Oct 28: Golden Tips

The golden anniversary edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is now officially open. Yay! That means boat folks from all over the world are here. Everyone from megayacht sellers to kayak paddlers, from longtime boat captains to first-time boat buyers. The event runs through Monday and is spread over six locations. These include the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center at the southern end all the way north through the Las Olas Municipal Marina. The trick is getting from one place to another. So I thought a few tips from a local might be helpful right about now.

I have friends who simply walk a mile or so to the boat show and if you're staying anywhere nearby, this is a pretty good idea. Maybe you're in a hotel on Federal Highway near 17^th Street, for example. Most people would be tempted to drive from there, but I'd suggest just walking to the convention center instead. It's a pleasant stroll, really, and feels wonderful being free of a car.

For many of us, though, walking isn't an option. No problem. I think a fun way to arrive at the boat show is by water, so consider snagging a free riverboat at the Las Olas Riverfront - corner of SW 1^st Avenue and SW 2^nd Street. It will float you directly to the Bahia Mar Yachting Center at the very heart of the show. There's plenty of parking in the Riverfront area too, including two huge garages not far from the pickup point. You can also think about taking a free shuttle bus to the show from the War Memorial parking lot on Federal Highway and Sunrise Boulevard. Easy parking and the buses run frequently. No matter where you park, of course, you should plan on walking a lot. I mean, a lot. So wear comfortable shoes, ideally something that you can take off without much hassle. That's because they won't let you on board most boats with your shoes on. Otherwise just go, wander, relax and have fun. The peoplewatching alone offers good sport at the boat show. All kinds of people, young and old, wealthy and poor, serious boaters and wannabe boaters. Then there are ... all ... those ... boats. Wow. It's a spectacle for sure, the world's largest boat show. And now the show is in its 50^th year. Have fun. Oh yeah, and BOO! Happy Halloween too!