Feb 29, 2016

The new and improved Halifax Exhibition Centre (formerly Exhibition Park) played host to the Halifax International Boat Show this past weekend, February 18-21 for what was by all accounts one of the best editions in years! 

“This year’s boat show was a huge success,” said Show Manager Scott Sprague. “I would say easily the best show we’ve had in a number of years. We’ve had reports of fantastic sales results and chandleries moved product all weekend. Attendance was up quite a lot over last year, which suffered because of poor weather. Overall, we were thrilled with the results.”

Every year thousands of visitors flock to this long-standing and well-loved show. For 2016, attendance was up over 30% from 2015 numbers.

Reports from exhibitors indicate that many of this year’s visitors were serious buyers who came to shop.

“The improvements to Halifax Exhibition Center, the show’s decor and the mild weather set the stage for our most successful boat show ever, said Kathryn Newell with Iron Wind Marine. “There was plenty of positive energy at the show and clearly boat buyers got the message – HAVE BOAT, HAVE SUMMER!”

“This was the best show for us, ever!” said Stuart Germani of Baddeck Marine. “Great traffic! The audience was very receptive and ready to purchase product.”

“Attendance and sales at the Halifax International Boat Show were up thanks to great weather and the fact that we were able to utilize the Halifax Exhibition Centre,” said Angus Buchanan of North Sails Atlantic / Yacht Shop. “People were very optimistic for an early spring arrival putting them in the boat yards and on their boats much earlier than the last couple of years… let’s hope they are right!”

“Quartermaster Marine had a very successful 2016 show,” said Jason Craig with Quartermaster Marine. “Thanks for all who took the time to visit our booth, and welcome our new clients to the Quartermaster family.

The always popular Halifax International Boat Show Facebook photo contest once again took place this year, with more than 100 submissions! Winning entries included Kristin Gillis with the top prize; runners up Shannon Oikle and Jamie Morrison; and Rebecca Pippy, winner of the new “boatie” selfie-themed category. All entries can be viewed on the Halifax International Boat Show Facebook page. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who entered!

Show staff and management also congratulate the winner of the “Boat Show Bounty” door prize: Lloyd Currie. The prize consisted of a Waterfront Experience Package featuring overnight berthing and power on the Halifax or Lunenburg waterfronts plus a collection of gift certificates and prizes from various Halifax Waterfront businesses.