It’s hard to think about soaking in the sun while boating on a lake when there’s snow, ice and below freezing temperatures in Minnesota. But right now is actually the perfect time to get into that lake life mindset, especially in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. What better way to daydream about warmer days than to cruise over to the 2019 Progressive® Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show®. Although I absolutely love winters in Minnesota, I totally do live for the days on open water and all of the water recreation that comes with it.
The Minneapolis Boat Show is anchoring down for its 47th year at the Minneapolis Convention Center, January 24-27. It’s a chance to learn about the latest in the boating world, discover new products, talk to the experts or even shop for your dream boat before the upcoming boating season. I created a short list of highlights you should definitely check out at this one-stop-shop for all things boating. From pontoons to fishing boats, hunting boats, yachts, jet skis, wakeboard boats, kayaks, paddle boards and boating accessories — you’ll find it all at the boat show.
BONUS: I even have a boat show discount code just for stopping by to read this guide. Use promo code: BOATGO for a buy one, get one free ticket offer. It’s good for online tickets which you can buy through THIS LINK until midnight, January 24, 2019.
MINNESOTA-MADE PRODUCTS
Minnesota is one of the top five boating states, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. So it’s no surprise that some boat-related products are made right here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. One of the newest boats made in Minnesota is the world’s first luxury fiberglass electric pontoon, by ELUX Marine. Find out where the ELUX Marine pontoon is located at the show here and click on the floor plan.
There’s also the Dock Bot, a smarter boat lift that combines cloud service with security and boat lift control. It’s an internet-enabled smart lift management system. It can raise and lower your lift, monitor your boat and lift with a camera, secure it and illuminate the lift area. Control your lift from anywhere.
Be sure to check out Fitzke Paddle Board Co.‘s handmade mahogany wood paddle boards by master craftsman and designer Kevin Fitzke.
Say goodbye to a trailer full of weeds. The Aqua Weed Stick is a new tool that easily removes weeds from boat trailers and invented by Minnesota millennial entrepreneurs Michaela Anderson and Justin Kofoed.
Also, check out Nauti-Steps to keep the sand off your feet and boat, Northern Lights Engineer Fender & Bumper Hanger and Zebra Mussel Mania.
ISLAND EXPERIENCE
Escape winter’s bitter cold wrath at the Island Experience. It’s an oasis complete with gazebos, boats, a lounge area and live music featuring Elijah Adam Tom Harkness and Erin Chase from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., presented by Mick Sterling. It’s located at booth 803.
INNOVATION AWARDS
The Minneapolis Innovation Awards recognizes companies that bring new, innovative products to the boating industry. It’s always fun to see brilliant minds come together to make products that improve life on the lake. There are nine entrants in 2019 that will be judged by Boating Writers International. Awards will be announced at a private reception on Wednesday, January 23.
TWIN CITIES BEACH BLAST
This year, the Twin Cities Beach Blast is combining two of Minnesota’s favorite events: the Milk Carton Boat Races and Sandcastle Competition. Watch sand castle champions of the past put their skills to the test as they build intricate sand sculptures. Kids are also invited to build a milk carton boat or help with the sand sculptures.
ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC BOAT DISPLAY
Something new and something old. In a sea of brand new, beautiful shiny boats, you’ll also find antique and classic boats at the Minneapolis Boat Show. Don’t miss out on a completely restored 1940 23′ Chris-Craft Custom Runabout. Cruise around and get a taste of the old school boat life by going on a virtual vintage boat ride.
Be sure to follow @mplsboatshow on Instagram and Facebook. Use hashtag #mplsboatshow. I want to see your pics as you voyage through the aisles of all the boats! Follow my Instagram stories on Wednesday, January 23rd at @girlof10000lakes as I give you behind-the-scenes access to the Progressive Insurance Minneapolis Boat Show.