Explore: Showcase of boats gets new name, location

A change of venue has resulted in a name change and even more boats at the renamed B.C. Boat Show, today until Sunday at the Port Sidney Marina.

The floating spectacle — now the largest floating boat show in the province — will appeal to those new to the boating scene, the experienced sailor, those on a modest budget or individuals with fat wallets wanting only the best.

Hosted by the B.C. Yacht Brokers Association, the show was previously named the Victoria Inner Harbour Boat Show. This year, brokers and marine vendors from all over the Pacific Northwest will showcase the on-the-water lifestyle in Sidney instead.

The move allows space for even more boats for visitors to explore, with in excess of 1,000 metres of dock space lined with boats of all shapes and sizes.

There will be Ranger Tugs, demonstration boats from the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue as well as luxury yachts, sailboats, power boats, fishing boats and more.

Sea trials will be available in the sheltered waters of Haro Strait.

Everything from outboards, dinghies, navigation equipment, rigging, boat yards, chandlery, clothing and a host of boating and fishing gear will be for sale on the floating pavilion.

Chat with the team from SALTS Sail and Life Training Society, volunteers from Search and Rescue and experts from the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron.

You can also find out about boating and how to get started for your boater’s licence.

As a bonus, the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea will offer discounted admission for visitors to the show over the weekend.

The Town of Sidney encourages show participants to explore all the town. Artists at ArtSea will feature a ‘plein air’ painting event, with up to 50 artists on the waterfront, sketching and painting, on Saturday.

Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students and free for children 16 and under (with paying adult), or $20 for a weekend pass in advance online.

The show runs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Port Sidney Marina, 9835 Seaport Pl., Sidney. For more information, go to bcyba.com.