Guide To The 2011 Miami International Boat Show
It's that time of year again -- to dream of sailing off in one of the mega yachts that populate every available dock along South Florida's waterways. Every year in mid-February, the Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sails, now in its 70th year, rolls into South Florida and customers from around the world come to ooh and ah at the multi-million dollar liners.
About The Miami International Boat Show
The show is so large it is spread out over three locations: Miami Beach, Bayside and Miami. Opening night is February 17th and runs for five days through February 21st.
The Miami International Boat Show docked at the Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr., features more than 200 exhibitors from around the globe displaying multi-hull sailboats, sailing seminars and charters among others. Diving classes are offered inside the Miami Beach Convention Center along with a variety of entertaining exhibits.
The 26th annual Strictly Sail Miami boat show takes place February 17th through the 21st in conjunction with the Miami International Boat Show. Strictly Sail Miami is docked at Bayside, 400 Biscayne Blvd., featuring a variety of exhibitors and classes on how to inspect and maintain your boat.
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center, 1635 N. Bayshore Drive, Miami, features thousands of powerboats, sailboats, engines, electronics and marine accessories from numerous manufacturers.
"There is no other boating event in the world that provides boaters with the opportunity to shop the best and biggest selection of boats and accessories. With thousands of products to choose from in one of the best boating destinations and dozens of activities the whole family can enjoy, the Miami International Boat Show is THE place to find out why life is better with a boat," said Cathy Rick-Joule, show manager.
Getting There
If you plan on heading to the boat show, prepare to spend some time in traffic trying to get to the show, or try the multiple services that will get you to the boat show.
How To Get There
Shuttle Bus Service
Courtesy shuttle buses will run among all locations including the park and ride at the American Airlines Arena from one hour prior to show opening through one hour after show close daily. Daily parking at the American Airlines Arena is $10. The Yacht & Brokerage Show also offers free shuttle service to–from the Miami Beach Convention Center and Collins Avenue and Collins Avenue to–from the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center beginning one hour before the show opens until an hour after show closes each day. The Yacht & Brokerage Show is not affiliated with the Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail.
Water Taxi Service
A water taxi service is available between the park and ride at the American Airlines Arena, Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center, and Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside from 10am–6pm daily.
Handicapped Services
Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available on a first-come first-served basis through the D Lobby security studio at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The user must leave a driver's license for collateral. There is no charge for wheelchair use, however, electric scooters are rented on a cash only basis and are $40.00 per use and can be reserved if they are paid in advance with Gary Kramer at showpros@bellsouth.net.
Hours
Thursday, February 17, 10:00am–6:00pm
Friday, February 18, 10:00am–8:00pm
Saturday, February 19, 10:00am–8:00pm
Sunday, February 20, 10:00am–8:00pm
Monday, February 21, 10:00am–6:00pm
The Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and Strictly Sail Miami at Marina at Bayside locations are open from 10:00am–6:00pm daily.
Admission
5 Day Pass (Good all 5 days of the show)
Thursday, February 17th–Monday, February 21st — $75.00
Premier Day (February 17th) — $30.00
Friday–Monday (February 18th–21st)
Adults — $16.00 (16 and older)
2 Day Pass — $30.00
Children 15 and under are FREE (must be accompanied by an adult)
