Kids In Vancouver: Peruse, Purchase & Play at the Vancouver International Boat Show

Granville Island Floating Show | Photo: Vancouver International Boat Show

With the ground covered in snow, and many of Vancouver’s water surfaces solidified in ice, it may seem like a peculiar time for the city to host a boat show. Now in its 55th year, the largest boat show in Western Canada has proven that boating can be a year-round affair.

At first glance, this showcase of the newest and most innovative boats and accessories may seem fit only for the most skilled and passionate boaters who are serious about making a purchase, but the event offers a variety of shows and displays to entertain visitors of all ages and skill levels. Here are 4 highlights at the boat show that the whole family can enjoy.

Boat Show at BC Place | Photo: Vancouver International Boat Show

The show spans over 2 locations – a floating show located in Granville Island, and an indoor expo located inside BC Place. With over 250 exhibitors, boat lovers and water sports enthusiasts have plenty of boat browsing and buying options, but visiting with kids in tow requires a need for some entertainment as well. Here are 4 things you’ll want to check out – especially if you’re visiting the show with the whole family.

Check Out the Formula 1 Tunnel Boats

Location: Field Level, BC Place

Visit the Kelowna-based Autoplace F1 Team, who compete at the very top of outboard racing in North America in the USF1 Tour. Their tunnel boats can reach speeds as fast as 220KMH, with a rate of acceleration that rivals Ferraris and Lambourghinis! See a race boat live at the show, meet the team, and get their autographs.

Kids Zone | Photo: Vancouver International Boat Show

Splash Around in the Kids Zone

Location: BC Place – look for the Kids Zone sign

Kids getting antsy? Pop into the Nautical Play Centre located in the Kids Zone where your little ones can enjoy paddleboat rides, arts and crafts, interactive displays, and more.

Watch Flyboarding “Superheroes on Water”

Location: Floating Show, Granville Island

Watch in awe as flyboarding professionals from Canadian Jetpack Adventures perform live shows on the water in Granville Island. Riding boards propelled into the air by jet packs powerful enough to power a Seadoo, these high-flying adventurists will demonstrate the thrill of the latest trend in watersports.

Hear Tales from a “Luxury Life At Sea”

Location: Below Deck Feature, Main Floor, BC Place

Meet Captain Harold Lee Rosbach – luxury yacht skipper and star of Bravo’s TV series Below Deck. Listen as he shares tales from his longstanding career commanding superyachts through exotic Carribbean destinations, and get a taste of the sweet life as sea captain to the rich and famous.

Download a full schedule of events and plan your trip before you go!

Photo: Vancouver International Boat Show

More show info:

Vancouver International Boat Show
Dates: Jan 18-22, 2017
Show Hours: Wed-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 10-5pm

Rates: Adults $15, Seniors $13
2-Day Adult Passes $20, 2-Day Senior Passes $17
5-Day Passes $25
Kids (16 and under) FREE

Show Locations: BC Place – 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver BC
Granville Island Maritime Market and Marina 1676 Duranleau Street, Vancouver BC

TIP: Begin your Boat Show visit at the Granville Island Floating Show as it closes at 5pm. Then hop on a FREE shuttle and explore all that BC Place has to offer.

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