53rd Annual Detroit Boat Show Brings Summer Fun to Cobo Center

Boat show offers everything boating plus entertainment for all ages, Feb. 12-20

Livonia, MI – The momentum picks up as exhibitors snatch up the remaining spaces at the 53rd Annual Detroit Boat Show where more than 60,000 consumers are expected to see and shop hundreds of new model boats of all types and sizes. The nine-day event is scheduled for Feb. 12–20 at Cobo Center in downtown Detroit — which is under new management and should offer some newly updated amenities for attendees to experience.

With Michigan’s best dealers all under one roof, offering the best pricing of the year, there is no better way to compare and shop for a new boat. There is no better time to buy as many dealers and manufacturers offer one-time exclusive early order discounts as an added incentive to buy at the show. Boats purchased at this winter boat show can be customized and ready for spring launch.

“The Detroit Boat Show is a great family event to attend whether you are in the market to buy a boat, or if you are just looking for an opportunity to have nine days of fun,” said Michigan Boating Industries Association President and Boat Show Manager John Ropp. “We bring hundreds of boats for fishing, skiing, wakeboarding, pontooning and cruising to Cobo for easy comparison shopping, and fill the hall with great activities and promotions for those looking for something to do with their family or friends.”

Shoppers are able to visit boat dealers as well as exhibitors selling motors, dockage, water toys, skiing and wakeboarding gear, boating and fishing accessories, boat gear, nautical gifts, artwork and much more—all under one roof in a casual and fun environment.

Special features include the Live Shark Encounter Show, Time Bandit Race Boat, Sponge Bob Appearance, Discover Boating Center, Be A Diver Pool, Adopt a Pet Weekends, Antique & Classic Boats, Hydroplane Race Boats, the Kids Boating Clinic and a Free Boater Safety Course.

As the economy starts to rebound, 2011 is seen as the sweet spot for boat purchases as boat prices remain competitive and interest rates continue to remain low. “Boating is an activity that offers value far beyond the cost to participate and Michigan continues to be one of the finest boating states in country,” continued Ropp. “With more than 11,000 inland lakes and more coastline than any other state in the nation, it is no surprise that Michigan has nearly one million registered boats on file.”

Show Hours: Saturdays & Friday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sundays: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Admission: $12 for adults, children 12 and under are free with an adult and seniors 62 and over receive free admission on Monday, Feb. 14. Admission includes a free annual subscription to one of three boating magazines. Discount tickets and promotion schedules are available at www.detroitboatshow.net. Parking is available at Cobo Center and surrounding lots.