Miami Int'l Boat Show Opens

9:56 AM Fri 13 Feb 2009 GMT

'Miami Boat Show'

The Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail runs through Monday, February 16 on Miami Beach, with a focus on discounting, encouraging finance for approved customers and various innovations to the program to drive interest in the boating lifestyle.

Boat and marine supply manufacturers and retailers will be charting a new course at this years 68th Annual Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail which opened Thursday on Miami Beach.

Because of its size, the show is spread out over three locations; the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center on North Bayshore Drive and the Miamarina at Bayside.

"Strictly Sail", the sailing section of the boat show features the best in mono- and multihull sailboats, plus the latest sailing accessories, sailing gear, charter information and the newest technologies to make you a better sailor - all from more than 200 exhibitors from around the globe and on display at Miamarina at Bayside.

Highlights of the 2009 Strictly Sail Miami include:

Discover Sailing Center
Visitors of all ages can experience the thrill of sailing under the supervision of an experienced sailor at the Discover Sailing Center, located on a floating dock between Piers A and B at Miamarina. These free half-hour lessons will introduce non-sailors to the sailing experience, to the pleasure and joys of the sport while remaining in a controlled environment.

Sailing Seminar Series
Hone your skills and receive tips for enhancing your sailing experience through a daily series of free seminars led by renowned experts. Seminars change frequently so be sure to monitor the schedule often.

Kids Aboard Boat Building Program
Children ages six and older can participate in free boat building workshops from noon to 6 p.m., Friday through Monday. Under the supervision of bilingual, U.S.-certified instructors, children will create two 10-foot wooden sailing yachts that will be launched at the show on Monday.

South African Pavilion Multi-Hull Lagoon
The South African Boatbuilders Business Council and the South African Consulate General return to Miami for the 4th year. With them they bring world-class sailing companies, including 6 large boats, marine accessories and tourist information from the Cape.

With their sales hurt by the recession, many vendors plan to focus on reduced prices and the family-friendly aspects of boating. Many retailers have said their sales have dropped nearly 35 percent in the last year. At this year's show, vendors say they'll be cutting deals, offering to customize boats and encourage qualified buyers to finance, despite the credit crisis.

A new showcase area for this year's show is the Affordability Pavillion which showcases boats that can be purchased for less than $300 per month.

More at www.miamiboatshow.com

by Jeni Bone

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Miami Int'l Boat Show Opens

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