15th Annual Boat Show Jan 3-6, 2008. Over 270 exhibitors, power, sail, fishing, kayaks, inflatables, seminars, etc. Things to do in Providence, lodging and restaurants.

52nd Annual NEW ENGLAND BOAT SHOW, January 12-20, 2008. Information for the Boston Boat Show event can be found by referring to this article.

Check out the Chicago Sailboat Show, January 31st to February 3rd, 2008.

Information for the Atlantic City Boat Show, February 6th to February 10th 2008 can be found here.

Providence Boat Show

The 15th annual Providence Boat Show will be earlier than usual this year. From Thursday, January 3 to Sunday, January 6th, 2008, boats of all sizes and makes will be displayed for viewing. This show isn't all about boats either. There are also booths for fishing gear, marinas, finance companies, jewelry, magazine publishers, boating schools, electronics, marine towing services, and marine outfitters like Defender and Boater's World. There are seminars, give-a-ways, discounts and plenty of other booths with diesel engines, motors and sportswear.

Show Times:

• Thursday, January 3 ~ 12:00pm - 8:00pm
• Friday, January 4 ~ 10:00am - 8:00pm
• Saturday, January 5 ~ 10:00am - 8:00pm
• Sunday, January 6 ~ 10:00am - 5:00pm

Ticket Prices:

• Adults and children over 12 ~ $12.00
• Children under 12 ~ free with an adult

Short List of Boats on Display:

Back Cove, Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Carver, Cruisers Yachts, Formula, Larson, Mako, Marquis, Maxum, Sailfish, Sea Ray, Silverton, Stingray, Triumph, Trophy, Wellcraft, Hobie, Sunfish, Achilles, Avon, Mercury and Zodiac.

Sample of Seminars:

Chart Navigation, Radar Navigation, Becoming a Licensed Captain, Tuna Tactics, Freshwater Bass Fishing, Boat Handling Basics, Vessel Deliveries, Using GPS Chartplotters and many more.

Directions: RI Interstate 95 Exit 22A. The Dunkin' Donuts Center will be visible from the highway. Follow signs to the Rhode Island Convention Center, 1 Sabin Street, Providence, RI, 02903.

With a population of over 175,000, Providence has taken on the name "The Renaissance City". Rich in history, it is a revitalized city that is full of great restaurants, luxury accommodations and shopping. Whether you're a boater or a landlubber, Providence and the surrounding communities has something for the entire family.

Things to do in Providence: Roger William's Park Zoo, Fleet Skating Center, Providence Children's Museum, Providence Place Mall (150 stores, 16 theaters and an Imax theater), Rhode Island School of Design and historic Newport is a short 30 mile drive.

Restaurants in Providence: Federal Hill is known as Little Italy and has many Italian restaurants to pick from. Julian's, Hemenway's Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, Chez Pascal Restaurant and Dave and Busters are nearby. There's a Dunkin' Donuts or Starbucks on nearly every corner and along with plenty of small cafe's and breakfast eateries you won't have far to go. Providence clubs and a vibrant night-life are just a walk away.

Lodging in Providence:

• The Westin Providence, 1 West Exchange Street, Providence, 02903, 401-598-8000. Adjacent to the show, family-friendly, pet-friendly hotel with 364 rooms, health club, wi-fi, indoor pool, restaurant. From $149.00 per night.
• Hilton Providence, 21 Atwells Avenue, Providence, 02903, 401-831-3900. 274 rooms. Adjacent to the show, wi-fi, indoor pool, restaurant. From $119.00 per night.
• Providence Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence,02903, 401421-0700. 2 blocks from the show, 289 rooms, restaurant, wi-fi, fitness center, spa. From $139.00 per night.

The Downside: Even though parking garages are plentiful, they can be expensive, especially during an event like the Providence Boat Show. The closer you park, the higher the rates. You can find cheaper parking if you don't mind hoofing it a bit. Traffic is often bumper-to-bumper during rush hour. Plan your travel accordingly.

Take a culinary trip and Eat Your Way Through Rhode Island.

Go on a few Wine Tastings in Newport Rhode Island.

Prices (US dollars), policies and information are subject to change. Call show and hotels to verify.

Sources: boatworldri.com, starwoodhotels.com, hilton.com, providencebiltmore.com, tripadvisor.com, mapquest.com, providenceboatshow.com, silverton.com,cruisers.com,carveryachts.com