From the Florida Gulf Coast to the unfrozen shores of Lake Erie, two of the final boat shows on the winter-spring circuit are set for this weekend and next.
The Suncoast Boat Show, presented by Boat Owners Warehouse, will dock at Marina Jack in downtown Sarasota’s Marina Plaza for three days beginning tomorrow (April 21-23).
The show boasts a large in-water fleet ranging from inflatables to motoryachts. It’s noted for having a large array of center consoles and fishboats on display. In addition, 150 exhibitors in waterfront tents will showcase electronics, accessories, clothing, jewelry, art and more.
In addition to live music, the show on Saturday and Sunday will include a “Hook the Future” youth fishing clinic with local TV host Capt. Don Dingman. His program includes a free rod and reel for each participant.
The show is produced by the U.S. Boat Shows division of Informa Markets.
Up Next: Ohio
The Progressive Catawba Island Boat Show is headed for the shores of Lake Erie next weekend, April 28-30.
Featuring more than 125 boats, from kayaks and sailboats to motoryachts, it’s the largest spring in-water show on the Great Lakes. And it has morphed into a popular boating season kick-off festival attracts more than 10,000 showgoers.
In addition to the in-water fleet, surrounded by a record 100 accessory exhibits with everything from gear to apparel, the show will include daily seminars, live music, a Kids Zone, food trucks, and wine and beer tastings.
The show has a focus on sailing, with an emphasis on attracting newcomers. A “Discover Sailing Center” with licensed captains will take prospective sailors out on the lake for a hands-on experience. The program has introduced nearly 800 sailors to the sport in recent years.
The event is held at the Catawba Island Club’s marina in Port Clinton, Ohio. It’s produced by the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association.
