took a big load off my mind,” says SCMA executive director Suzi DuRant. “It let’s us go back to focusing on legislation and education that benefits our members.”
DuRant said the agreement stipulates that SCMA will not hold an in-water show for the next five years from March through July within a 60-mile radius of Charleston. In exchange, City Marina Co. agreed to pay SCMA for the docks the association purchased to hold its show.
Furthermore, the SCMA will have a booth at the show, and City Marina Co.’s show management division, Maritime Events, agreed to help the association with fundraising efforts.
The controversy sprung up last year when City Marina Co., a private enterprise, announced plans to hold its boat show a week after the association’s existing show. The former South Carolina In-Water Boat Show originated in 1999 under the ownership of the Marine Retailers Association of America. The SCMA had rights to the show from 2001-2007. The show has been located at several locations since its beginning.
The changing venue is what prompted City Marina Co. to produce a new event. Company officials said at the time that area dealers wanted a more consistent venue.
The SCMA had worried that the new show would draw dealers and buyers alike from its own event. Proceeds from the SCMA show allowed the association to retain a lobbyist in the state capitol, keep members up to date on regulatory and legislative issues that affect boating, and provide educational opportunities.
In the months that followed, SCMA executives met with representatives of the City Marina and Maritime Events to work out an agreement.
“We had very good negotiations,” said McGinty. “We’re all on good terms moving forward.”
Maritime Events, Bristol Marina and the city of Charleston have made a 10-year commitment to host the Charleston In-Water Boat Show at Brittlebank Park and the Bristol Marina.
“I am confident Maritime Events will design a first class show that will continue to provide future opportunities and successes for the marine association and its membership,” said SCMA president Bob Pilcher, in a statement.
“Like the SCMA, we value the role that boat shows play in the growth of our industry,” said Robbie Freeman, chairman of the Charleston In-Water Boat Show. “The goal of the Charleston show is to showcase our exhibitors to potential buyers, build excitement about boating, and grow into a top East Coast event
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Charleston Settles on a Single Boat Show
Thursday, February 14, 2008
The Miami International Boat Show opens today
The official site for the Miami International Boat Show features details about this year's show.
According to the Miami International Boat Show site...
The Miami International Boat Show will return for its 67 th run, Feb. 14-18, 2008, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and Miamarina at Bayside.
The World's Greatest Boat Show brings together more than 2,200 exhibitors showcasing the latest powerboats, sail boats, engines and marine electronics and accessories for the 2008 boating season. Interactive seminars and demonstrations will help visitors learn about the boating lifestyle and enhance time spent out on the water.
"The Miami show is the premier event for boat-industry manufacturers and dealers to introduce new products and kick-start sales for the upcoming season," said Cathy Rick-Joule, vice president of southern shows with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which produces the Miami show.
"Consumers from across the United States and as far away as Japan travel to Miami for this annual gathering of boating enthusiasts, where the best buys of the season can be found."
Source: Miami International Boat Show
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Fearless Yachts and Porsche Design Studio boats to be showcased at Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show
Fearless Yachts has announced that during the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show, Fearless Yachts and The St. Regis in Ft. Lauderdale will showcase the Fearless models of their 28 and 44 foot yachts in a pre-reserved area of the guest lobby of the St. Regis from Thursday to Monday.
This area will be known as the Porsche Fearless Lounge. There will also be brand-new Porsche Cayenne’s on the property to transport the guests to view the newest of the Fearless 28 at the Boat Show.
Boat manufacturer, Fearless Yachts is collaborating with Porsche Design Studio to create a series of boats and mega-yachts sized from 28 feet to 150 feet in length. Designed by Roland Heiller who is credited for the design of the Porsche Carrera GT, the hull of each boat will be seamless which is exclusive to the brand.
According to Fearless Yachts...
This is the ultimate accessory for the modern man. The Fearless brand sets out to bring something different to the marketplace by launching a luxury custom boat and yacht collection that blends performance, style, and design.
The Fearless 28 model, which travels at speeds up to 80MPH and has a sticker price of $300K, made its debut this past January. This coming January, the Fearless 44 will be revealed at the Miami International Boat Show.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
International Talk Like a Pirate Day
We've been informed that today is International Talk Like a Pirate Day, and a perfect time to share this photo of the The Moody Crewe who were at the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo & SailFest this past weekend.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Volvo Marine Engines and IPS at the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo & SailFest
One of the engines on display at the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo & SailFest was the 5.7 GXi by Volvo Penta.
Volvo's website describes the 5.7 GXi a cast-iron V-8 with electronic fuel injection, low emissions and responsive acceleration.
Here's a comparison between the fuel filter on the 5.7 GXi and a regular fuel filter. The longer filter is a water separating fuel filter, which is recommended when using ethanol fuel.
