Miami International Boat Show Showcases Life on the Water

Recognized as one of the world’s largest boating events, the Progressive® Insurance Miami International Boat Show® cruises into South Florida February 12-16, 2015, spanning three locations and showcasing thousands of the newest boats and products, plus features designed to entertain every type of boater.  Highlights of the 2015 boat show include the new outdoor Accessory Pavilion, on-the-water boat training, interactive workshops and hundreds of boat debuts - making the annual boat show THE place to buy a boat and experience the boating lifestyle.

“We are really looking forward to providing visitors from around the globe another year to discover the best of boating. With the addition of the Accessory Pavilion, more boats to shop and a wide selection of educational opportunities, there is no better place to outfit your new boat, trade in your old one or just enjoy the pleasures that come with being on the water with loved ones,” said Cathy Rick-Joule, vice president of Boat Shows at National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Highlights of the 2015 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show include:

Hundreds of boat debuts – Among the thousands of boats that will be on display, from entry-level family cruisers to luxury yachts and sailboats, several manufacturers will unveil their latest models at the show, including the Gunboat 55, Lagoon MY 630 and the Bali 4.5 Catamaran.

Gadgets and gizmos galore: New Accessory Pavilion – Showcasing thousands of the latest marine gadgets and gear, plus engines and electronics from more than 85 companies.

Power boat and sailing lessons: Discover Boating Hands-On Skills Training – A full schedule of one to three-hour hands-on, on-the-water workshops at Sea Isle Marina and Strictly Sail at Miamarina, designed for everyone from novices to pros.  All sessions are taught by USCG licensed captains and certified instructors.

Get set to sail: Sailing Simulator and more at Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside – On a virtual sailboat ride, a certified American Sailing Association small boat instructor will be on hand to offer free sailing lessons and the chance to experience how a boat reacts to the wind and waves without leaving the land. Visitors can also stop by the Vacation Basin to learn about getaways and exotic charter destinations for their next trip, or participate in dozens of free sailing seminars from world-renowned sailors.

Hook, line and sinker: Big Game Room – Visitors can celebrate the world of sport fishing at the legendary Big Game Room featuring daily seminars, hundreds of sport fishing accessories and apparel vendors, plus angling activities. Exhibitors include Pelagic, Inc., Carey Chen Marine, Guy Harvey and Art Old Harbor Outfitters, among hundreds of others.

The annual boat show takes place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Miamarina at Bayside and draws more than 100,000 enthusiasts from around the world, making it not only one of the premier destinations for boaters but also one of the most influential events for the industry.

For more information and advance ticket purchase, visit www.MiamiBoatShow.com.