Providence Boat Show to run Feb. 4-7
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The 23rd Annual Providence Boat Show, presented by Washington Trust, will be held at the Rhode Island Convention Center from Thursday, February 4 to Sunday, February 7. This year’s show, one of the largest indoor boat shows in New England, revives its most popular features, but with an updated layout for easier navigation through boat and gear displays, new special-interest areas, an expanded seminar program, and more
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), new boat sales rose by 8.5 percent in 2014. Industry data reveals a 10.5 percent rise in 2015 third-quarter sales, compared to last year, particularly in the categories of power craft featured at the Providence show.
“The Providence Boat Show is a great place for boat buyers to talk to dealers and brokers and make their decisions early in the season — and now that we have expanded to four days, there is plenty of opportunity to get one-on-one time with an expert,” says Wendy Mackie, CEO of the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA), which owns and manages the show. “But we cater to all kinds of boaters: those who simply want to fish from shore, or kayak, or charter a boat, or even those who have never stepped foot on a boat before. There is truly something for everyone.”
Support from Presenting Sponsor Washington Trust has helped organizers upgrade this four-day event to include highlights such as “Islands of Activity”; a movie premiere of the Disney feature “The Finest Hours”; sea-to-table demos with local chefs; an expansive fleet of powerboats, sailing dinghies, personal watercraft and paddle-powered craft; and several educational sessions.
Show organizers have incorporated new technology this year to attract younger and tech-savvy boaters. A large electronic Jumbotron will crown the center of the show, with rotating information and social media posts from all who use the hashtag #PBS2016. A new Providence Boat Show app, which has been designed to help showgoers get the most out of their visit to the show, will launch on January 22.
Sponsors joining Presenting Sponsor Washington Trust include Antigua & Barbuda Department of Tourism, Bitter End Yacht Club, North Rip Boats, Coastal Angler Magazine, Helly Hansen and Keel Vodka.
Hours: Thursday, February 4, 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday, February 5. 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday, February 6, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.; and Sunday, February 7, 10 a.m. 3 p.m. The show closes early Sunday to accommodate the Super Bowl.
Price: Adult one-day tickets are $12; children 12 and under are free. Special multi-day and family ticket packages are available online.
For more details on the show and to purchase tickets, visit www.providenceboatshow.com.
