Annual Boston boat show gets under way

BOSTON – They come. They look. They learn. And some buy.That’s the mantra among boat dealers and exhibitors of equipment and services at the 53th annual New England Boat Show, which opened Feb. 15 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St. The show runs through Feb. 22 and features more than 350 exhibitors and luxury yachts up to 50 feet.The convention center encompasses more than 500,000 square feet of exhibit space and ceiling heights over 90 feet, which means sailboats can be displayed with their masts stepped.Opening day brought a steady flow of visitors despite the nation’s soured economy and sales were reportedly similar to previous years. Joseph O’Neil, the show organizer, said, “Boaters are passionate about their leisure and I think that they’re just looking forward to the spring and saying we’re going to buy and we’re going to boat and we’re going to do whatever we have to do to afford the boat.”Tickets are $13 for adults and $7 for children ages 6-12. Children under 6 are admitted free. Hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday to Friday from noon to 9 p.m.The show is the oldest and largest in New England. It features fully-rigged vessels, including sailboats, pleasure boats, fishing boats, ski boats and personal watercraft, as well as the latest in marine electronics and marine accessories. The 9-day event also offers the latest fishing and boating-related activities, including seminars and interactive demonstrations.The convention center is located off Interstate 93 at Exit 18. Parking is available on site with a complimentary shuttle bus to the entrance. For more information, visit www.neboatshow.com or call (800) 225-1577.