St. Clair Shores Businesses Featured at the Detroit Boat Show

The past week motorists on local roads may have seen a number of boats "cruising" down to Cobo Center.

Boats of all sizes were transported recently to Cobo Center for the 55th Detroit Boat Show which opens Saturday and runs through Feb. 24.

The vessels will be on display along with services and suppliers from businesses in St. Clair Shores, and other waterfront communities.

Representatives from the Nautical Mile Merchants Association will be in attendance throughout the show to promote city and the marina and entertainment district.

"It is a great way for us to promote our businesses," said Donna Flaherty, president of the Nautical Mile Merchants Association.

The show has been expanded to two halls at Cobo this year, and is 35 percent larger than the 2012 event.

“Boating is back, nationwide the industry saw a 10 percent increase in powerboat sales in 2012 and we’re expecting another 10 percent increase in 2013,” said Show Manager Nicki Polan, in a release.

Some of the local exhibitors include:

• Colony Marine
• Emerald City Harbor
• Jefferson Beach Marina
• Mikes Marine Supply

Attractions at the show include:

• Appearances by Trigger Tommy and Trapper Joe from the television series "Swamp People" Feb. 16-17
• SpongeBob SquarePants Feb. 16-17
• Battle of Lake Erie Bicentennial Pavilion
• Waterwalkerz and rock and roll on water
• Quadski concept boat that goes from land to water in 4 seconds

Admission to the boat show is $12 for adults; children 12 and under are free with an adult, and seniors over 62 receive free admission on Monday.

Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturdays, Monday and Friday; 11 a.m - 6 p.m. Sundays and 3 - 9 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

For more information visit the boat show website.