One of Durban’s most popular annual winter attractions is scheduled again at the Durban Marina; the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show settles back into its normal mid-year weekend from July 15-17 and promises to be bigger, better and bolder than before.
Celebrating eight years this year, the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show is the only show in the country to show both locally and international built crafts in their natural habitat, with more than 50 superb sail and power boats tied up around the moorings and any number of smaller vessels, outboard motors, electronics, marine equipment and accessories displayed up on the hard. If you are enthusiastic about anything aquatic or nautical, the Durban Marina is the place to be!
This year the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show has extended its lifestyle section and spills out on to the newly-reclaimed land at the far end of the Durban Marina. The three day show offers buyers a chance to compare, explore and fall in love with a choice of sleek-hulled beauties, or stock up on a range of gadgets and accessories all at one venue, along with a variety of lifestyle items.
“Boating is a lifestyle, a way one can enjoy a healthy outdoor activity with the family, escape the pressure of modern day life on land and experience the freedom of being out on the water,” organiser Barry Meehan stated. “Anyone can find great things to do, from fishing to cruising or family fun, we have boats and accessories to fit every demand, activity and budget!”
“Now this is a show with great atmosphere. It’s a great show with a great future and one which should not be missed,” said Richard Crockett, editor for the South African Sailing magazine.
The show has a number of fabulous attractions that can be enjoyed by young and old alike. A new addition is the Knowledge Box that will showcase a variety of talks on all aspects of life associated with the boating, fishing and leisure lifestyles. One of the talks already confirmed is by Consolidated Auctioneers, who will be educating newcomers about the entertainment value and potential profitability of getting involved in auctions. Following the talks, Consolidated will be conducting live auctions from their stand, in a special Bits and Bobs Auction, with the proceeds from several of the items going to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
Keen showgoers can also try out a stand-up paddle board; try their hand at the land-based sail activity of Blokarts; get whisked away by nautical puppetry magic in a tent; go on a cruise, or sip a delectable sundowner on a balmy winter’s afternoon surrounded by all things aquatic.
The Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show: last weekend of the July school holidays from Friday 15 to Sunday, July 17.
Info: Call Creative Events on 031 266 9828 or go to: www.durbanboatshow.co.za
Details available of hospitality packages and cruise options during the show.
Show details:
When: July 15-17, 2011 (Friday – Sunday 9:30am to 5pm)
Where: Durban Marina; 3 Maritime Place, Yacht Basin off Esplanade / Victoria Embankment / Margaret Mncadi.
Parking: New parking area on-site at the Durban Marina