Atlantans looking to shake cabin fever can thaw themselves, at least in spirit, with some summer time escapism amidst the clutches of winter.
The 49th annual Atlanta Boat Show still has its course set to open Thursday for a four-day run at the Georgia World Congress Center.
The doors, however, are opening a little later than originally scheduled. Beginning at 3 p.m. visitors can view hundreds of boats, and troll for deals on marine accessories and electronics.
We threw out a net and snagged a few highlights to be found through Sunday at the Atlanta Boat Show.
SHIP SHAPE
Among the countless craft packing the convention hall are some not-to-miss creations. Miss GEICO lays claim as one of the fastest offshore racing boats on the planet. Brought to life by turbine engines that flew missions in the first Gulf War, it can cut through water at more than 185 mph. The Tupolev 007, a Russian rescue boat on steroids, comes straight out of the Cold War. It’s the only one of three still in one piece and boasts a $2 million price tag. Luxury vessels include the 47-foot Sea Ray 470 Sundancer and The Queen, a 42-foot Marquis 420 Sport Bridge that’s making its U.S. debut at the show. More accessible boats can be found in the Affordability Pavilion, an area spotlighting boats that can financed for $250 per month or less.
CAST A LINE
Fishing enthusiasts have plenty to get their lines tangled about. The Let’s Go Fishing Center offers free seminars each day, complete with live demonstrations touching on both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Guests get the thrill of a nature documentary right in front of their eyes while watching bass react to and strike various lures and bait in a 5,000 gallon aquarium. And kids 12 and younger can experience trout fishing for free at the portable catch-and-release pond.
EXTREME INDOORS
The Distortion Boarding-Extreme Rail Jam takes place in a 30,000 gallon landing pool featuring some of the country’s best wakeboarders showing off their skills. They perform stunts and tricks while being pulled by the Grinch Winch, a towing device that pulls the wakeboarders as fast as 25 mph. Performers include Brandon Lee, Brett Lee, Rhett Whatley and Corey Bradley. Wakeboarding royalty Parks Bonifay will perform, too, and he’ll be signing at the Watersports Central/MasterCraft Booth 6 p.m. Friday, 3 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday.
HIP TO BE SQUAREPANTS
Fans of the Nickelodeon animated TV show SpongeBob SquarePants can rub tentacles with the star. He’ll be putting down his Krabby Patty and posing for pictures with fans from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Atlanta Boat Show. 3-9 p.m. Jan. 13; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 14; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 15; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 16. $9; free ages 15 and younger. Georgia World Congress Center, 285 International Blvd. N.W., Atlanta. 404-222-5200, www.atlantaboatshow.com.
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