St Petersburg Boat Show This Weekend

December 4th-7th Boater’s World presents The St. Petersburg Boat Show and Strictly Sail sponsored by Mercedes Benz at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park.

This year will feature larger waterfront and land displays, and new show additions. About 25,000 boaters and sailors are expected to attend this 4 day boating festival that includes family fun activities, parties and opportunities to enjoy a sail, climb aboard the latest boat models and check out new gear. This show is the result of the merger of 2 popular boat shows into one all-new “super show” now called St. Petersburg Boat Show & Strictly Sail. Sailing and boating manufacturers will display a variety of boats, including cruisers, yachts, fishing boats, sailboats, sportsboats, runabouts and pwc.The expanded venue adds 50 new sailboats to the docks, joining the current roster of 200+ powerboats. The yacht basin also will host an additional new on-land sailboat display, plus a new seminar program for sailors and power boaters. Renowned world cruisers, respected marine experts and intriguing boating authors will share their stories of adventure and provide info on navigation, safety, software, marine equipment and accessories.

Over 200 exhibitors will showcase what’s new in marine gear, charter destinations, engines, electronics, nautical clothing and technology,

Special events:
Hook the Future-Kids will “Hook the Future” free fishing clinics with giveaways of free rods and reels while supplies last. Kids who attend the fishing clinics also will enjoy free show admission.

Discover Sailing-This national introduction-to-sailing program gives attendees a chance to enjoy a 30-minute sail with an expert skipper
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Latitudes and Attitudes 9th Annual St. Pete Cruisers’ Party- Saturday evening, starting at 7 p.m. A popular, casual pizza-and-beer fest.

Onsite parking and come-by-boat docks available

400 First St. South St. Petersburg
Thursday, Dec. 4 – Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008
Thursday: noon to 6 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Prices: $8 for adults online; $10 at the gate
$3 for children ages 6-15 online.
$5 for children ages 6-15 at the gate
Children under 5 are free.