When it comes to culture-rich and visually stunning locations to visit, Charleston, South Carolina rises above other cities in the get rid of cabin fever and winter boredom. While most of the United States is bundled up to stay toasty in January, Charleston features warm weather perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and the beautiful Camellias flowers that are in full bloom. A location right on the picturesque waters of Charleston Bay gives the city year round views and plenty of waterborne things to do. You can take a boat tour of the many barrier islands to enjoy their pristine beaches and secluded locations. Hop in a kayak and get a unique perspective of the surroundings and the wide variety of wildlife. You can also fish, sail, swim, dive, surf, snorkel, play beach games and take part in just about any fun outdoor activity you can imagine. Charleston is a beacon for outdoor lovers and watersports enthusiasts, making it the ideal location for a show like the Charleston Boat Show.
Each year, the Charleston Boat Show is a highly anticipated event and has been a staple of the community for 36 years. Thousands flock from the community and the entire region, for this three-day kick off of South Carolina's Lowcountry boating season. A multitude of boating associated vendors and professionals showcase their products and knowledge at this event. While most of the show is catered to boating, you’ll also find plenty of fishing seminars, demonstrations and exhibits. It the perfect place to bring the entire family. Your kids will love activities such as face painting, bouncy houses, treasure hunts, and the popular “Hook the Future” program, that shows children the fundamentals of fishing in a fun and interactive environment. Adults will love the presentations by professional fishermen and there is even a “Anglers Academy” where fishing enthusiasts can improve or hone their particular skills. The overall environment is friendly and warm, so bring the whole family for a fun experience in a great community. We interviewed Jacqui Bomar, the Owner of JBM & Associates, to talk about this fun winter event.
RAL: Tell me a bit about the event.
JB: The Charleston Boat Show is a long-standing tradition in this coastal community. Now, in its 36th year, the show has grown into a reunion of sorts for boating enthusiasts who look forward to finding great deals on new boat models, and learning about the latest trends in marine products and services. The Charleston Boat Show is also filled with fun for the entire family. The show consistently attracts 10,000 attendees who make their way to the Charleston Area Convention Center in North Charleston from all over the Carolina’s and beyond.
RAL: Who are the attendees demographically?
JB: You will see a lot of families at the three-day event, so we make it a point every year to have some fun and educational activities for children, including fishing classes and pirate treasure hunts.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
JB: This event is popular and successful because it hosts all the new boat models on sale, as well as the latest trends in the marine industry. People can find just about anything they are interested in. The southeast’s best boat dealers and manufacturers will be on-hand to answer questions. These are the people with the knowledge to teach novice boaters as well as the more experienced. There is no other place you can go and see this variety of powerboats and accessories. There are endless choices, along with quality educational fishing seminars.
RAL: Take me through a typical day at the event.
JB: The event opens on Friday, January 29, with VIP-only access between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm. After that, we open to the public at noon. Friday you’ll typically find the very serious buyer who cannot wait to get to the show to find their perfect boat. On Saturday, the event kicks into high gear with the Coastal Fishing Expo, a DNR fishing simulator, pirate treasure hunts as well as kids’ fishing classes, with the opportunity for each child to take home their own free rod and reel.
RAL: What can attendees expect to find for local lodging?
JB: Charleston in January is a great time to find bargains at hotels and other types of lodging. There are many options in the North Charleston area, and several that are a few minutes away from the event. Other people like to stay in Charleston and drive the 15 minutes to the event.
RAL: Are there any lodging deals set up specifically for the event?
JB: The hotels of choice are the Embassy Suites and Hyatt Place, both within walking distance and both offer excellent boat show rates. Visit our website for details.
RAL: Does the event drive business to the local economy?
JB: The show is a huge economic boost for the local community as it brings people in from all over. It also has a major impact on the local boat dealers, with many of them making between 50-70% of their annual sales during this weekend.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
JB: The Charleston Boat Show is the perfect event for anyone who loves life on the water. It has something for everyone, including folks who have never actually been on a boat. There is an air of excitement at this show. Perhaps some would say, it’s like coming down the stairs on Christmas morning to see what Santa has left. There is so much to see and do and everyone is happy to be there!
For more information about the Charleston Boat Show, please visit their website.