The 40th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show is a great way to see a plethora of all makes, models and new gear in the boating market this weekend.
March 25, 2022
By Shelby Busenbark
The Palm Beach International Boat Show kicked off this Thursday with a solid showing of outdoorsmen and women travelling from all over the state for the event. Just on my walk from the parking garage to the front gate I encountered some fellow Florida Sportsmen who trekked a whopping 5 hours from Clearwater just to check out the latest accessories being released from their favorite brands. This event is not only a great way to see what's new and explore boats you've only seen on TV , but a unique way to meet influential people within the industry: boat manufacturers, social media moguls and budding conservationists (shout out to the boys at MANG!).
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The show is located along South Flagler Drive, kitty-corner to Clematis street, and runs Thursday, March 24 to Sunday, March 27. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.pbboatshow.com and start at $29 per adult and $15 per child ages 6 and up. If you're feeling fancy, adults 21 and up can break out three Benji's and a Grant ($350 - quick maths) for a ticket to the Windward VIP Experience which includes a premium open bar, gourmet food, pop-up activations and one-day general admission access to the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair. If you want to join the elite Superyacht group farther north at Safe Harbor Rybovich, you'll need a small loan for a party of two ringing in at a cool $1,000 - but hey, no additional tax on top, so there's that.
If you're like me and stick to the main showcase, here's a handful of booths you must stop at during your visit.
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Sailfish Boats: New 316 Dual Console Sailfish Boats was our first stop so we could get our hands on the latest entry in their lineup, the 316 Dual Console. Announced at the show, the 316 DC sports a large open cockpit, full-height windshield, fold-away seating, built-in sink/shower head and comfortable forward lounge. This boat is built for both the fisherman and the family and is definitely a must-see at the show! sailfishboats.com
SOLACE Boats: New 32CS Must-See Stop 2 at the show, the brand new SOLACE 32CS. Luxury amenities, a roomy cabin and stellar layout technology make the 32CS a boat you need to see for yourself. Additional attention to details like unique embossed live wells and magnetic removable seat cushions are something you have to appreciate in person. This weekend is your chance to step on and check out this boat for yourself at the show and tell ‘em we sent you. solaceboats.com
Dusky Marine We've been covering Dusky Marine's boats on Florida Sportsman Best Boat for years and now is your chance to hop on one and see why. With rising demand and pricing in the boating market, Dusky remains an affordable and reliable option. Built to order, the Brown family works on a personal level with each new Dusky owner providing all of the features you want and none that you won't need, making this brand perfect for the boater on a budget who doesn't want to compromise fishability. While you're here, have a chat with the owner Mike Brown and climb aboard to see why Dusky is a favorite of Florida fishermen. dusky.com
Manta Racks If you are a committed paddleboarder, kayaker or water sport enthusiast, you know how much of a hastle it can be to try to accommodate your watercrafts on the boat. The ease a Manta Rack provides is something you have to experience to appreciate fully, and you'll never look back afterward. Not only do they offer storage solutions for the boat, but at home as well with wall mounting options and a variety of water sport accessories. Owners Lori and Jim are ever so pleasant to chat with and helpful in picking the right rack for you. mantaracks.com