The Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Show

For a number of years this was the official website for the annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Show. Throughout the event people, from across southern California, interested in purchasing a boat or simply perusing, had the opportunity to check out more than 100 new and used sailing and motored vessels being shown by area brokers.
Content is from the site's 2013 archived pages.

Our 12th Annual In-Water Boat Show | May 31 - June 3, 2012

Thursday ... May 31, Noon to 7pm
Friday ... June 1, Noon to 7pm
Saturday ... June 2, 10am to 7pm
Sunday ... June 3, 10am to 5pm

Experience Dana Point Harbor Like Never Before!

Join in the excitement of our upcoming 14th Annual In-Water Boat Show!

Our In-Water Event features:

Power & Sail
New & Used
2014 & 2015 Models
Marine Accessories
Electronics
Fishing Gear
Apparel
Personal Watercraft
Marine Services

The 12th Annual In-Water Dana Point Harbor Boat Show returns, from May 31 to June 3. The event will showcase over 150 in-water and on-land exhibitors. Boating enthusiasts can purchase vessels and other products and are invited to climb aboard luxury yachts, sailboats, electric boats and powerboats.

Dana Point Harbor is home to thousands of watercraft and enthusiasts who enjoy all types of water sports activities throughout the year. The harbor serves as a gorgeous natural venue for our event. Dana Point is right off the I-5 freeway, and centrally located between Los Angeles and San Diego. The show is an easy drive for millions of Southern Californians, with plenty of Free Parking supplemented by Boat Show Shuttle Service. The Shuttle stops at the Doheny Beach parking, and Dana West Marina parking areas every 10 minutes, and drop you off at the show. Return service to parking lots also available.

Dana Point Harbor is one of the most spectacular marinas along the California coast, from San Francisco to the Mexican border. Always full with the highest-quality of boats, Dana Point Harbor is home to thousands of watercraft and enthusiasts who enjoy all types of water sports activities throughout the year.

New and Used Boats and Products will be on display both in and out of the water at the Boat Show. A great selection of power and sail vessels will be featured, including Albemarle, Baja, Cenczi, East Bay, Egg Harbor, Formula, Grand Banks, Island Packet, Mediterranean, Mikelson, Mustang, Nordhavn, Ocean,Pacific Sea Craft, Pursuit, Riviera, Tiara, Viking, with more being added each week.

Tickets

General Admission

Regular Admission tickets are $12 each. Children under 12 with accompanying adult is free.

Discount Coupon

A $3 Off Regular Admission Coupon for use at the gate on Saturday or Sunday. (Remember the online ticket is still cheaper!)

Location

OC Sailing & Events Center & Public Docks, Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point Harbor

Parking

There is plenty of free parking located at most Harbor parking lots.

Shuttle Service

Constant shuttle service will be available from 1/2 hour before the event to 1/2 hour after event closes. The shuttle will stop at each parking area every 10 minutes.

For a more detailed map, see Parking and Shuttle map on Driving Directions page.

Sponsors Info

Sponsorship opportunities are available for the upcoming 12th Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Show. Sponsoring will give your company a great opportunity to be part of an upscale boating event. Expose your products or services to thousands of consumers and build awareness prior to and during this well established show. One of our long time sponsors and boat enthusiasts at CleanItSupply (the well known online wholesaler of janitorial supplies) have associated with the show for the past 7 years. The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show has been a successful event for the past 11 years.

The show will continue its already substantial advertising program, including color ads in major local newspapers, magazines, and boating publications. There also will be full color posters distributed throughout Southern California retail shops, discount coupons, and thousands of flyers distributed to bolster attendance. Multiple options for sponsors to take advantage of a multipronged advertising campaign are available.

In addition to our traditional web site, which receives more than 80,000 page views in the three months prior to the event, we are expanding our online marketing efforts by leveraging the power of social media. Online media, such as email newsletters, Twitter, Facebook, You Tube, Blogging and others will be used to promote our Sponsors, Exhibitors, and the Show. These efforts will begin 6 months prior to the actual event, thus the earlier sponsors get onboard, the more exposure they will receive.

