Opening of the 11th Boat and Water Sports Show - Informative, fun and great
for planning your summer vacation!

MONTREAL , Jan. 28 /CNW Telbec/ - The Association Maritime du Québec (AMQ) is pleased to present the 2010 Boat and Water Sports Show, from January 28 to February 1 at Place Bonaventure. Whether you love fishing or extreme sports, or simply enjoy nature and pleasure boating, there's something for everyone at this major event. Because boating in Quebec is accessible to all!

The public is invited to come and discover new trends in boat outfitting and design, including the latest models for 2010, as well as what's new in accessories and gear. On the program: talks, exhibitions, activities for kids, a fashion show and demonstrations that will appeal to every taste. And it's an ideal opportunity to start planning your summer vacation with family or friends or a romantic getaway at one of Quebec's many nautical destinations. It's both informative and fun!

"The Toronto Boat Show two weeks ago was a huge success, and the economic situation is definitely improving, so we're convinced that the 11th Montreal Boat and Water Sports Show will follow this same trend. We've already seen lots of enthusiasm, with all the available spots on site rented by exhibitors. They're very keen to welcome the thousands of visitors who will discover the many joys and facets of the world of pleasure boating and water sports," said Yves Paquette, general manager of the Association Maritime du Québec.

The latest innovations in boating products and services

The public is invited to the 2010 Boat and Water Sports Show to view more than 400 models of boats and learn about the services offered by nearly 150 exhibitors. It will also be possible to obtain a boating license on site, given that a new law will be coming into effect. Talk about combining business with pleasure! A complete listing of speakers, attractions and new features is attached. The new Québec-Lévis nautical station will be officially opened during the Boat and Water Sports Show. The event will bring together the many boating enthusiasts in the Quebec City region, an outstanding boating destination that forms a link between Quebec City and Lévis.

Presentations and activities for every taste

This year's program features at least a dozen presentations by well-known speakers including Georges Leblanc, a well-known Quebec skipper, Patrick Campeau champion master fisherman, and Derek Hatfield , another famous skipper who will give a talk about his Spirit of Canada race. Many other speakers will also use sound and images to describe sea journeys to incredible lands. It's perfect for those who want to dream or head off on their own adventure one day!

New this year, there will be an indoor lake that will feature demonstrations of many small-scale motorized models. Visitors will be able to see the great dexterity required to handle some of these small-scale models. This activity will no doubt appeal to the entire family. As well, the fashion shows will be back again this year, by popular demand.

Under the artistic direction of Rollande St-Amant, a well-known figure in the world of sports apparel, the fashion shows, which will be presented periodically throughout the Boat Show, will give visitors a sneak preview of this summer's fashions, as well as new accessories that are even better adapted to aquatic sports such wakeboarding, waterskiing or surfing. A new addition this year: a bistro café will be available for visitors next to the Yamaha theatre, where the fashion shows will be presented.

Thrill-seekers and trendsetters can make their dreams come true!

Equipment for water sports such as wakeboarding, wakesurfing and waterskiing have been enjoying growing popularity among those aged 28 to 38. Thrill seekers will have a chance to meet a wakeboarding champion, the famous pro rider Erik Ruck , who has won top honours in his sport. As well, Guillaume Paré, Canadian wakeboarding champion and master trainer across Eastern Canada , will tell visitors how to drive a boat for water sports.

Those who like to keep up with the latest in technology will be delighted to discover many new developments in boating, for example, a range of entirely redesigned boats. Since pleasure boating is accessible to everyone, some exhibitors will be presenting a variety of alternatives and options for boating fans with a small budget. Are you looking for a really fast sub scooter, new models of boats or gourmet treats to enjoy while out on the water? Come to the Boat Show: it's all this and more!

An invitation to relaxation, getaways and vacations!

The Boat and Water Sports Show is also a great opportunity to start making summer vacation plans. Whether you're planning to buy a boat, explore the new nautical stations or simply enjoy a romantic cruise or a getaway with friends, you'll find everything you need, with options tailored to your tastes and your budget. It's both fun AND informative!

About the Association Maritime du Québec

The Association Maritime du Québec represents both the pleasure boating industry and individual boaters. It offers services to meet the specific needs of each of these segments. The AMQ focuses on the advancement of pleasure boating and water sports, the development of a marina network infrastructure, boating tourism, environmental protection and boating safety programs. The revenues generated by the Montreal Boat and Water Sports Show are used to fund projects such as marina classification programs and eco-marinas, Quebec's nautical station program, and the national and regional Discover Boating program.

For further information: (xxx) To request information, photos, interviews and accreditation, please contact: (xxx) Ève Cardinal, Morin Relations Publiques, [phone], ext, 234, Cell.: [phone], [email protected]; Rosalie Lemelin, Morin Relations Publiques, [phone], ext. 231, Cell.: [phone], [email protected]