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Boat show offers look at marine equipment

Vender dock space will be at a premium in the Nanaimo Boat Basin this weekend (June 3-5) as the Floating Boat and Marine Trade Show is sold out.

In its seventh year, the Nanaimo show is firmly established on the West Coast boat show circuit, attracting 30 major yacht brokers and manufacturers.

The annual event showcases more than 3,500 feet of boats plus 7,000 square feet of marine trade show products and services.

“We’ve filled our space with new product again this year, a very good sign that this show provides the right products and mix for show attendees,” said David Mailloux, Nanaimo Port Authority’s boat show manager. “Participants from Vancouver Island, the mainland and the U.S. will be on hand with an inventory of new and pre-owned product.”

Mailloux said Nanaimo’s reputation among the yacht brokers and marine-related businesses is of a quality show that moves products.

“After six shows, participating brokers understand this market and cater to the needs of show attendees,” he said.

An added bonus this year is the Telus Van Isle 360 yacht race starting from the docks on Saturday (June 4) at 10 a.m.

The port authority’s objective is to provide people with the opportunity to get close to the latest equipment, new education and various services on the water.

RCMP Coastal Watch, RCMP auxiliary, Transport Canada, Nanaimo Power Squadron, Boat Smart Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Ocean will be on hand.

Participants can write their boater’s exam on-site or register for more courses.

Dock admission is $5 per day or $10 for multiple days. A free shuttle from Departure Bay for B.C. Ferries foot passengers is available.

Please visit www.vancouverislandboatshow.com for hours.