The Miami Boat Show is one of the most important nautical shows in the world. Each year it attracts more than 100 thousand attendees from different countries. Among its visitors are experienced sailors in search of their next yacht or boat. But also a lot of tourists who simply enjoy a special weekend. In the Miami Boat Show you can appreciate the latest in navigation, diving and fishing, and it is possible to enjoy the best gastronomy. So that you can get the most out of this remarkable nautical event, we tell you its particularities and the most important activities it offers.
When and where does the Miami Boat Show take place?
It takes place during the long weekend of Presidents Day and for the last 80 years has been based in different parts of Miami. However, in recent editions it was installed in the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, on Virginia Key.
The Miami Boat Show is organized by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). For five days you can learn about the latest innovations in navigation exhibited by more than 1,000 suppliers.
To ensure transportation for visitors, free water taxis from Bayfront Park operate throughout the show. Free shuttle buses are available from Bayfront Park and American Airlines Arena. Those arriving on the high-speed train from Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach also have free transportation to the Miami Boat Show.
What activities does the event offer?
Throughout the event, you will be able to perform multiple activities. The seminars offered cover a variety of topics and are taught in English and Spanish. All require prior registration and their duration varies depending on the complexity.
Undoubtedly, the courses that teach sailing are preferred by visitors to the Miami Boat Show. For example, training programs are provided in the water, boat handling and precision docking, and introduction to navigation. For children, fishing courses and the junior captain program are offered, among many others.
In addition, the Miami Boat Show includes sailing experiences. In them you can learn about navigation tablets, docking, towing and maintenance of a boat. You will also learn about marine conservation and environmental care.
The best options to buy a boat
If you are thinking of buying a boat, this event will be especially attractive to you. At the Miami Boat Show you can take a trial at sea. At the demonstration pier you will encounter more than 200 vessels: powerboats, cruise ships, high-performance vessels, sailboats and more.
So you can analyze your purchase options after a real browsing experience. Unlike car shows, at this nautical event you will be able to buy a boat at very convenient prices. In addition to being able to compare different models and brands, you’ll get financing options and other incentives.
VIP service and excellent gastronomy
For the most demanding, the organizers of the Miami Boat Show offer the VIP Experience option. This allows you to enjoy all the services within the show and unlimited access to the VIP lounge. This space has air conditioning, wifi, an outdoor terrace, food, drink and entertainment totally free.
Availability for VIP service is limited and requires advance ticketing. In addition, in order to acquire it, the visitor must be over 21 years old.
As for gastronomy you can find a wide culinary offer. From coffee shops and breweries to sushi restaurants, Mediterranean food, tacos and burgers. In addition, the different facilities of the large property have portable food carts.
This event is not the only attraction that Miami has to offer to lovers of sailing and the sea. In addition to having hosted the Miami Open for several decades, Key Biscayne is an ideal destination for water sports and sailing. There you can go kayaking, windsurfing, fishing trips, snorkeling, rowing and diving.
Also, in February the Miami Sailing Week is held in Coconut Grove, the largest regatta in the city. Another nautical event is the Miami Boat Rally, in which family category boats from 21 feet onwards participate. The history and reputation of the Miami Boat Show explain why his organization attracts so many visitors from different countries. This event represents much more than just a show with boats. The Miami Boat Show is an unmissable event for lovers of sailing and the sea, as well as for tourists looking for what to do in Miami.
References
Miami and Beaches. (2019). Miami International Progressive Boat Show. Retrieved from https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/event/progressive-miami-international-boat-show/148.
Nautica News. (2020). Miami Boat Show. An essential event. Retrieved from https://nautispots.com/miami-boat-show-2/.
NMMA. (2020). Miami International Boat Show. Retrieved from https://www.miamiboatshow.com/.