The oil filter on the 5.7 GXi is also easy to remove and service.
The Volvo Penta booth also featured a demo of Volvo's IPS joystick, which allows you to park your boat in a dock almost as easy as you can drive your car in a parking space.
Volvo's IPS system has the propellers facing forward, pulling the boat through the water the same way aircraft propellers pull a plane through the air. The advantage is that diesel noise and exhaust are reduced.
RESOURCES
- You can learn more about Volvo Penta engines on the Volvo Marine web site.
- Boats on Boat Trader Online with Volvo IPS
- Boats on Boat Trader Online with Volvo 5.7GXi engines
Friday, September 14, 2007
Boat Trader Online and Yacht Trader attend the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo and Sailfest in Norfolk
The Downtown Norfolk Waterfront is the site this weekend for the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo and Sailfest, running September 14th to 16th.
Attendees to the Boat Expo and Sailfest can board and buy the newest boats and accessories being introduced by dealers and manufacturers from around the world at Waterside Marina and Town Point Park.
Yacht Trader and Boat Trader Online are attending the show. Yacht Trader's Jeff Nelson shows of the latest issue of Yacht Trader.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Alexandria Bay hosts antique boat show
News10now.com features a story and video of the 30th annual vintage boat show in Alexandria Bay, New York.
If you have a preference for boats made from polished wood rather than fiberglass, you might want to check this out.
According to the story...
Each year, the show brings in anywhere from 60 to 70 antique boats. Some of them have been running the St. Lawrence River for 50 to even 75 years.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Upcoming boat shows for the Western United States
Sacramento Boat Show – 2007
March 7-11, 2007
Cal Expo
Sacramento, CA
Website: www.svmainc.com
Description:
Featuring over 400 boats from 8 feet to 45 feet and houseboats to 70 feet, this event is the place to find wakeboard and ski accessories as well as the largest selection of tournament style and family ski boats in the Sacramento Valley.
Tacoma Dome Boat Show – 2007
March 28-April 1, 2007
Tacoma Dome
Tacoma, WA
Website: www.tacomarvshow.com
Description:
The Tacoma Dome Boat Show features over 8 acres of boats, booth after booth of marine electronics, water sports accessories, motors, trailers, brokerages and resort harbors to tempt old salts and new comers alike.
15th Annual Orange County Boat Show
April 12-15, 2007
Anaheim Convention Center
Anaheim, CA
Website: www.orangecountyboatshow.com
Description:
The Orange County Boat Show is jammed packed with over five acres of family runabouts, ski boats, fishing boats, pontoons, high performance sportboats, cruisers and PWCs all under one roof.
Strictly Sail Pacific
April 18-22, 2007
Jack London Square
Oakland, CA
Website: www.strictlysailpacific.com
Description:
Where else on the West Coast can you see so many sailboats in a day? Coastal cruisers, small dinghies, multihulls, racer/cruisers, and boats built to go the distance offshore. If you’re in the market to buy this year, a trip to Strictly Sail gives you valuable one-on-one time with builders and dealers. If you’re not in the market to buy this year, come to browse and start to dream.
Upcoming boat shows for the Southern United States
Houseboat Expo East 2007
March 2-4, 2007
Kentucky Fair & Expo Center
Louisville, KY
Website: www.houseboatexpo.com
Description:
The largest exhibit of house boats! Manufacturers will be on hand to answer your questions and guide you through some of the latest models that include brand new innovations and accessories.
Florida State Boat Expo – 2007
March 15-18, 2007
Florida State Fairgrounds
Tampa, FL
Website: www.centralfloridaboatshow.com
Description:
Meet NFL player Mike Alstott and register to win a Sea Doo or a Cayman Islands getaway.
Savannah International Boat Show
March 30-April 1, 2007
The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center
Savannah, GA
Website: www.savannahinternationalboatshow.com
Description:
The Largest In-Water and Indoor Boat Show from North Carolina to North Florida with hundreds of boats on display!
Pensacola Boat Show 2007
April 20-22, 2007
Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds
Pensacola, FL
Website: www.gulfcoastshows.com
Description:
The largest show in the Florida panhandle region!
Upcoming boat shows for the Rocky Mountain region of the United States
Colorado RV, Sports, Boat & Travel Show – 2007
March 1-4, 2007
National Western Complex
Denver, CO
Website: www.bigasalloutdoors.com
Description:
The 2007 Show features the Lumberjills, women timber sports athletes competing in log rolling, axe throwing, crosscut sawing, hot sawing and underhand chopping. The Jills are led by Survivor: Panama's Timber Tina Sheer.
