It’s that time of year when water lovers like to talk about how crazy the weather is while they dream of elements more suited for their boating endeavors.
There’s no need to wait for the experience.
The 71st annual Mid-Atlantic Sport and Boat Show hits the Virginia Beach Convention Center Feb. 2-4.
Lynnhaven Marine will join 23 dealers offering more than 70 brands of boats.
In addition, more than 80 boating-related vendors will be on hand with all their gear.
Several of the region’s top fishing clubs also will be on site, sharing their vast knowledge of the area’s numerous angling opportunities – and, no doubt, a few fishing stories.
Some of the world’s first electric powered boats also will be on hand.
“We’re all filled up,” organizer Russ Kostinas said. “We’re definitely back to pre-Covid numbers.
“People are still into boating and they’re going to see things they’ve never seen before.”
While the region’s host of dealers will represent their goods, some are coming from around the country – even the West Coast.
Since the boat-buying boom during the Covid isolation years, prices have stabilized and dealers now have more stock on hand. Many are offering pre-season sale prices.
Our main man, Chuck Guthrie, remembers the days when the show attracted thousands and Lynnhaven Marine was selling a mind-blowing number of boats.
“We sold 100 boats at the 2001 boat show,” he said. “Things aren’t like they used to be, but boating is still a viable industry and something people love to do.
“Around here, it’s viable for sure.”
Among the dealers, Lynnhaven will have 25 boats at the show, with a crew on hand all three days to talk to potential customers.
Expect the same from others involved.
Times for the show are from noon to 7 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and fro 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are $10 and free for accompanying children under 12.
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