Boat Show in Boston

Who went to the boat show in Boston?

I went and thoroughly enjoyed the show this year. Truthfully, I thought it was "a breath of fresh air." People were excited and enthusiastic about all the new boats.

Reports from the annual winter boat show in Boston indicated attendance was up and many happy people purchased boats. Exhibitors said they did "better than they expected."

As I was standing next to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary booth, I overheard new boaters asking questions. One person turned to me and asked, "What does your boat mean to you?"

Maybe I was caught by surprise by the question, but once I started answering, I couldn't stop. "To me, it is a way of life. A necessity. A second home. A vessel to freedom and adventure. Boat ownership is a way to have fun and bring family and friends together. To go on vacation. To hang out on the dock" The man gave a big smile, said "thanks" and then asked what's the key to making sure that he would have the same feelings about his boat. The answer is "simple," I said. "The key is where you KEEP your boat. There is no better place than the brand new Hingham Shipyard Marinas complex. The marina is a full service marina."

In case you haven't seen or heard, the historic Hingham Shipyard is being transformed into a "destination marina village." There will be 8 restaurants, Movie Theaters, 40 stores, Fresh Market, Fitness Club, plus luxury residences.

On my way home from the boat show, I heard on the radio that Daylight Savings Time happens early this year. We spring forward one hour March 8th. I just checked my tide chart to confirm that fact. The sun will be setting at 7 o'clock. Thoughts of getting the boat ready for the season quickly come to mind now with the longer days.

No bad news here!

Capt Lou

Ahoy!

Ahoy Boaters at the Hingham Shipyard Marinas!

Welcome to the Hingham Shipyard Marinas "BLOG." I am Captain Lou, host of "Nautical Talk Radio" (www.NauticalTalk.com) and I will be bringing you the latest news and happenings for you via this BLOG to enjoy keeping your boats at the Hingham Shipyard Marinas. I look forward to meeting all of you, and hope you participate in this BLOG by adding your comments.

If it has to do with the Hingham Shipyard Marinas, hot spots for fishing, visiting the Boston Harbor Islands, or boating news in general, we will keep you informed, but it is important for us to hear from you!

As you know, we have a lot happening this year in, on, and around the water. New housing, shops, restaurants, and movie theaters will be opened this Spring at the former Hingham shipyard, which will make our marinas the number one place to dock your boat. In addition, the Hingham Shipyard Marinas will be offering during the summer a weekly "SPEAKER SERIES" in the new clubhouse, a fishing tournament, and lots of fun "get togethers" for the entire family. We will also keep you informed about sailing regattas and races in our area.

With the boat show opening February 14th and continuing to the 22nd at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, it won't be long now before the winter shrink wrapping comes off and we will be starting our engines.

Let's forget about these Winter blues and think BOATING!

Capt Lou