Miami Boat Show Convention Center
I find it hard to believe that this week’s Miami International Boat Show started 73 years ago! My calculator tells me that first show must have been in 1941 — a year that carries enormous “infamy” for Americans. According to several sources, the early to mid-1940s also marked the dawn of fiberglass-boat building.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association website says that first year, a total of 50 exhibitors gathered under a tent at Miami’s Bayside Park. When the 2014 show officially opens Thursday, organizers expect more than 2,000 exhibitors spread over three venues, including the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Miamarina at Bayside. More than 100,000 people are expected to attend over the show’s five-day run (Feb. 13-17).
My history at the Miami show goes back about 20 years, though I can’t claim to have attended every one of those annual events. Still, MIBS (as many of us call it) is an amazing experience. For those of us who write about boats, gear and electronics, it is the premier show for new product. And who doesn’t like new product?
The staff editors at Sport Fishing and our sister publications have received invitations to at least a dozen press conferences, and we expect to test-run new outboards and boats and spec out the latest innovations in marine electronics. All of our coverage — from videos to photo galleries to blogs — will post to our home page and to a special Miami Boat Show page. Right now, check out our Top 10 Things to Do at the Miami Boat Show and our** Best of the Miami International Boat Show gallery** from last year. Watch our Facebook page for on-site updates, and come on down to play in Miami! Hope to see you there.
For information on dates, times, tickets, and parking check out the Miami Boat Show website.
