Some of the finest skiffs, center consoles and marine products will be on display as the Island Boat Show returns for another year at a new location.
For years, Hawk’s Cay Resort on Duck Key served as the venue for the event that’s organized by Island Community Church in Islamorada. This year, however, the bevy of boats will be situated on the church grounds at 83400 Overseas Highway. Event organizer Annie Reckwerdt said the boat show committee decided to make the move. Still, it didn’t take long for the show to fill up with boats.
“I’m so happy and proud to report that 81 boats are coming this year,” Reckwerdt said. “We sold out, but we’re trying to squeeze room to fit some last-minute people.”
Set for Friday-Sunday, Jan. 20-22, dealers from the Keys and South Florida will make their way to the sportfishing capital of the world. Chief Marine Group, Caribee Marine, Seven Sports Marine, Marine Connection, TCB Boat Sales and Plantation Boat Mart are some of the local dealers that will be in attendance. They’ll be joined by marine-related businesses, such as SeaTow and Tri-Sea Keeper, and various nonprofits.
Attendees can view some of the newest boats on the market and check out fishing seminars, as well as see some local artwork. There will also be food trucks and a silent auction, a raffle and more.
Proceeds from the Florida Keys’ premier boat show support scholarships for local students and missions of the Island Community Church. Over the last two years, the show has doled out $100,000 in scholarships to local college students. Reckwerdt said Pastor Trevor Mann has committed $50,000 in event earnings to scholarships this year.
With boats and funds raised for local endeavors also comes community involvement. Reckwerdt said 80% of the Island Community Church congregation volunteers their time during the event. And so do people outside the ICC community.
“It’s truly amazing,” she said.
A $10 donation (those under 18 are free) gets people in for all three days of the boat show, so bring the family and friends.
For more information, visit islandboatshow.com.
