Atlantic City Boat Show Launches, Signaling Spring’s Arrival

The Discover Boating Atlantic City Boat Show opens its doors on February 25, 2024, marking a vibrant kickoff to the boating season and providing a much-needed respite from winter weather. As the largest event of its kind in the region, the show features hundreds of boats and accessories, along with numerous interactive exhibits designed for families and enthusiasts alike.

Attendees can explore a diverse selection of vessels, ranging from speedboats to yachts. Boat shows are ideal for both novice and experienced buyers, offering a unique opportunity to compare various brands and models side-by-side. Many boats will be available at discounted show prices, allowing visitors to find their perfect match.

One of the highlights this year is the opportunity to engage in on-water activities. Fin-atics Marine Supply will host paddleboard demonstrations, available on a first-come, first-served basis. These demos will take place daily from noon to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. This interactive element adds a hands-on experience for attendees eager to test their skills.

Families will find plenty to enjoy, including a chance for children to create their own toy boats to take home. This fun activity will be available from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Younger children can also enjoy a ball-pit pond where they can try to “catch the big one.”

For adult attendees, the New Discover Boating Beach Club will feature island-inspired cocktails and mocktails, along with beach games to enjoy during the event. Guests can also commission hand-drawn caricatures, capturing their boat name or dream vessel, available on Saturday and Sunday.

Fishing enthusiasts can enhance their skills at the show, learning casting techniques from professionals at Goose Hummock, a recognized saltwater fishing outfitter. This hands-on demonstration will take place atop a 30-foot fishing tank, providing a unique approach to learning.

Returning for another year is Fred’s Shed How-To Center, where experts will offer advice on boat maintenance and best practices for boating. Visitors are encouraged to bring their questions regarding boating tips and issues.

Classic boat lovers will appreciate the display of restored vessels, including a 1951 wooden Chris Craft Holiday and a rare 1968 Steven Hydroplane powered by an L-88 engine. Additionally, attendees can take a photo with a 10-foot tuna, also known as “Tiny Tuna,” weighing in at 1,000 pounds.

The Fisherman Magazine will host several fishing seminars throughout the event, covering essential topics such as big-game fishing rigging and strategies for landing trophy fish. The complete seminar schedule can be found at acboatshow.com.

To honor military personnel and first responders, the show offers free admission on February 25 for active and veteran military members, as well as active and retired first responders. Participants can obtain their complimentary tickets by presenting valid identification.

The Atlantic City Boat Show will run from February 25 to March 1, with hours from noon to 8 p.m. on weekdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is priced at $20 per day for attendees aged 13 and older, while children aged 12 and under can enter free with a paying adult.

For those interested in exploring more boating options, the 27th Annual Greater Philadelphia Boat Show will follow closely, scheduled for March 13-15 in Oaks, Pennsylvania. This event, while smaller, will also showcase various boat brands and is expected to attract a sizable audience.

For further details or to purchase tickets for the Atlantic City Boat Show, visit the official website at https://www.acboatshow.com. This year’s event promises to be a lively celebration of boating and water sports, providing a robust preview of the warmer months ahead.