As the holiday season kicks off, the largest in-water boat show on Florida’s magnificent Gulf Coast will take place for four days for the St. Pete Boat Show, well-known for its beautiful beaches along popular Tampa Bay.
From Thursday, November 30th to Sunday, December 3rd, the 40th Annual St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show will line Florida’s west coast waterfront at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park. Thinking about what to give your boat-loving friend or family member for the holidays?
Ideas for the perfect nautical gift are all around. The show offers a wide selection of powerboats and sailboats in the water and on land, including family cruisers, fishing boats, personal watercraft, and more. A 40,000-square-foot tent will display a large variety of boating products, marine gear, electronics, apparel, and accessories as well. Boaters can participate in numerous special events and exhibits offered, such as daily free marine seminars.
Be sure to bring the kids along to attend the fun and educational activities at the youth fishing clinics presented by the nonprofit organization Hook the Future. All participants ages 15 and younger will receive a free rod and reel. While you’re in St. Petersburg, take some time to visit a few of the city’s popular attractions like the Salvador Dali Museum and Locale Market, a 20,000-square-foot marketplace offering the region’s finest artisanal foods.
Jump on the Suncoast Beach Trolley for a tour of the area or just relax on one of the gorgeous beaches—no matter what you do, you’re guaranteed to have fun in the sun at the St. Pete Boat Show! For more information, or to purchase tickets online, visit showmanagement.com/st-petersburg
Boat Show Schedule
Thursday, November 30: 10AM-6PM
Friday, December 1: 10AM-6PM
Saturday, December 2: 10AM-7PM
Sunday, December 3: 10AM-5PM
Admission
FREE: “Kids Experience” for ages 15 and younger
FREE: veterans and active duty military
$17 for ages 16 and older
NOTE: No pets allowed except for guide dogs and licensed, working dogs.
Story by Bonnie Schultz, Southern Boating November 2017 PHOTO: FOREST JOHNSON
