Boat show, festival return to Metropolitan Park

News

Staff Writer

What started as an idea in 1997 has evolved into North Florida’s largest boat show and accessories fair and it makes its 14th appearance at Metropolitan Park this weekend.

One of the founders of the event believes he knows why the Jacksonville International Boat Show has become so popular not only with buyers and sellers, but with the general public.

Because of the format, it’s on the calendar for many people who just want to look at the latest in marine products or merely spend a day enjoying the Northbank of the St. Johns River.

“I think the reason we’re growing when other shows may be struggling is that it’s more than a boat show. It’s a festival,” said event Director Jimmy Hill.

In addition to seven acres of boats displayed on the park grounds, the City marina is also used for larger vessels. More than 40 dealers are registered to participate, along with about 250 vendors offering boating accessories and services. Hill said in addition to buying a boat at the show, captains also can finance their purchase, insure it and equip it without leaving the festival.

“It’s one-stop shopping and we think the best portal into boating,” he added.

In addition to plenty of space for inventory, the Downtown location near the Sports Complex offers advantages that have kept the show at the site for so many years.

“I’ve been to boat shows all over the East Coast and I think this is the best venue anywhere,” said Hill.

The accent on “festival” comes from the elements during the three-day event that aren’t focused on boats. There’s a tiki bar, live music and a “Miss Jacksonville International Boat Show” bikini contest. Hill said this year will feature a Polynesian dance review and a demonstration of search-and-rescue training by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Friday afternoon, the show will offer a happy hour for Downtown workers who might not even be in the market for a boat but want to wind down after the work week with a beverage by the river.

Weather predictions are good, too.

“We’re expecting the best weather for the show we’ve had in years,” said Mike Cassel, general manager of North Florida Yacht Sales.

Cassel said interest in the vessels he sells has increased the past few months.

“Our phones are ringing and business is making a comeback. I think it’s because people are ready to put this down economy behind them and this is Florida. People aren’t going to stop boating,” he said.

Manufacturers and dealers are offering incentives to help draw buyers.

“I think last year everyone was in a state of stunned miscomprehension,” said Mike Webster, a broker at Marine Max Hansen Yachts. “Now the economy is stabilizing and that’s stabilizing the boating industry. We’re very optimistic. The prop is turning and it’s in forward gear.”

He agreed the Downtown venue is the best location he’s seen for a marine products showcase.

“All of the things that are typically issues at shows, like space and parking, aren’t here at Metropolitan Park and it’s absolutely a festival that celebrates boating,” he said.

Hill said another reason he thinks the show has grown in popularity and attendance is it’s designed for family entertainment.

“Kids under 16 are admitted free,” said Hill. “The idea is, who needs to be at a boat show without the entire family? That way, everybody can find their seat on the boat.”

When asked if he’d ever consider moving the show to another location, Hill declared that won’t happen.

“We like to keep the energy Downtown because it’s the center of the city,” he said.

The 2010 Jacksonville International Boat Show opens Friday and concludes Sunday. For the schedule of events and ticket information, visit www.jaxboatshow.com.