Reno Boat, Sport & RV Show – 2007
March 1-4, 2007
Reno Sparks Convention Center
Reno, NV
Website: www.bigshows.com
Description:
Hundreds of boats, marine products and services are offered to the boat enthusiast at the 35th Annual Boat, Sport and RV show. Whether you’re a family boater or a seasoned fisherman, you will find what you’re looking for at this show!
International Sportsmen's Expo Salt Lake City – 2007
March 15-18, 2007
South Towne Expo Center
Sandy, UT
Website: www.sportsexpos.com
Description:
The Salt Lake City ISE is the combination of a fishing show, fly fishing show, hunting show and travel show all under one roof.
Upcoming boat shows for the Midwest United States
12th Annual Lansing Boat and Fishing Show – 2007
March 8-11, 2007
Lansing Center
Lansing, MI
Website: www.showspan.com/lcs
Description:
Challenge yourself with our indoor trout pond, see Twiggy the water skiing squirrel and enter to win a 175 Bayliner runabout.
Cleveland Sport, Travel & Outdoor Show – 2007
March 14-18, 2007
International Exposition (I-X) Center
Cleveland, OH
Website: sportandtravel.com/cleveland
Description:
The largest outdoor show in Ohio.
62nd Annual Grand Rapids Ultimate Sport & RV Show
March 15-18, 2007
DeVos Place
Grand Rapids, MI
Website: www.showspan.com/gcs
Description:
For the first time ever, DeVos Place will be home to the huge indoor lake. With over 110,000 gallons of water, this lake provides the Ultimate opportunity for seminar leaders to present from fully rigged fishing boats.
Northwest Sportshow
March 27-April 1, 2007
Minneapolis Convention Center
Minneapolis, MN
Website: www.northwestsportshow.com
Description:
Don’t miss this 40-foot-long giant aquarium filled with 5,000 gallons of water and stocked with a variety of native fish. Also, visit our indoor pond and let the kids participate in our Adventure Trail Pass program for a prize.
Upcoming boat shows for the Mid-Atlantic United States
World Fishing & Outdoor Exposition
March 1-4, 2007
SUNY Rockland Community College Field House
Suffern, NY
Website: www.sportshows.com/Suffern/suffmain.htm
Description:
This is the only sport show in the metro New York area with all the major fishing tackle manufacturers. Take part in our seminars and our fun competitions.
3rd Annual Tidewater Boat Show
March 2-4, 2007
Hampton Roads Convention Center
Hampton, VA
Website: www.agievents.com/shows/display.cfm
Description:
With more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, view the latest power boat models and features, plus shop around for financing, insurance and storage options.
12th Annual National Capital Boat Show
March 9-11, 2007
Dulles Expo Center
Chantilly, VA
Website: www.agievents.com/shows/display.cfm
Description:
Serving the greater DC area, this show has the largest variety of boats, accessories and experts to answer any questions you might have.
Saltwater Fishing Expo 2007
March 16-18, 2007
Garden State Exhibit Center
Somerset, NJ
Website: www.sportshows.com/Somerset/somfeat.htm
Description:
See the mount of the largest striper ever caught (92 lbs!), take part in the Wal-Mart Ranger Boat simulator and take part in our many saltwater fishing seminars.
Upcoming boat shows for the Northeast United States
Central New England Boat Show – 2007
March 16-18, 2007
DCU Center
Worcester, MA
Website: www.worcesterboatshow.com
Description:
More than 40 exhibitors will showcase their latest boat models, features and services.
New England Salt Water Fishing Show
March 20-April 1, 2007
Rhode Island Convention Center
Providence, RI
Website: www.nesaltwatershow.com
Descrption:
The largest saltwater fishing show in New England with more than 500 exhibitors.
Upcoming boat shows for Canada
Toronto Sportsmen's Show – 2007
March 14-18, 2007
Direct Energy Centre Exhibition Place
Toronto, ON, Canada
Website: www.sportsmensshows.com/Toronto
Description:
One of the largest sportsmen shows in Canada, this show features boats, ATVs, apparel, hunting showcases, dog shows and more.
Edmonton Boat & Sportsmen's Show – 2007
March 15-18, 2007
Agricom, Northlands Park
Edmonton, AB, Canada
Website: www.sportsmensshows.com/Edmonton
Description:
Western Canada's largest outdoors show since 1969, enter for a chance to win a Zebec boat, a houseboat vacation or stop by one of our hunting seminars.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Hit the hot bass fishing spots with Nitro's 591 performance bass boat
This Nitro 591 performance bass boat was on display from Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World at The 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show. 
Getting to the hot fishing spot first is one of the big thrills of bass fishing, which is easy when you have a Mercury 150 Optimax to drive your boat.
Tracker boats have been described of having dashboards and controls that are more like a sports car than a boat. You can read more about the 591 on the Tracker Boats site.
