Ahoy! Dubai Boat Show to test new waters

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Ahoy! Dubai Boat Show to test new waters
Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show this year can explore stand-up paddle boarding sessions, among other water sports. The superyacht life area is returning this year, bringing together the world's leading superyacht builders. - Supplied photos

Dubai - More than 30,000 visitors from 120 countries are expected to attend the show.

By Staff Report

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Published: Sat 6 Feb 2016, 11:00 PM

Last updated: Sun 7 Feb 2016, 7:19 AM

Besides the display of boats and superyachts, marine enthusiasts can look forward to much more at this year's edition of the Dubai International Boat Show. These include sailing and fishing trips, water sport stunts, stand-up paddle boarding and windsurfing, beach access and more, according to organisers Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
"Great events become exceptional when they become experiential in nature. Dubai has long spearheaded this trend and has developed an international reputation for being a global lifestyle destination. The Dubai International Boat Show aims to embody this reputation as we continue to expand our features," said Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice-president, DWTC.
"In our almost two and a half decades of history, the show has witnessed a shift in the way visitors want to participate and how exhibitors want to showcase their products. Increasingly, marine enthusiasts who attend our show are looking for an on-water experience which encourages more buyers of boats, marine accessories and water sports equipment," LohMirmand added.
More than 30,000 visitors from 120 countries are expected to attend the show, and scheduled to view more than 430 boats on land and water, as well as products from over 800 exhibitors and brands from 51 countries.
"More and more, the region's residents are becoming maritime leisure enthusiasts. They seek more than just yachts and boats, but a 360 degree experience encompassing all aspects of a luxury lifestyle," said Gregor Stinner, CEO of Art Marine.
New to the 24th running of the Dubai International Boat Show are a host of interactive and free activities, including daily jetpack, flyboard and fly bike stunts. Also new this year is a thrice-daily boating experience where participants can learn the basics of owning and driving a boat, while a fishing trip - thrice daily - will give participants a chance to learn quick fishing and trolling.
Organisers have also opened up the beach for visitors. Catamaran sessions, stand-up paddle boarding sessions, windsurfing manoeuvres and kayaking adventures are on offer. Kite surfing kit displays and technique discussions will also be available.
"We know how keen both residents and international visitors alike are to get out on the water here. Bringing this experiential element to the Dubai International Boat Show will attract more crowds and bring a new energy to the show. This is a fantastic showcase for the range of activities available here, highlighting the growing leisure marine community," said Barry Conlon, general manager, Watercooled UAE.
Show sectors for this year include: marina display, outdoor display, luxury and lifestyle, equipment services and supplies and diving. Returning again this year is the superyacht life area, bringing together the world's leading superyacht builders, as well as Supercar Promenade, Dive Middle East Exhibition and the Retail Village.
The 24th Dubai International Boat Show at Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi is open to trade visitors and the general public from 3pm to 9.30pm daily from March 1 to 5, with a single entry ticket cost of Dh60.
- business@khaleejtimes.com

Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show this year can explore stand-up paddle boarding sessions, among other water sports. The superyacht life area is returning this year, bringing together the world’s leading superyacht builders. — Supplied photos
Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show this year can explore stand-up paddle boarding sessions, among other water sports. The superyacht life area is returning this year, bringing together the world’s leading superyacht builders. — Supplied photos

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