Dreaming of Warm Weather?

      Why wait until spring to indulge your inner boat fanatic? Head to the 2018 Baltimore Boat Show to see what’s in store for this summer’s boating adventures.

      “The show is a great outing for the whole family, whether you’ve been on the water your whole life or you’re looking to dip your toes into boating. We have a huge selection of dealers and boats, plus boating seminars for all skill levels,” says show manager David Bachinski.

      Regional dealers in one place means exclusive show specials and competitive bargains on hundreds of the latest sport-fishers, family cruisers and performance boats, plus a large selection of marine accessories.

     For those looking to improve their nautical know-how the Annapolis School of Seamanship will be on deck with an array of hands-on boating courses, and visitors can master docking skills at the docking pool with remote control model boats.

      The new Oculus Rift virtual reality experience puts you at the helm of a virtual boat race, navigating simulated waters, all while trying to beat the clock.

      At the new Touch-a-Boat feature, kids can climb aboard real vessels including a U.S. Coast Guard boat, meet actual captains and hear stories of life on the high seas.

     “The boating industry is really booming in Maryland. New boat sales have been growing for the past five consecutive years and were up 15.2% year over year through June. Altogether, the boating industry contributes $2.4 billion in total economic impact in the state,” Bachinski said.

      “The show is a little taste of summer in late January. The warm weather will be here before you know it, and if you want to get out on the water this summer, now’s the time to find the perfect boat.”

Jan. 25-28, ThFSa 10am-8pm, Su 10am-5pm, ­Baltimore Convention Center,
1 West Pratt St., $14 w/discounts: www.baltimoreboatshow.com.