There’s plenty to see and do at the 52nd annual Toronto International Boat Show, running Jan. 9-17, in the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, at 100 Princes Blvd. in Toronto.
With more than a million square feet, hundreds of exhibitors and 1,000-plus boats — everything from canoes, sailboats and kayaks to runabouts, cruisers and pontoons — there’s no better venue to discover why life is better with a boat.
Sudbury exhibitors include Softub Canada, which has a store at 967 Falconbridge Rd. and the Sportsman’s Inn – Resort and Marina, at 37 Channel St. in Killarney.
Here’s a look at the Toronto Boat Show’s top attractions.
- “The Lake” is back — Visitors can get their feet wet by taking advantage of free boat rides in canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and new this year, inflatable boats. The Lake also features wakeboarding demonstrations from the pros; boat handling demonstrations and more. Containing more than one million gallons of water, the Lake takes four days to create and offers an educating experience.
- Wakeboarding and wakeskating — The Winch Jam is back and reloaded, and the boarders and skaters are ready to entertain at the Lake with spectacular grinds, tricks and flips on the world’s largest indoor lake.
- Great Canadian Fish Tank — Canada’s top anglers, including the legendary fisherman and TV host Bob Izumi, will reveal the mysteries that lie beneath the surface during daily seminars at the Great Canadian Fish Tank, a 40-foot long aquarium filled with 5,000 gallons of water and stocked with native Ontario marine life. The host of Bob Izumi’s Real Fishing Show will conduct two exclusive seminars with an autograph session from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 16.
- Return of Henry’s Fish House of Georgian Bay — This January, the famed Henry’s Fish House returns to the show with a temporary restaurant set up, ready to freshly prepare their world famous fish dishes. Henry’s is a favourite destination for thousands of boating enthusiasts looking for a taste of summer. Henry’s permanent location is on an island in Georgian Bay, open only in summer with access by boat or seaplane.
- Duma, the Waterskiing Dog returns — Back by popular demand, Duma is making waves again at the show. This five-year-old Jack Russell Terrier not only waterskis but also drives the boat on the Lake. Duma will meet her fans for photos and more after each show, twice daily, Jan. 15-17 only.
- Discover Boating Centre — Whether an experienced boater or a novice, there’s something for everyone at the Discover Boating Centre. Learn from unbiased experts about what boat is right for your lifestyle; receive information on courses and boating destinations; plus much more.
- New product showcase — If there’s a new product on the market, one of the first places to find it is on the floor at the Toronto International Boat Show. The latest and most innovative products from eye-catching boats to handy new boating accessories will be featured at individual exhibitor booths. Just look for the New Product starburst signs on site or on the home page of the boat show’s website, TorontoBoatShow.com.
- Free boating seminars — Some of the biggest names in boating share their insight, experience and expertise to help boaters of any age or stage expand their knowledge. With something for everyone, the Presentation Centre (just outside Hall B in the Direct Energy Centre) is the place to sharpen any boating skill.
- Build-a-Boat contest — Parents get in free when their kids make and bring a mini-homemade boat, which will be on display throughout the show. A panel of judges will select the top 10, and then a random draw will be held to determine the two grand prize winners – prize consists of a “turbo paddler” paddle boat donated by Do It Industries.
Toronto International Boat Show
The Toronto International Boat Show runs Jan. 9-17, and is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tickets are $15/adults, $12 seniors (65+), $25/adults two day pass, $20 unlimited weekday evening pass (4-8 p.m.), youth 16 and younger get in free when accompanied by an adult. Discount tickets can be purchased online at TorontoBoatShow.com or are available at Pizza Pizza locations.
Those interested in learning more about the 2010 Toronto International Boat Show can visit TorontoBoatShow.com for complete details and updates or phone (905) 951-0009.
