This year’s 10th annual San Diego Sunroad Boat Show returns to Harbor Island, Jan. 24-27, with more than 150 boats on display on both land and water, including the largest number of new sailboats on the West Coast. It’s now the largest West Coast boat show, with something for everyone in the recreational boating world. Offerings range from trailerable boats and inflatables, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards shown on land to sail and powerboats from 30 feet to yachts over 80 feet exhibited in the water.
The ever-larger winter boat show runs from Jan. 24 through Jan. 27 at Sunroad Resort Marina, located at 955 Harbor Island Drive, at Harbor Island’s east end. Show hours are noon to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
The show provides guests the chance to tour both new and used sail and powerboats in every price range, style and size. The show is split about 75-25 percent between power and sail boats, with more new sailboats than previous years, explained Show Director Jim Behun, who doubles as the marina’s general manager.
“This is a show organized by boaters for boaters of all kinds. Exhibits and vendors are all boating-related,” Behun said, explaining that show has expanded to more temporary docks.
Among the dealers exhibiting include South Coast Yachts, showing Bénéteau sail and power lines, Sun Country Marine displaying Sea Rays, Boston Whalers, Rivieras and other lines, Cruising Yachts’ Jeanneau and Elan Impression models and Alexander Marine’s Ocean Alexanders. Numerous sailing catamarans are also featured.
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday the pavilion hosts seminars on subjects including solar panels for boats, electric-powered boats, and getting your captain’s license.
Representatives from the Mexican Marinas Association and La Paz Tourism Board will present seminars on boating in Mexico, describing their facilities, amenities and cruising.
Exhibitors will again provide free boat rides for the entire family.
Unlike many boat shows, the Sunroad show offers both new and brokerage boats shown in the water. The show’s tented exhibits include over 100 vendors offering widely ranging marine services and equipment, electronics, nautical products, boating supplies and accessories.
Show tickets are $15, with children 12 and under free. Active-duty military, police, EMTs and fire personnel with ID are free Thursday and Friday.
Because of crowded docks, show staff ask guests to leave pets and strollers at home, with service animals always welcome.
Paid parking is available adjacent to the marina on Harbor Island Drive Sunroad’s Island Deli and other vendors will offer varied menus. Nearby, Island Prime/C Level Lounge and Coasterra Restaurant provide alternate dining options.
For latest details on seminars and exhibitors, visit bigbayboatshow.com or call 619-497-5254.
