Providence Boat Show
The 17th annual Providence Boat Show will be later than usual this year. Mark your calendars. From Thursday, January 7th to Sunday, January 10, 2010, boats of all sizes and makes will be displayed for viewing at the Rhode Island Convention Center. This show isn't all about boats though. There are also booths for fishing gear, marinas, finance companies, jewelry, magazine publishers, boating schools, electronics, marine towing services, and marine outfitters like Defender, give-a-ways, discounts and plenty of additional booths with diesel engines, motors and sportswear, are all coming together at The Rhode Island Convention Center for what promises to be one of the best boat shows ever.
Show Times:
- Thursday, January 7 ~ 4:00pm - 9:00pm
- Friday, January 8 ~ 12:00am - 9:00pm
- Saturday, January 9 ~ 10:00am - 9:00pm
- Sunday, January 10 ~ 10:00am - 5:00pm
Ticket Prices:
- Adults and children over 12 ~ $10.00
- Children under 12 ~ free with an adult
Short List of Boats and Luxury Yachts on Display:
Over 300 boats from 8 to 40 feet will be on display, including Albin, Azimut, Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Four Winns, Larson, Mako, Maxum, Sailfish, Sea Hunt, Sea Ray, Stingray, Trophy, Wellcraft, Hobie, Sunfish, Achilles, Avon, Mercury and Zodiac.
Sample of Seminars:
Chart Navigation, Radar Navigation, Becoming a Licensed Captain, Tuna Tactics, Freshwater Bass Fishing, Boat Handling Basics, Vessel Deliveries, Using GPS Chartplotters and many more.
Directions to the Rhode Island Convention Center:
RI Interstate 95 Exit 22A. The Dunkin' Donuts Center will be visible from the highway. Follow signs to the Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street, Providence, RI, 02903.
Providence - The Renaissance City
With a population of over 175,000, Providence has taken on the name "The Renaissance City". Rich in history, it is a revitalized city that is full of great restaurants, luxury accommodations and shopping. Whether you're a boater or a landlubber, Providence and the surrounding communities has something for the entire family.
Things to do in Providence:
Roger William's Park Zoo, Fleet Skating Center, Providence Children's Museum, Providence Place Mall (150 stores, 16 theaters and an Imax theater), Rhode Island School of Design and historic Newport is a short 30 mile drive.
Restaurants in Providence:
Federal Hill is known as Little Italy and has many Italian restaurants to pick from. Julian's, Hemenway's Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, Chez Pascal Restaurant and Dave and Busters are nearby. There's a Dunkin' Donuts or Starbucks on nearly every corner and along with plenty of small cafe's and breakfast eateries you won't have far to go. Providence clubs and a vibrant night-life are just a walk away.
Hotels and Lodging in Providence:
- The Westin Providence, 1 West Exchange Street, Providence, 02903, 401-598-8000. Adjacent to the show, family-friendly, pet-friendly hotel with 564 rooms, health club, wi-fi, indoor pool, restaurant. Group and show rate available.
- Hilton Providence, 21 Atwells Avenue, Providence, 02903, 401-831-3900. 274 rooms. Adjacent to the show, wi-fi, indoor pool, restaurant. Special room rate available for boat show attendees. From $99.00 per night.
- Providence Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence,02903, 401-421-0700. 2 blocks from the show, 289 rooms, restaurant, wi-fi, fitness center, spa.
The Downside: Even though parking garages are plentiful, they can be expensive, especially during an event like the Providence Boat Show. The closer you park, the higher the rates. You can find cheaper parking if you don't mind hoofing it a bit. Traffic is often bumper-to-bumper during rush hour. Plan your travel accordingly.
Prices (US dollars), policies and information are subject to change. Call show and hotels to verify.
Information for the 2010 Atlantic City Boat Show, Boston Boat Show and the Chicago Sailboat Show coming soon.
Take a culinary trip and Eat Your Way Through Rhode Island.
Go on a few Wine Tastings in Newport Rhode Island.
Sources: starwoodhotels.com, hilton.com, providencebiltmore.com, tripadvisor.com, mapquest.com, providenceboatshow.com, silverton.com, cruisers.com, carveryachts.com
Donna Diegel - Donna Diegel is an experienced baker and published author with more than 25 years of experience in the food industry.
