The 50th Annual Fort Myers Boat Show once again takes over the downtown riverfront Jan. 5 – 8.
While it was not realistic that the boat show could be held on its traditional November dates as result of Hurricane Ian, shifting to Jan. 5 – 8 makes perfect timing for the marine industry and for Southwest Florida.
Marine businesses are very supportive and exhibit space is nearly full. There will be no in-water displays as the City Yacht Basin suffered extensive damage and is closed. Several in-water exhibitors will be showing boats on land and others with larger boats plan booth displays inside the convention center for now. The Caloosa Sound Convention Center and adjacent Luminary Hotel suffered only minor damage, Centennial Park and streets along the waterfront are in good shape. Completion of the new amphitheater provides additional exhibit space to accommodate dealers who traditionally display in water.
Boats of all styles and sizes will be displayed. Hundreds of accessory exhibits feature everything from engines and electronics to boat lifts, boating services, fishing gear, clothing and just about anything else you might need on the water.
This is the largest display of boats, boating products, and services on Florida’s west coast, featuring over 500 boats on land, representing over 130 manufacturers. It is also one of the most beautiful settings for a show in the country. Set on the Caloosahatchee River, exhibits wind along the river, through Centennial Park and the newly renovated Caloosa Sound Convention Center and to the east along Edwards Drive. Whether you are in the market for a boat, looking to repower or upgrade your current boat, or just want to see what’s new, you will find what you are looking for at this show.
The Caloosa Sound Convention Center is full of boating products and marine accessories of all types and styles. Adjoining the newly renovated Convention Center is the beautiful Luminary Hotel. You can make a weekend of your visit, stay right on the show grounds at the new Luminary Hotel, enjoy a great show and the good times that the River District offers.
Admission is $18 for adults and children 15 and younger are free with a paid adult admission. Visitors are encouraged to skip the line and buy tickets online a goboatingflorida.com
The boat show entrance is at Bay Street and Heitman Street (next to the post office). Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 5 – 7 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 8.
