World's Largest Indoor Lake for Boaters

Everyone's favourite showstopper – The Lake – is back to Put Some Summer in Your Winter!

The world's largest indoor lake returns to Ricoh Coliseum for the 2012 Toronto International Boat Show, where novice and experienced boaters can get their feet wet by taking advantage of FREE boat rides from Discover Boating in canoes, kayaks, paddleboats and inflatable boats.

The Lake also features spectacular wakeboarding demonstrations from the pros, boat-handling demonstrations, and more.

Containing more than one million gallons of water from Lake Ontario, The Lake takes six days to create and offers an educating and entertaining experience second to none!

Click here for all the "Features on the Lake."

Discover Boating Centre

A wealth of FREE resources and unbiased experts are on hand at the Discover Boating Centre to answer every boating question and help boat show visitors navigate their way to getting out on the water.

Whether you are new to boating or already an experienced boater, our boating experts can help you figure out the perfect boat to fit your lifestyle and budget. They can provide advice on everything from destinations and new activities to try, to boating courses, safety information, accessories, maintenance, docking tips, and much more.

You can even get pick up a boat-shopping guide to use at the show, plus lots of free information, including magazines and DVDs to take home with you.

Drop by the Discover Boating Centre and find out why life is better with a boat!

Zac Sunderland Returns to Speak at the Boat Show!
Around the World at 16

Zac Sunderland learned how to sail when he was four years old, and at 16 he embarked on the adventure of a lifetime – setting sail into the Pacific Ocean on a quest to see the world and become the youngest person to circumnavigate it alone.

For 13 months he weathered perilous storms and threatening pirates, while embracing new cultures, learning new languages, and making lifelong friends – even losing some to the sea.

In July 2009 he realized his dream: Zac became the youngest solo sailor to circumnavigate the world and the first under 18!

On January 20, 21 and 22 meet this intrepid adventurer at the 2012 Toronto Boat Show's Presentation Theatre seminar stage where he'll share tales of his record-breaking around-the-world solo navigation.

Abby Sunderland
Unsinkable: A Young Woman's Courageous Battle on the High Seas

Abby Sunderland grew up sailing. After a 3-year family cruise to mainland Mexico, she began to dream about sailing around the world. After watching her older brother, Zac, successfully sail around the world alone in 2009, she realized that with hard work and perseverance, her own dream to solo circumnavigate could be a reality.

In March of 2010, at the age of 16, Abby became the youngest person ever to sail solo around Cape Horn, considered by many to be the Mount Everest of sailing. Over half way around the world her boat was hit by a rogue wave. Rolled, dismasted and out of communication, Abby had to be rescued from the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Abby's lessons from the sea have taught her a lifetime of wisdom on having passion and purpose in your life. She has chronicled her trip in the book Unsinkable: A Young Woman's Courageous Battle on the High Seas and a documentary of her trip was made called Wild Eyes: The Abby Sunderland Story.

Don't miss hearing Abby tell her tales on January 21 and 22 at the seminar stage!

Canadian Yachting's Island Village

Remember the blue, very blue water, the sun that's so warm it touches your soul, and the irresistible happy faces that make you smile? It is the Caribbean!

Feel the magic again. At Canadian Yachting's Island Village, located in the SailFest section (Hall D) of this year's show, enjoy the authentic island sounds and tastes of the Caribbean, while island country representatives and charter boat companies help design your next vacation!

Mel Fisher's Treasure – The Search for the Atocha and Beyond!

Discover the fun, romance and adventure of treasure hunting! Meet Sean Fisher and hold millions of dollars in authentic shipwreck treasure from the most famous ship wreck in history. The Atocha was a Spanish Galleon that sank in a violent hurricane in 1622 off the coast of Key West, Florida. She was laden with treasure and remained undiscovered until legendary treasure hunter Mel Fisher persevered through a 16 year search to discover nearly half a billion dollars in gold, silver, emeralds and artifacts. Hear stories from the pros about what it's like to find treasure and be the first person to hold an artifact after nearly 400 years. It sends tingles from the top of your head to the tips of your toes, the feeling is indescribable.

Find out how you can join the adventure visit booth G803 and come listen to Sean Fisher tell his stories on the seminar stage January 16, 17, 19, 20 and 21st.

Duma the Famous Waterskiing/
Boat-Driving Dog!

Back by popular demand, Duma is making waves again at the 2012 Toronto International Boat Show.

This six-year-old Jack Russell Terrier not only waterskis but also drives the boat on The Lake! It's an awe-inspiring, entertainment-packed show for the entire family.

Duma will meet her fans for photos and more after each show, twice daily, January 20 - 22. Check out www.perfectpetphotos.com for more Duma photos.

