Popular Palm Beach Show Opens March 22: More Boats, More Serious Deals. Plus, Our Reviews of 36 New Boats
By Peter A. Janssen
It’s not hard to understand why the Palm Beach International Boat Show has become the fastest-growing show in Florida in the past few years. Its location is terrific: Centered in downtown West Palm Beach along the shores of the Intracoastal Waterway, it’s pretty and easy to get to, on land or on water. And once you’re there, it’s easy to navigate the docks and tents without competing with hordes of other people. It’s a no-hassle boat show, with a bit of the Goldilocks’ effect: It’s not too big, it’s not too small, its, just right.
In one of the most affluent sections of the United States, the Palm Beach show also is gaining a reputation as a buyer’s show. It’s the last major show of the season and attracts serious buyers. “It’s a great show to do business and make a deal,” says Mary Bender, VP of marketing for Informa, the London-based company that produces the show.
This year the show, the 33rd annual, runs from Thursday, March 22, through Sunday, March 25. It’s along Flagler Drive with the center near Evernia Street. There’s lots of parking within easy walking distance, and a variety of restaurants and places to have an after-show drink nearby. If you come by boat, you can tie up your dink for free at a dock just south of the in-water displays. Once you’re there, you can see more than $1.2 billion worth of boats and accessories, attend cruising seminars and sign up for on-the-water boat-handling classes.
To cater to a high-end crowd, the show this year is introducing a VIP Experience, a private club in the center of the show with a premium open bar, indoor and outdoor seating, private bathrooms and a concierge who will arrange yacht tours. A one-day VIP ticket is $125. Regular admission to the show is $24. For more: http://http;//pbboatshow.com
For our reviews of 36 new boats, go to:
http://cruisingodyssey.com/2018/03/04/on-watch-45-2-3-2-2/
