The Orlando Boat Show is returning to the Orange County Convention Center, featuring 22 of Central Florida’s top boat dealers representing more than 80 manufacturers, with approximately 500 boats on display.
The Marine Industry Association of Central Florida (MIACF) will present the Orlando Boat Show, a three-day event on August 23rd, 24th, and 25th at the Orange County Convention Center, West Hall B and C.
The 2024 Orlando Boat Show features a wide variety of boats, including bowriders, center consoles, deck boats, flats boats, freshwater fishing boats, jet boats, pontoons, and surf boats to fit any lifestyle and budget.
Extra incentives are available only during the show from dealers and manufacturers such as extended warranties, service packages, waived dockage, enhanced electronics, and accessory packages.
“This year’s Orlando Boat Show is set to be an exceptional event for both seasoned boaters and newcomers. With the best boat selection we’ve seen in years and fantastic deals, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss,” said Joe Lewis, general manager of Mount Dora Boating Center and Marina and president of MIACF. “Families can look forward to kids’ fishing seminars, interactive displays, and even a visit from Gatorland with their critters. It’s an event for the whole family to enjoy.”
Lewis added that the boating lifestyle offers numerous benefits, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. “We know that being near, on, or in the water promotes happiness and health. Let us show you how.”
Recent research shows that people experience emotional, behavioral, and psychological benefits being near, in, on, or underwater, and while participating in activities like boating. Organizers of the event say the effect of boating on our lives and its fundamental connection to our planet’s waters are well documented from an economic, ecological, and educational perspective.
Ticket prices are $10 per person and are available for purchase online at or the gate with cashless pay only. Kids under the age of 12 are free. Orange County Convention Center parking is $10.65 with cashless pay only.
All events are included in show admission.
There will be a new Gatorland Wrangler on the Way Animal meet & greet. Known as the Alligator Capital of the World®, Gatorland is bringing its thrilling adventure to the Orlando Boat Show. Prepare to be amazed by a diverse array of incredible animals, including alligators and snakes. Their expert handlers will deliver a captivating presentation, offering an up-close look at the extraordinary wildlife that the park is famous for. The animals are available for photo ops, and Gatorland will have a booth at the event where guests can learn more about the park, and purchase discounted admission tickets for a future visit.
Captain Don Dingman, as seen on the Sportsman Channel’s Hook The Future TV show, presents kid’s fishing clinics and interactive discussions of basic fishing techniques, tackle, safety, and conservation. Kids ages 5-15 receive a free rod and reel combo following each clinic while supplies last.
Additional activation areas include:
- Themed stratosphere throughout the show includes the Longshoreman comedic street performers, a pirate magician, and a mermaid on stilts (performance times vary).
- Kids age 12 and under can catch a live fish at the Let’s Go Fishing Trout Pond and receive a custom caricature driving a boat by Cartoon You Caricatures.
- Try the Virtual Saltwater Fishing Simulator to experience the excitement of competition to catch a bull dolphin.
- The Fishing Zone is devoted to all types of fishing gear including freshwater and saltwater rod and reels, freshwater, and saltwater lures, clothing for a great day on the water, and all types of fishing gear and accessories.
- Crack the Code and Win a 2024 21FSX valued at $40,000. Register for the “Crack the Code Contest” for a chance to win a 2024 21FSX bay boat sponsored by Boaters Exchange.
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), while new boat sales are expected to remain relatively flat in 2024, boating expenditures are likely to remain strong as the industry approaches spring and summer boating activity. With the surge in boat sales during the pandemic, it’s expected Americans will continue to take to the water in large numbers this year given the unique social and wellness benefits boating delivers. NMMA reports that manufacturers are focused on delivering innovative new products and will showcase emerging technologies at winter boat shows across the country, from hydrogen-fueled engines to boats powered fully by sustainable fuels.
The Central Florida marine industry generates $6.412 billion in annual economic impact, with 23,892 jobs supported and 851 businesses supported. Plus, 95% of boats sold in the U.S. are built in the United States.
Created in 1989, the Marine Industry Association of Central Florida is a not-for-profit trade organization focused on the sound growth of the marine industry for the benefit of its members and their customers, local communities, and the environment. MIACF is comprised of more than 30 members in Brevard County, Lake County, Orange County, Osceola County, Seminole County, and Volusia County and is the owner and producer of the Orlando Boat Show and the Daytona Beach Boat Show, coming up September 6th-8th at the Ocean Center.