Great Canadian Fish Tank

A 40-foot long aquarium filled with 5,000 gallons of water and stocked with native Ontario marine life, the Great Canadian Fish Tank is the perfect teaching tool for pros to share their tips with anglers of all ages.

It literally provides the fish-eye's view of how fish react to different lures and different techniques.

Daily seminars demonstrate how various fish react to various types of bait, step-by-step casting methods, and the latest tips on how to catch "the big one"!

Check out the 2012 seminar schedule to plan your visit.

New Product Showcase

If there is a new product on the market, one of the first places you'll find it is at the Toronto International Boat Show. The latest and most innovative products from eye-catching boats to handy new boating accessories will be featured at individual exhibitor booths. Just look for the "New Product" starburst sign.

For New Product Showcase highlights, browse the "Product Showcase" section of this website.

Kids Boating Zone

The love of boating can start at any age so start them young at the Kids Boating Zone where the Toronto Boat Show has created a safe and fun place for kids to take a break from navigating the show floor.

Mom and Dad can relax and enjoy a slice of Pizza Pizza while the kids embark on a fun-filled paddleboat ride on our mini-lake specially designed for kids only.

Go Canada Racing

New this year! The Kids Zone is now host to a Nascar brought to you by FISH TV. Stop by and check out the awesome car and talk to the experts. For more great Nascar information check out "Go Canada Racing", Canada's first Canadian Nascar racing team at www.gocanadaracing.com

Andrew Ranger, will be at the Toronto Boat Show doing a meet and greet autograph session in booth G830 on Saturday, January 14 from 12-1pm & 2-3pm. Then again on Sunday, January 15 at 1-2pm. Andrew is the first driver to win a race in all three NASCAR regional series races in one year and 3rd Place Nationwide finish in the 2009 Napa Auto Parts 200, Montreal!

SailFest

The most popular sailing yachts in Canada are open for boarding, and you'll find dinghies and inflatables nearby. Yacht clubs, sailing associations and cruising destinations are onboard as well. Set your compass further north to shop the Industry Building for cruising and racing accessories and the latest electronics.

Kids Fishing Zone

Share the thrill of hooking a big one with the kids at the Kids Fishing Zone – a live trout pond at the Toronto Boat Show. Expert anglers and television hosts Leo Stakos and Ron James of Rogers Sportsnet – Fish TV will take your children from their first cast to their first catch with plenty of laughs in between.

More than 140 Seminars!

Hourly seminars at the Toronto Boat Show entertain, educate and inspire novice and experienced boaters alike – with boating experts from throughout the world sharing their experience and expertise on everything from boating basics to spellbinding boating adventures.

Whether it's sailing around the world, or cruising with your pet, there is sure to be a topic that interests you. Seminars take place at the Presentation Theatre and the Great Canadian Fish Tank Stage.

Check out the seminar schedule to plan your visit!

Derek Hatfield

Derek has represented Canada in three single handed around the world races and has become Canada's most experienced and successful offshore racer. He will talk about his podium finish and record breaking Velux 5 Oceans single handed round the world yacht race and his next steps in a career that has spanned over a decade and 200,00nm single handed racing.

Visit Derek at the seminar stage as he talks about TAKING ON THE WORLD, ALONE and in Sailfest at his booth.

The Classics

Supporting the preservation of Canada's rich and diversified nautical heritage, and evoking wonderful memories of past adventures and family stories, the Antique & Classic Boat Society will have classic wooden and fibreglass boats on display at the 2011 show.

Step back into history, and experience the evolution, workmanship, and innovation that brought us to the boats we continue to enjoy today.

Visit this display in the Galleria Lobby.

Steamboat Arezoo

The steamboat Arezoo is the vision of IMAX co-founder Robert Kerr. Unfinished at the time of his death, his daughters decided to complete their father's dream.

Arezoo is a replica of an English Edwardian gentleman's steam launch, circa 1900, and would have been used as a yacht tender or simply as an elegant means of transportation. Arezoo, built to extremely high standards, is twenty six feet in length, six feet in beam and powered by a compound 15HP steam engine of Bellis design. She has the advantage of being built using modern techniques while retaining the graceful lines and unmistakeable look of a period antique.

Stop by Cottage Country E149 to see the graceful beauty of Arezoo.

Safety First

Learn about the importance of Boating Safety, a variety of free boating safety seminars offered by The Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons. Topics range from, First Aid on the Water to Choosing the right Personal Flotation Device (pfd). Be prepared and be informed!
Seminars run each afternoon in Salon 105.

Click here for the schedule.

