Chicago Boat and Sport Show Returns to McCormick Place

Dec. 21, 2012 - PRLog -- Chicagoans will again have the opportunity to attend the returning Chicago Boat Show (http://www.chicagoboatshow.com/) at McCormick Place from January 9-13, 2013 at McCormick Place’s North Building, located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive. The five day show functions as both a giant exhibit of the newest boating, sports, RV, camping, and outdoor sporting gear of all kinds, as well as a marketplace where attendees can shop for all outdoor activity gear.

The Newest in Boating, RV, and Outdoor Gear Available at Annual Show

Hundreds of boats and RVs will be on display and available for purchase at the show.
Practically every type of RV will be represented at the expanded RV pavilion, including fifth wheels, Class A, B, & C motor homes, trailers, pop-ups and toy haulers. Many companies will offer camping and fishing gear and accessories, as well as outdoor sporting supplies and equipment from snow and water skis and snowboards to scuba and paddle sports gear and sporting goods of all kinds.

From yachts to speed boats and marine equipment of every kind will be docked in a harbor setting next to a large patio where patrons can order food. Thursday through Saturday evening will feature ambient boating music. New this year will be a showcase of boats available for financing of $250 or less, as well as the Water Center, where experts will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice on choosing a boat and other resourceful boating information.

More highlights include seminars run by experts from The Annapolis School of Seamanship that are included with the price of admission, such as Boating 101 for novice boaters and advanced sessions offering training and education for more advanced mariners. Fred’s Shed, a realistic repair shop, will assist interested show attendees in maintaining and repairing boats and motors. A virtual scuba diving interactive display will allow attendees that are new to the sport to try it for the first time. Lodging and resort companies will also be at the show to offer specials and information on planning vacations.

Hands-on demos include a Power Boat Docking Challenge where boaters can test their navigational prowess at an actual full-size boat helm and steer a craft down a twenty-foot virtual lake to a marina and into a slip. Experienced boaters and novices are welcome. There will also be an ASOS Nautic Boating Simulator which features hands-on training and practice for boat handling. There are different levels available, so more seasoned navigators can try more complex maneuvering. Giveaways and sweepstakes will also be offered throughout the show.

An exhibitor list, show map, guide, and schedule and much more are all available via the website. Tickets are available at the door or online, and are $12 daily, $36 for four, and kids are free. Purchase tickets in advance for a complimentary subscription to Yachting, Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, TransWorld Snowboarding or Ski.
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