2014 Toronto Boat Show.

To brighten up a rainy, cold and generally miserable winter’s day, we spent the morning at the 2014 Toronto Boat Show. The last time we attended the Toronto Boat show Indy wasn’t even born yet, today she’s 17 going on 18 and like her dad.. daydream about life on the water (in the Caribbean though).

The Toronto Boat Show is massive and it seems that just about every boat enthusiast, cottage owner and those who enjoy the outdoors make it a yearly tradition to attend. The problem we had trying to find parking is a true testament of this as the lots surrounding the venue were packed.  After paying the daily rate of $14 we had to drive around with eagle eyes to locate and secure a spot (BTW there’s valet parking available). A hurried walk through the rain and we were in the show with eager anticipation… probably only me!

Here are some pics from the Toronto Boat Show…

Some thoughts..

The floor space (Direct Energy Center) of the show is ‘spread out” so do wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk. The price of food and drink will set you back about $2 to $4 more per item than what you’d expect to pay outside the show. The floor is well laid out so I’d suggest you get one of the free event magazines and map out the booths you’d like to visit and so you don’t get lost in the maze. The crowds were only just starting to build while we were there, so the walkways were never congested. However by the time we were leaving at about 2 pm things were already teeming. Do keep this in mind if you’re using a motorized wheelchair or pushing jr in a baby’s buggy.

Quick Tip… here’s where you’ll also get some wicked discounts on boats if you’re in the market. And I HIGHLY recommend you go see Ellen Sopher @ Pride Marine Group, she’ super friendly, very accommodating and will sort you out with a boat and price you and your family will be happy with.

For hours, admission prices, directions and parking, show map, sponsors, accommodations and FAQs please see Toronto Boat Show.

Join the conversation on FaceBook @ The Toronto Boat Show On FB.

The Toronto Boat Show is as good as it gets and you’ll be hard pressed not to find what you’re looking for. Just about every aspect of boating, cottage life and general outdoor life is covered. It’s a wonderful way to spend the day with your family when you want to daydream about summer temperatures and good times on the lake or Caribbean seas as Indy, Kelly, Caron and myself did.

Must Mention… we had a very rude experience with the sales/management team at one of the MAIN vendors on display. I’ll hold back from mentioning names as I hope the two people we encountered at the ‘office’ section were not a direct reflection of the entire organization. BTW.. they are the ones with what seemed like the biggest power boat on display.. maybe that’s why they were so cocky and could care less about helping us out.

* The cover image is that of Indy which I caught as she was touring one of the magnificent boats at the show.