Atlantic Challenge Canada
& Youth Boatworks

Atlantic Challenge programs use replica naval gigs from the late 18th Century to teach sailing, rowing and traditional seamanship skills to youth. Programs have been offered in Canada since 1992 with the newest addition in Toronto, Youth Boatworks.

Youth Boatworks volunteers completed the newest 38-foot Canadian Atlantic Challenge Gig, Diversité complete with three masts and 10 oars. The boat was used on the Toronto waterfront throughout the summer of 2011 providing an opportunity for youth to experience the thrill of rowing and sailing.

Every two years one of the 13 international member countries hosts an event and youth teams travel from around the globe with their boats to compete in an eight-day contest. In the summer of 2012, Atlantic Challenge Canada will be sending a boat to Bantry, Ireland to make up a fleet of 16 longboats in the next international event. Positions are still available to become a Canadian crew member.

Located in SailFest (Hall D).

One Girl's Ocean Challenge

Skipper Diane Reid represents the team of One Girl's Ocean Challenge, campaigning to participate in the 2013 Mini Transat Race from France to Brazil.

Diane will join 100 competitors racing single-handedly across 4,200 nautical miles in her 21-foot open class Mini Transat Sailboat.

Visit Diane and her boat in SailFest (Hall D) and learn more about her dream to race in one of France's most popular and publicized sports!

Special Preview Night

Mark your calendar now for the
Special Preview Night - Friday, January 13, 2012.

The evening is a truly unique shopping experience! Guests can preview the show's 550 marine exhibits while enjoying live entertainment and delicious food and beverage. Plus, they have the opportunity to bid on live & silent auction items – including the latest in marine accessories and gifts with the proceeds going to charity. Tickets also include, one return ticket to the show valid (January 14 - 22)

First launched in 2000, to date the Toronto Boat Show's "Special Preview Night - has raised more than $560,000 for charities

Check back shortly for more details on the Special Preview Night.

To purchase a ticket click here.

Online Contests:
Put Some Summer in Your Winter!
Win Boat Show Prize Packages!

• Special Preview Night, Hotel & Maple Leaf Ticket Package!
• Boat Show, Maple Leaf Tickets & Hotel Package!
• 2012 Boat Show Ticket Packages

Click here for more details.

Cottage Country

There's something about being in cottage country that always puts you at ease and the quickest route there is through the Toronto Boat Show.

In the East Annex (next to The Lake) you'll find everything you need to complete the cottage experience – waterskis, canoes, kayaks, and a boatload of different gizmos and gadgets.

While you're stopping by the full-size cottage built by Confederation Log Homes, check out the selection of outdoor gear, docks and swimwear.

Careers In Boating

There's nothing better than making your passion your profession. Just ask those working in the recreational boating industry!

With fewer individuals coming up through the ranks to fill voids left by those retiring, the industry is experiencing a shortage of properly trained and skilled people. Currently, the main shortage is marine engine technicians, those who service and repair boats. Marine engine technician training is suitable for all ages and backgrounds and more specifically those straight out of high school and those in mid-life looking for a change or an exciting new career. Many also find the program provides a strong base for careers in other areas of the industry such as management, sales, distribution and human resources.

To learn how to become part of the recreational boating industry, visit www.careersinboating.com and talk to representatives from participating colleges or members of Boating Ontario.

Be sure to visit the Marine Engine Technician students from the Midland Campus of Georgian College that will be participating in live demonstrations.

Get Your Pleasure Craft Operators Card

On September 15th, 2009, it became law that ALL operators of power-driven pleasure craft must carry proof of competency onboard at all times. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is considered proof of competency, and you can write a PCOC exam at the Toronto Boat Show to earn your card, which is good for life.

For more information on educational programs to gain the knowledge needed to write the PCOC test, and on writing the test, visit any of the following booths at the show:

• BoaterExam.com, Booth G314
• BoatSmart! Canada, Booth G326, 1711, The Lake
• Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons, Booth 1828
• Forensic & Nautical Consultants of Canada Inc., Booth E326
• Safe Boater, Booth S3

Exclusive Boat Show Specials

Celebrating 53 years as the best place to see and buy boats, accessories and services, Canada's premiere boat show boasts more than 1,200 boats and hundreds of booths showcasing the latest in engines, electronics, marine gifts and accessories.

From fishing to cruising and family fun there are boats for every lifestyle, activity and budget. And there's no better time to buy. Offering exclusive onsite special deals, the Toronto Boat Show allows you to compare makes and models, secure insurance and financing, and gear up with the latest accessories – all at one time, under one roof!

As you navigate the show watch for Boat Show Special signs identifying deals available only during the nine days of the show!