This year's gala event at Kansas City, The annual (and much awaited) Kansas City Boat Show began with much aplomb and celebration, chiefly owing to the success of the preceding years. As expected, the expo highlighted the growing prospects and strengths of the American boating industry mainly through their innovative displays and attractions. Boats of every imaginable shape and size, for every possible purpose were on display. From houseboats, hovercrafts, car floats, and pontoons to skis, shikaras kayaks and motor boats - you name it, they had it. Even luxury yachts and ships were showcased with the same professionalism. It would not be an overstated fact that this was one of their best efforts in their entire history. And to attract more customers and traders to enable them to more business this time, the 3 day event was expanded into a 6 day one.

The chief attractions were the Customized Boat gallery where live demonstrations of boats and marine equipment were given, even offering trials to prospective buyers. It was much appreciated by the visitors at it gave them a chance to experience the features of a particular exhibit live!

Alex Ton, the owner of a local shipping company was delighted by this new feature. ?I used to be very confused earlier when I wanted to buy something for my company, but this hands-on experience enabled me to use a boat live, clearing any doubts I had,? he said. Same was the response from many other guests.

Then there was the Nautical Pilots Camp ? an area exclusive for sailors and boatmen to come together and discuss their experiences and lives. A fashionable entry from last year, this attraction helped in amassing people from diverse walks of marine life. ?It sure feels great to meet more people from my profession in such an interactive environment. I never knew a Boat show could be this thrilling,? shared Winston Pe, a retired sailor. ?Sadly, we never got to use the modern boats and gears and equipment that is available today. The future seems really bright.?

Moreover, loads of naval magazine subscriptions were being sold at rock-bottom prices. Even boating club memberships of prestigious yacht and boating clubs were being given to those interested. So one had plenty of reasons to visit this grand affair even if trading or dealing in boats and naval equipment was not one's trade.

On the whole, the stall holds and exhibitioners did a total business in excess of 50 million while the exact figure is undisclosed. ?This year, the total number of visitors was a great deal more than the year before. Our marketing campaigns have worked wonders raking in many without a sense of purpose, only adventure,? told Wilma, a member of the organizing committee. ?Adding to this, the increased number of days also helped a lot. Many people wanted to know what actually was a boat show as they had not seen one before. I guess they chose the right place because the Kansas City Boat Show had a lot to offer besides boats and gear.?