Nanaimo’s boat show is back.

Workers are putting the finishing touches on the Waterfront Suites and Marina property in preparation for the Nanaimo Boat Show March 27-29.

Crews are installing lighting and electrical power. Early next week the tents will go up for the first boat show since 2012. The Vancouver Island Boat Show was a popular annual event the Nanaimo Port Authority held on its D Dock until that dock was closed. Owners of Waterfront Suites recently decided to resurrect it at their new, weather-resistant dock before it fills up with vessels this summer. “We’ve got the perfect marina – it’s brand-new – and we have a chance to use it for other things, until the boating season starts,” said Nelson Hill, marina co-ordinator and boat show organizer.

Organizers want to make the popular event even better. For boaters, there will be at least 50 yachts with a combined value of more than $20 million. Dozens of vendors will offer marine products, and tents mean people can browse rain or shine. A spacious parking lot provides ample room for more marine displays. Food service, live music and locally-made craft beer will also be offered.

“It will be a more festive environment than people are used to,” Hill said.

“The show has something for everyone. There’s a boat for every budget, and there are also great learning experiences for young new boaters, and for the more experienced mariner,” he said.

Tickets are now available online at www.nanaimoboatshow.com.

Weekend passes are $10. Day passes are $8. Children 12 and under are free.

Proceeds from the boat show go to support the John Howard Society of Nanaimo.

More information is available at www.nanaimoboatshow.com.

Original article courtesy http://www.nanaimodailynews.com/

Photo: Nanaimo Boat Show organizer Nelson Hill.   Photograph By Darrell Bellaart/Daily