This year’s San Diego Sunroad Boat Show returns to Harbor Island, Jan. 25-28, with more than 200 boats on display. It’s now the largest boat show on the West Coast, 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- to 90-feet exhibited in the water
The 28-year-old ever-larger winter boat show, now in its 9th year at Sunroad, debuts on Thursday, Jan. 25 and runs through Sunday, Jan. 28 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 60-40 between power and sail boats, with more new boats 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 are South Coast Yachts, showing the Bénéteau sail and power lines and debuting the Monte Carlo 6, Sun Country Marine displaying Sea Rays and Boston Whalers, JK3 Nautical Enterprises’ Hanse sailing yachts and Alexander Marine’s Ocean Alexanders and Hatteras yachts. Numerous sailing catamarans are also featured.
Boating education will again play a significant role at the boat show. With the phase-in of the newly required California Boaters Card, the Division of Boating and Waterways, located in Booth 138, will provide information about boating safety classes needed to obtain a boaters card.
On Friday, Saturday and Sunday the pavilion hosts seminars on subjects including electric versus diesel power, sailboat propulsion, offshore sailing and weather forecasting.
Representatives from 12 Mexican marinas and boatyards will be on hand describing their facilities and amenities and present seminars on boating in Mexico.
Again this year exhibitors will provide free boat rides for the entire family.
Unlike many boat shows, the Sunroad show offers both new and brokerage boats in the water. The show’s exhibits under an expansive tent include over 100 vendors offering widely ranging marine services and equipment, electronics, nautical products, boating supplies and accessories.
Show tickets are $13, with children 12 and under free. Active-duty military, police, EMTs and fire personnel with ID are free Thurs. and Fri.
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, with shuttle service provided. 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.
