The World’s Greatest Boat Show Returns to South Florida for its 63rd Year on Feb. 12-17, 2004 The Miami International Boat Show will dock in South Florida Feb. 12-17, 2004, at the Miami Beach Convention Center and the Sealine Marina and Yachting Center.      The 63rd edition of the Miami International Boat Show will feature the newest powerboats, engines and marine accessories from around the world.  In addition, visitors can test drive the latest powerboats at the show’s in-water location at Sealine Marina and Yachting Center.  The Miami Beach Convention Center location will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, through Monday, Feb. 16; and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17.  The Sealine Marina and Yachting Center location will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.  “There’s something for everyone at the Miami International Boat Show when it comes to boats, electronics and marine accessories,” said Cathy Johnston, southern regional manager of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which produces the show.  “The show attracts visitors from all parts of the world who have one thing in common – a love for the boating lifestyle.” Show features will include: Big Game Room Boat show organizers are teaming up with celebrity anglers and big-game professionals to create a Big Game Room, which will serve as a gathering place for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can participate in fishing seminars and see product demonstrations led by tournament organizers; boat, tackle and accessory manufacturers; conservation groups; and representatives from fishing destinations. The Big Game Room will be located in the east mezzanine of the Miami Beach Convention Center.   Discover Boating Center The Discover Boating Center, which will be located in C Lobby of the Miami Beach Convention Center, is a resource to help prospective boaters find the boat that is right for them.  Steve Tadd, the “Boating Guy,” will be on hand during the show to answer visitors’ questions and provide unbiased, brand-neutral advice about selecting, buying and maintaining a boat. Discover Boating Photo Contest The show will hold its second annual Discover Boating Photo Contest, which will recognize one winner for his or her photograph that captures the sprit of the boating lifestyle.  The grand prize will be a boat, motor and trailer package along with a $500 show shopping spree.  Ten runner-ups will receive $50 show shopping sprees.  Sunset Celebrations Show visitors can enjoy "Sunset Celebrations" from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, through Sunday, Feb. 15, along Miami Beach's Convention Center Drive.  These happy-hour festivities will feature entertainment, drink specials as well as contests and prize giveaways. Advance tickets will be available at the Miami International Boat Show’s Web site at www.miamiboatshow.com after Jan. 1st.  Tickets will also be available Feb. 12-17 at the Miami Beach Convention Center Box Office. Electrowave and shuttle-bus service will connect the show locations with more than 3,000 parking spaces around the Miami Beach Convention Center.  ADMISSION:  Miami Beach Convention Center: $15 for adults $4 for children ages 6-12 $24 for an adult two-day pass, valid any two days Feb. 13-17 $25 for Preview Thursday – Feb. 12 Sealine Marina and Yachting Center: Free The Miami International Boat Show is produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the principal trade association of the recreational marine industry.  NMMA members, nearly 1,500 companies, produce approximately 80 percent of the marine products used by recreational boaters and anglers in the United States.  The North American pleasure boat market represents fully half of the global demand for these products and services.  Retail sales of boats and related products and services amount to an estimated $25 billion annually in the United States.