Taste the Tropics, Meet Deadliest Catch Star, Escape to the British Virgin Islands & Cruise Back in Time with One-of-a-Kind ‘History of Boating in America’ Exhibit at the 2011 New York Boat Show

WHAT: The 106th annual New York Boat Show will turn the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center into a boaterÂ’s paradise this January, showcasing the newest and best in boating, plus plenty of blockbuster attractions for enthusiasts of all ages. Lifelong boaters and those just discovering the boating lifestyle have the unique chance to shop and compare boat brands side by side to find competitive deals on everything from luxury motor yachts and sport fishers to performance boats, sailboats, and thousands of marine accessories. For those looking to escape the winter blues and get a taste of life on the water, the 2011 show is bringing in new attractions, free daily and interactive boating courses, and more.

WHEN: Wednesday-Sunday, January 19-23, 2011; Wed/Thu/Fri: Noon-9pm; Sat: 10am-9pm; Sun: 10am-6pm

WHERE: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 655 West 34th Street, New York, NY

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS:

History of Boating in America. This unique exhibit will showcase a variety of museum-quality classic and antique boats from private collectors and classic boat manufacturers across the country. Visitors will cruise back in time to see an 1899 Elco electric launch, a full restored 1937 Syracuse electric launch, an 8-ft. model PT boat and other classic boats. A special section of the exhibit will see history come full circle with a showcase on the future of electric boating – a greener, quieter alternative for those who love life on the water.

Meet Russell Newberry, Star Deckboss from the hit TV show Deadliest Catch! Catch a photo op, an autograph and the inside scoop about life aboard three of the most popular crab boats in America. Visitors will have the chance to meet Russell Newberry, “Dangerous Deckhand” from Discovery Channel’s hit series Wednesday-Saturday; check NYBoatShow.com for appearance times.

Taste the Tropics at the Mount Gay Rum Tasting Bar! Find out why boaters and sailors favor Mount Gay Rum as you sample the World’s Best Rum Punch, Mount Gay “Rita” and other specialty cocktails from the Barbados mixology team at Mount Gay Rum!

Boat Handling Clinic: Designed to teach boaters how to maneuver a boat around docks and other boats in various weather conditions, this clinic consists of a 30-minute seminar followed by a hands-on session that utilizes a remote controlled boat to apply those skills learned during the seminar.

Check out the luxurious ‘Queen of the Show’ – 49-foot Sunseeker 47 Portofino. Tour the accommodations of this $1.15 million sports cruiser, which revolve around a large saloon and well-equipped galley with a master stateroom and a twin bed cabin, both en suite. There’s plenty of room to entertain, with a second social area with seating, wetbar and sunpad. With all the creature comforts of home, plus high-tech offerings, it’s good to be Queen!

Travel Alert: Enter to win a Boater’s Dream Vacation at the Bitter End Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands! Those who aren’t shopping for a boat can still enjoy the lap of luxury by entering for a chance to win an amazing BVI getaway. Winner will enjoy a 8-day/7-night trip for two to Virgin Gorda’s Bitter End Yacht Club in a beachfront villa or a North Sound suite including three meals daily, use of the vast club fleet of over 100 boats, snorkel excursions, sailing school 101 and more! Includes standard airfare for two from the Northeast courtesy of the BVI Tourist Board; valued at over $9,000 – enter in the Show Lobby for a chance to win!

Get a Hull of a Deal! Visit the expanded Affordability Pavilion, featuring boats that can be financed for less than $250 per month, and spend some time in the Discover Boating Center to get unbiased advice from the experts on boats for every lifestyle and budget.

Fishing & Boating Education: Informative, free, and entertaining daily sessions hosted by top local pros; produced in partnership with The Fishing Line. For schedules and more information, visit NYBoatShow.com.

Annual favorites include the Wing-A-Thon contest; SpongeBob SquarePants appearance; Fish Tales Contest with Garmin 540 GPS prize; and the Miss GEICO race boat!

Tickets: $12 for adults; children 15 and under get in FREE; Buy advance tickets online at NYBoatShow.com