There is something about Southwest Florida and boating. The two seem to go together like two peas in a pod. That’s one of the reasons the annual Fort Myers Boat Show is so popular. The collection of boats that line the streets of downtown Fort Myers from Nov. 21-24 is one of the most complete displays of boating vessels and boating products on the Sunshine State’s West Coast. When you’re done strolling through the show and looking at the magnificent boats, you’ll find popular restaurants, bars and shops a couple of blocks away. The downtown Fort Myers boat show is Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 21-23 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 24.
The 47th Annual Fort Myers Boat Show will take over the historic riverfront. There will be displays in the water, on the streets and throughout Centennial Park at 2000 West First Street. If you’re looking for your next toy, chances are good that you’ll find it here. The Fort Myers Boat Show is the biggest display of boating products and all things marine in Southwest Florida, from Centennial Park to the Fort Myers Yacht Basin. There will be more than 130 boat lines and a large display of fishing tackle and boating accessories. Where else will you be able to look at, touch, compare and purchase everything that’s new in the boating world?
What Types of Boats Will I Find at the Fort Myers Boat Show?
Regardless of what type of boat you’re looking for, you should be able to find it here. From fishing boats, skiffs, pontoon boats, bay boats, deck boats to luxurious yachts, to cruising and high-performance boats, there is something for everyone. When you find the perfect vessel, the gear and gadgets will be right there waiting for you. It’s like Christmas in November!
If you already own a boat and are not looking for a new one, there is an impressive display of accessories. You never know what you’ll find! There are displays of electronic equipment, boat lifts, fishing gear and equipment, motors and other accessories from manufacturers all over the globe.
Organizers said last year’s event was expected to be the largest one in over 40 years. Nearly 20,000 people were expected to attend, and more than 700 boats were featured for sale. This year’s Fort Myers Boat Show is slated to be the biggest and most complete display of water vessels in Southwest Florida.
Where is the Fort Myers Boat Show?
Fort Myers Boat Show tickets can be purchased on-site at either of the show’s entrances. The main show entrance is located at First Street and Carson Street, next to Joe’s Crab Shack restaurant. The second entrance is at the City Yacht Basin at Lee Street and Edwards Drive.
The Fort Myers Boat Show is owned by the Southwest Florida Marine Industries Association, whose membership comprises virtually every marine-related company and boat dealer in Southwest Florida. The association has protected boaters’ rights and endorsed boating and the marine industry in Southwest Florida for more than four decades.
What’s at the Fort Myers Boat Show?
“Fishin’ Frank’s Fishin’ Village” should return this year, along with a fishing simulator that gives you a chance to catch any type of fish you want. In previous years, there have been workshops and seminars on things like marine safety, diving, sailing, fishing and more. Whether you are an amateur or you’ve been boating for years, it’s always good to brush up on these skills to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time on the water.
Last year’s seminar topics included choosing your tackle, lure or bait, fishing with low winter tides, tarpon fishing, bass in freshwater, trout fishing, and classes on snook, redfish, sea trout, grouper and cobia.
Last year, the Village included a mini fishing show, tackle displays with factory reps on hand, casting tank, local charter captains discussing inshore and offshore fishing, and the popular fishing simulator.
There will be a boat maintenance area, too. The Fort Myers Technical College will be there to answer questions about everything from motor repair, electronics, and general regular maintenance tasks. Boating safety is a top priority at the Fort Myers Boat Show. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Lee County Marine Task Force and U.S. Power Squadron will also feature displays and they’ll be happy to answer questions about boating regulations and boating safety.
Vacation Rentals in Fort Myers
If Florida had a national pastime, it would be boating, so it’s no wonder the Fort Myers Boat Show is so popular. And according to a local news article and the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), 46,354 recreational vessels were registered in Lee County in 2017. The News-Press and FWC also said Lee County had the third-highest number of recreational boat registrations for the Sunshine State in 2017, trailing Miami-Dade and Pinellas counties.
Whether you’re looking for a new boat, accessories or information about fishing, boating or boating safety, you’ll find it at the boat show in Fort Myers, FL. And where better to have it than along the shores of the mighty Caloosahatchee River and within walking distance to the historic downtown River District?
If you’re interested in attending the boat show in Fort Myers, Royal Shell has a wide variety of Fort Myers vacation rentals available. Whether you’re looking for something big or small, we’ve got you covered. If you’re interested in spending some time on the water while you’re here, we offer Southwest Florida boat rentals from Port Sanibel Marina. Fort Myers also has offshore power boat racing events. They even deliver to most waterfront homes in the area. And the best part? When you stay in a Royal Shell vacation rental, you can take 30% off boat rentals at the marina.
Let us know how long you’re staying and what type of home you’re looking for and our Vacation Planning Advisers will get started searching for the perfect rental home. We make it easy, you make it home.®
