Marine craft showcase not to be missed

The 12th edition of the prestigious Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show, South Africa’s biggest boating and outdoor lifestyle event on and around water, will be taking place at the Durban Marina over the weekend of 17 to 19 July.

The show presents a variety of marine craft, from one-man dinghies to exotic million-Rand yachts and catamarans, and in addition showcases luxury off-road vehicles, 4x4s, caravans, fishing tackle and accessories – a dream come true for the outdoor enthusiast. Several marquees will be erected around the Durban Marina area and boats will be moored in the Marina itself, as well as being showcased on the surrounding areas.

The main attractions include the very popular cardboard boat race (which will be sponsored by Pack Now, a packaging supply store based in Glen Anil), Simply Sailing Regatta, Halcat Racing, wild rides on the SAS Raptor, the adrenalin pumping semi-submersible Sea-Breacher and, for the less adventurous, free massages on the Spirit d’Sulis, a luxury catamaran. There are a host of other activities, entertainment for children and food stalls selling mouth-watering cuisine, ensuring that the Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show is an event for all ages.

“It’s the perfect outdoor event for families during the school holidays and the ultimate event for boating and outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts. This year we have a few amazing surprises along with spot prizes for visitors. All round, it’s going to be an exciting weekend in Durban,” says event organiser, Barry Meehan.

Over 6 000m² of parking space will be available next to Hakuna Matata Charters, just past Café Fish, at R5 per vehicle. All proceeds from the parking will go to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), which will be on hand to ensure that there is very little traffic disruption. Further parking space will be available at Wilson’s Wharf, with the option of a harbour ferry or shuttle bus to take visitors to the show.

Tickets are R50 for adults and R30 for kids over 12 and senior citizens. Kids under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets will be available at both entrances of the show. Gates open at 9.30am until 5pm on Friday, 17 and Saturday, 18 July, and from 9.30am to 4pm on Sunday, 19 July.

For more information, visit the boat show website – www.durbanboatshow.co.za – or call 031 266 9828.