The 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show continues through February 11th at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Fountain Lightning makes big impression at boat show
This 2007 Fountain 38' Lighting from Bluewater Yacht Sales was a big attention-grabber at the 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show.
The graphic style on this particular Fountain boat is called Crossfire Redzone.
Even the dash was a flash of red, featuring heavy duty Livorsi gauges w/integrated warning lights, and GPS speedometer.
The Fountain Lighting on display had the engine compartment open, giving a glimpse of the Twin Mercury 525 EFI w/ Bravo 1-XR/SSM/ITS that drive the boat.
The 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show continues through February 11th at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Boat Trader Online attends the 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show
The 54th Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show is under way at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virgina Beach, Virginia. This show is the largest indoor boat show in the State 
Glenn Edwards and Carl Brown were there on Sunday at the Boat Trader Online booth.
The show continues through February 11th. Boat Trader Insider will be showing off some of the boats and gear on display in coming posts.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Upcoming boat shows for Canada
6th Annual Calgary Boating Expo
Feb 1-4, 2007
Calgary TELUS Convention Centre
Calgary, AB Canada
www.calgaryboatingexpo.com
Description:
Calgary’s only one-stop shop for marine enthusiasts with over 24 exhibitors.
Vancouver International Boat ShowFeb 7-11, 2007
BC Place Stadium and False Creek Yacht Club
Vancouver, BC Canada
www.vancouverboatshow.ca
Description:
For the first time in Canada, Rail Jam makes its way to the Vancouver International Boat Show. Featuring North America’s top pro-wakeboarders (including Canada’s Rusty Malinoski), watch incredible tricks from a mere 10 feet away.
Upcoming boat shows for the Mid-Atlantic Region
Here is a list of upcoming boat shows for the Mid-Atlantic Region
46th Annual Washington, D.C. Boat Show
Feb 15-19, 2007
Washington Convention Center
Washington, D.C.
www.washingtonboatshow.com
Description:
A tradition for over 46 years, the Washington Boat Show features 500+ boats, 350,000 square feet of space, 9+ acres of show, hundreds of booths and miles of aisles, all in one building.
Atlantic City International Power Boat Show
Jan 31-Feb 4, 2007
Atlantic City Convention Center
Atlantic City, NJ
www.acboatshow.com
Description:
Test your boat docking skills using a 4’ Diesel Sounding Sport Fisherman in a custom 10’X 20’ pool complete with channel markers and marina. Compete against the clock and others using twin engine throttles to maneuver the boat to the slip. Do your best to back the boat into the slip and then to the finish line. Total elapsed time and penalty points for pier contact are compiled to determine your score. Good luck! www.dockingchallenge.com.
Central New York Boat Show and Sale
Feb 14-18, 2007
New York State Fairgrounds
Syracuse, NY
www.cnyboatshow.com
Description:
The Central New York Boat Show and Sale features over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space, over 500 new boats on display in three buildings and offers free parking and shuttle services.
Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show
Feb 3-11, 2007
State Farm Show Complex
Harrisburg, PA
www.easternsportsshow.com
Description:
Shop the largest outdoor sports show in North America. If you like to hunt, fish, camp or participate in other outdoor sports, you can find all of the newest products, equipment, and vehicles--all under one roof for you to see, touch and compare.
Upcoming boat shows in the Midwest United States
53rd Annual Kansas Sports, Boat & Travel Show
Feb 15-18, 2007
Kansas Coliseum
Valley Center, KS
www.kansassportsshow.com
Description:
Your complete outdoor and travel show! Find boat dealers and accessories, hunting products and services, rv dealers and accessories, ATV/motorcycle/PWC dealers, trailers, travel destinations and more.
49th Annual Detroit Boat Show
Feb 10-18, 2007
Cobo Exhibition Center
Detroit, MI
www.DetroitBoatShow.net
Description:
See more than 1000 boats from 10 feet to 50 feet in length at the Detroit Boat Show. See boats for fishing, skiing, cruising, pontooning, and everything in between in 500,000 square feet of show space.
St. Louis Boat & Sportshow
Feb 6-11, 2007
America’s Center and Edward Jones Dome
St. Louis, MO
www.stlouisboatshow.com
Description:
The St. Louis Boat & Sportshow features the Travelin' Fish Tank, a 12-foot tall, 40-foot long glass mobile aquariums, stocked with fish, so your audiences can actually see fish strike the lure at professional casting demonstrations! Also, check out the antique boat display.
Ohio Boat & RV Show
Feb 3-4, 2007
Ohio Expo Center
Columbus, OH
http://www.ohioboatandrvshow.com/
Description:
The Ohio Boat & RV Show is so large, it needs two buildings to fit everything. Compare different boats and comparison shop in one location, plus take advantage of our informative exhibits on everything from how animals survive in the winter to great camping meal tips.
