Newport International Boat Show Off to a Strong Start

This weekend's 40th Newport International Boat Show at the Newport Yachting Center is off to a great start. Other than a bit of rain at the end of Thursday, the weather has been perfect for perusing the latest and greatest in the boating industry, and that's exactly what thousands of people are doing.

The Newport International Boat Show has something for every boat enthusiast, whether you are looking for a dinghy, a day cruiser or want to take your boat across the oceans. There are single hulls and monohulls, sailboats and power boats, and every technical device, boat accessory, and piece of gear you, your boat, and your pet could need while you're on the water. In addition, you'll find information on yacht clubs, boating magazines, and the boating community in general.

The event takes place under tents at the Newport Yachting Center and in the Mooring parking lot, as well as along the docks and waterfront from the Newport Yachting Center over to the Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina. As the largest in-water boat show in the northeast and the first big event of the boat show season, Newport is the U.S. launching spot for many 2011 product models. There are over 40 new products this year, and they are easy to spot with special red and blue "New For Newport" balloons overhead their displays.

While vendors come from all over the world to display their products at the Newport International Boat Show, we live in a community that is so dependent on the boating industry. There are dozens of local vendors on display as well this weekend, so don't be surprised if you see one of your neighbors working a booth.

In addition to products for boat owners or prospective boat owners, there are also vendors featuring boat charters and other ways to enjoy the water as well.

Many of the vendors said on Friday morning that they were pleased with the turnout and had been having good sales—a very important factor in continuing to draw the best vendors to any event.

And for those of you who don't think boating is your thing, there's still a good chance you'll find something you're interested in at the boat show. From nautical jewelry, driftwood artwork, foul weather gear, flip flops, and recycled sail cloth bags, anyone who enjoys shopping will enjoy it just as much as the boaters do.

Other activities at the show include panel discussions, marine weather seminars, and a 45 minute sail around Newport Harbor.

If you foresee a boat of any size in your future, want to see some of the amazing technology that is out there, or are just looking for something to do this weekend, the 40th International Boat Show is a fun event to check out.

The show is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $18. Children under 12 are free with an adult. For additional information, go to www.newportboatshow.com.