The Progressive Insurance Norwalk Boat Show, the northeast’s premier in-water boating event, docks at Norwalk Cove Marina Sept. 24-27, offering visitors and local residents an all-access pass to discover why life is better with a boat.
Thousands of boating novices and lifelong enthusiasts are expected to cruise the show for exclusive specials and competitive bargains on hundreds of the latest luxury motor and sailing yachts, sport fishing boats, family cruisers, performance and sailboats, plus the largest selection of marine accessories.
The show will also offer new and seasoned boaters the chance to take the helm and participate in interactive on-the-water boating, sailing and watersports workshops in Long Island Sound. Kids will love Nature Nick’s Animal Adventure exhibit, paddleboating in a mini lake and other waterside activities, and the whole family will enjoy free powerboat rides and the chance to kick back and relax with live music at the Water Club Lounge.
“There’s no better way to extend summer and make the most of life on the water than spending a day on the docks exploring hundreds of boats and new technologies,” said Show Manager Jon Pritko. “Whether it’s a new navigation system, the latest and greatest fishing gear, or a new boat, boaters will find what they are looking for at the Progressive Insurance Norwalk Boat Show, and we could not be more excited to expand our interactive education offering this year.”
There are several highlights for serious shoppers, casual dreamers and outdoor enthusiasts at the 2015 Progressive Insurance Norwalk Boat Show.
People can boat hop and shop. See, board and compare hundreds of new boats ranging from 13-foot runabouts to luxury yachts at 70-plus feet.
Visitors in the market to buy will benefit from an early visit on Thursday or Friday to walk the docks, talk with dealers about new products and shop competitive bargains. Dreamers can also have fun “boat hopping” and plan ahead for a future purchase with the boat budgeting experts at the Discover Boating Center.
In addition, people can upgrade tech and water toys. Boaters on the hunt for the latest marine electronics, accessories and gear will delight in thousands of the latest and greatest navigation and radar systems, fishing equipment, design finishes, all-weather apparel, water sports gear and more from top outfitters and brands.
While at the show, people can learn to boat and sharpen their skills behind the helm, as the event’s educational opportunities are unparalleled.
Boaters of all experience levels can take advantage of workshops on Long Island Sound at Discover Boating’s Hands-On-Skill Training series, featuring lessons on close quarters powerboat handling, open water boat handling and seamanship, watersports technique and towing safety, anchoring and rafting up with other vessels and more. Attendees can also participate in daily on-land seminars covering a variety of topics including DIY sessions at Fred’s Shed.
In addition to boating, people can learn about fitness and fun on the water. Grab a paddle and head to Try It Cove to take a Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) demo, enroll in Paddlefit classes and more. Visitors can also enjoy free boat rides on Long Island Sound for a glimpse of what the boating lifestyle has to offer.
Family fun is also a priority at the show, as families can dive into fun with Nature Nick’s Animal Adventure and more. Families will love Nature Nick’s Animal Adventure, which allows kids of all ages to get up close and personal with exotic rescue animals including owl monkeys, wallabies, Amazon parrots and more.
Kids can also build a nautical masterpiece at the Toy Boat Building tent; navigate a mini-lake in paddleboats; and meet Sponge Bob SquarePants. Plus, don’t miss the chance to check out the famous Miss GEICO race boat (a catamaran that reaches speeds of more than 200 miles per hour) before heading to the Water Club Lounge with live music by Eric Stone to relax and unwind.
Tickets are $15 for adults and children 15-years-old and under get in free when accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a $3 discount per ticket for groups of 10-30 people and a $5 discount per ticket for groups of 31 people or more.
For more information, to order tickets online and to see updated features, seminar and event schedules, visit BoatShowNorwalk.com.
