Embracing BC’s new statutory Family Day holiday, the 2013 Vancouver International Boat Show kicks off this Thursday, February 7 and runs through Monday, February 11, showcasing the newest boats and boating products and services from more than 250 exhibitors. With new features, speakers, and attractions at both the indoor venue at BC Place and the in-water venue at Granville Island, this year’s show proves once again why VIBS truly is Western Canada’s premiere boat show.
 
Whether you’re new to boating or a long-time seadog, this year’s show, with its brand new dates and extended hours, makes it easier than ever for guests to get their boating season started. The addition of a third seminar stage at BC Place means attendees can now enjoy triple the entertainment and educational programming from top experts in the field; find advice on everything from DIY boat repairs and new navigation technology to fly-fishing techniques and exotic destinations.
 
At Granville Island, guests can admire the iconic harbour views and take-in the eclectic local culture while enjoying free boat rides, shopping the largest selection of in-water boats in Boat Show history, and visiting the brand new Maritime Lounge aboard Carousel II – it’s the in-water display’s prime location for food and drinks, right in the heart of the show.
 
Stop by BC Place to see Duma, the world-famous wakeboarding and boat-driving dog as she shows off her newest set of surfing skills, or check out the brand new Sport Fishing in BC display, where you’ll find information on a range of fishing-related topics. Speak with knowledgeable manufacturing reps and industry experts, like host of BC Outdoors Sport Fishing, Mike Mitchell, and learn from sport fishing pros as you demo the newest rod, reel, and tackle technology at the casting pond on the main floor.
 
Sailing aficionados will appreciate this year’s expanded SailFest display, which includes 3,500 square feet of interactive and one-of-a-kind indoor features at BC Place, as well as the largest number of sailboats in their natural habitat at Granville Island.
 
The Vancouver International Boat Show runs February 7-11, 2013 at Granville Island Maritime Market and Marina and BC Place. Pre-plan your visit at www.VancouverBoatShow.ca.
 
Dates:                         Family Day Weekend, February 7-11, 2013
 
Show Hours:             Thursday & Friday, 11 am to 9 pm
                                    Saturday, 10 am to 9 pm
                                    Sunday, 10 am to 7 pm
                                    Monday, 10 am to 5 pm                                  
                                    Granville Island in-water venue closes at 5 pm daily
 
Admission:               Adults: $15
                                  Seniors: $13
                                  2-day Adult Passes: $20 – New Multi-Day Ticket Offer!
                                  2-day Senior Passes: $17 – New Multi-Day Ticket Offer!
                                  Kids (16 and under): FREE
                                  Buy online before midnight February 6 and save $3/ticket
 
Locations:              BC Place – 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
                                Granville Island Maritime Market and Marina – 1676 Duranleau Street, Vancouver
                                Free shuttle buses and water ferries run continuously between BC Place and Granville Island
 
Features: FREE Discover Boating boat rides at Granville Island; Kids’ Zone; Sport Fishing in BC; SailFest, offering the latest sailboats, gear, and destinations; and, Discover Boating Centre, an educational one-stop-shop where attendees can find unbiased answers on how to get started in boating.
 
Western Canada’s largest consumer boating event, the Vancouver International Boat Show is owned by the British Columbia Marine Trades Association (BCMTA), and produced by Canadian Boat Show