It’s been many years since Sidney hosted a boat show, but this May 3 to 6 the waterfront will be buzzing as the BC Yacht Brokers Association bring their annual show back to the Port Sidney Marina. Each year yacht brokers and marine vendors gather from all over the Pacific Northwest (U.S. and Canada) to showcase the on-the-water lifestyle. Previously located downtown, this year the Victoria Inner Harbour Boat Show becomes the BC Boat Show and takes place in Sidney. Presenting sponsor, Mill Bay Marine Group, are pleased to offer this beautiful Peninsula location which will allow space for even more boats for visitors to explore, and easier access and parking.
The BC Boat Show has something for everyone in love with the idea of boating, whether you are still dreaming, new to the boating scene, an experienced sailor, on a modest budget, or want only the best. It will all be there. Inside the marina the over 3,500 feet of dock space will be lined with boats of all shapes and sizes. Look out for the popular Ranger Tugs and demo boats from the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue as well as luxury yachts, sail boats, power boats, fishing boats and more. For the serious buyer, sea trials will be available in the sheltered waters of the Haro Strait.
In the floating pavilion, vendors and exhibitors will have all things marine-related on display and for sale. Everything from outboards, dinghies, navigation equipment, rigging, boat yards, chandlery, clothing and a host of boating and fishing gear. Meet the team from SALTS Sail and Life Training Society, volunteers from Search and Rescue and experts from the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron. You can also find out about boating and water education and how to get started earning your boater’s license.
Adding to the festival feel, new this year is a beer garden on Bridgeman’s Barge, serving casual food and drinks and allowing visitors to make a day of it. There are not many places more spectacular to grab a bite to eat than the Sidney waterfront!
Families will get great value for money as kids go free when attending with a paying adult. The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea will be offering discounted admission for visitors to the show over the weekend; just show your wristband at their front desk.
The Town of Sidney has been very enthusiastic about the BC Boat Show’s return and this is one of the best times of year to explore all the town has to offer and spend time around the waterfront. The artists at ArtSea have chosen May 5 as the date for a “plein air” painting event, up to 50 artists will be set up around the waterfront, sketching and painting.
The BC Boat Show always has exciting prizes and giveaways thanks to their many sponsors and supporters. This year the Grand Prize is a houseboat vacation with Twin Anchors Houseboat Vacations, including seven nights on Shuswap Lake in a fabulous 15-sleeper houseboat. There are also door prizes, including four one-day sailing trips aboard the tall ship Pacific Grace generously donated by SALTS Sail and Life Training Society. Prize entry forms will be located at the admission gates. There is so much to see and do on show weekend; this year make sure your summer on the water starts in Sidney.
For more information, visit www.bcyba.com.
