Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show March 3-5

On March 1st in 2020, the annual Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show had just concluded a weekend with beautiful weather, record-setting attendance, and dealers reporting yet another year of tremendous sales.

Then, less than two weeks later, the Covid virus changed almost everything, including boating as demand skyrocketed as families took to more outdoor activities.

This brought additional challenges as manufacturers battled production shutdowns and supply chain issues resulting in an inventory shortage. But like a fisherman getting back at it after a tough trip, today is like a new day on the water for boating and the Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show, which returns to its picturesque home venue at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach, next to Pier Park March 3-5.

"Even in the past few years when we couldn't have the show because our dealer and lifestyle partners didn't have the necessary inventory, we knew once that challenge was resolved, we'd be able to bring the show back," said Chris Miller of Wheels Up Events which hosts the event. "This show helped us expand our business from having just one location in Orange Beach to adding a new store in Panama City Beach," said Chris Bazor of Grander Marine, who also recently opened a third store in Port St. Joe. "So having it back in 2023 will be very impactful once again for our business locally."

The event showcases the latest in boating, marine equipment, and other lifestyle products. The show features a wide variety of boats, including powerboats, sailboats, and personal watercraft, as well as accessories, electronics, and other marine-related products. Attendees can also enjoy seminars and demonstrations on topics such as boating safety, navigation, and maintenance.

One of the highlights of the show is the opportunity to see and board a variety of boats, from small inflatables to large yachts. Many of the boats on display are available for purchase, and show attendees can speak with representatives from the manufacturers and dealers to learn more about the features and options available.

Chuck O'Neill of Legendary Marine of Panama City Beach knows his dealership has always attracted lots of attention at the show in years past. Their very prominent display is filled with a wide variety of boat models and manufacturers appealing to most anyone in the market for a boat. O'Neill expects the show in March to be much like past shows.

"The demand is certainly here in this market. The show has always allowed us to showcase our boats, connect with new customers or see old friends. The time is right for this show to return!"

In addition to hundreds of boats, the Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show lives up to its billing with an ever-expanding line-up of products for anyone who loves living or visiting the Emerald Coast. Street-legal golf carts, paddle boards, electric bikes, personal watercraft, fishing tackle and seminars, outdoor furniture, along with service providers for everything from boat maintenance to installing your new dock, will be at Aaron Bessant Park the first weekend in March. For a complete list of exhibitors, more information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.EmeraldCoastBoatShow.com.