10,000 Attendees!

Our Boat Show attracts thousands of Southern Californians annually. The demographic consists of affluent families with a median income of more than $150,000, well educated home owners, many of whom are ready to purchase products.

Attractive Venue with Food and Drinks

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show not only attracts many attendees because of its location, but our outdoor dining area experience and live musical entertainment keeps them refreshed, happy, and extends their time at the event.

Collaborative and Flexible Partnerships

We are open to innovative sponsoring partnerships with you. Our show management will be pleased to work with you and your company to customize a program that will maximize your exposure.

Volunteer

You can play an important role at Dana Point’s largest in-water marine event!

Volunteers are needed to help with various show duties, such as registration, parking or shuttle management, dock coordination and much, more. In return you’ll receive FREE admission for you and a significant other, a FREE lunch, FREE event T-Shirt, and FREE parking… all while you are helping with an exciting community event. And in a very special way, you’ll also get to experience the Boat Show & Green Expo from behind the scenes.

If you are interested in helping with this year’s show, call Laurie at 949.496.2979, or fill out the form below. You’ll be glad you did…

More Background on DanaBoatShow.com

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show has grown into one of Southern California's most significant annual boating events, drawing boat enthusiasts, potential buyers, and marine industry professionals. The event showcases various vessels, from luxurious yachts to small watercraft, alongside marine accessories and equipment. Dana Point Harbor’s beautiful setting on the Pacific coastline, known for its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque views, adds to the appeal of this show.

Overview of the Event

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show typically features an impressive range of new and used boats, both in-water and on-land exhibits. Attendees have the opportunity to explore different types of watercraft, including powerboats, sailboats, and electric vessels. In addition to the boats, the show is a marketplace for marine-related gear, such as electronics, apparel, fishing equipment, and personal watercraft. Exhibitors from various sectors of the boating industry attend to showcase the latest technologies and services related to boating and maritime leisure activities.

The show is well-known for attracting a diverse crowd, including families, recreational boaters, and serious buyers who are looking to invest in new vessels. The event is also an excellent venue for those interested in learning more about the boating lifestyle, as it often includes seminars and workshops on topics ranging from boat maintenance to maritime safety.

Audience and Demographics

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show primarily caters to a well-off demographic, with many attendees either owning boats or looking to purchase one. The harbor’s proximity to affluent areas in Orange County, combined with the high-end nature of the boats on display, makes the show particularly attractive to wealthy boating enthusiasts. Dana Point itself is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, contributing to the event's consistent success in drawing a large crowd every year.

Beyond the boat buyers, the show attracts casual visitors interested in the experience of touring boats, learning about the latest in marine gear, or simply enjoying the harbor’s scenic views. Dana Point is a well-known spot for outdoor activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and whale watching, adding an additional layer of attraction for visitors who may not have a strong interest in boating but appreciate the harbor's vibrant environment.

Press and Media Coverage

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show has received consistent media attention over the years. Regional publications often highlight the event as a premier showcase for the local boating industry, and it has been featured in articles covering Southern California's maritime culture. Press coverage typically focuses on the show’s economic impact, the new models of boats exhibited, and the general enthusiasm of attendees.

Many media outlets emphasize the show’s unique combination of luxury and accessibility. While some of the yachts on display may carry price tags in the millions, the show also includes smaller, more affordable vessels, appealing to a broader spectrum of boaters. The event has also been featured in boating magazines, lifestyle publications, and local news outlets, further cementing its reputation as a must-visit event for maritime enthusiasts.

Cultural and Social Significance

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show plays a vital role in Southern California's boating community, bringing together both casual boaters and serious maritime industry professionals. The event not only highlights the latest trends and technologies in boating but also fosters a sense of community among boat owners and enthusiasts. Given that Dana Point is known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World,” the show also ties into the area's broader maritime culture, which celebrates oceanic conservation and the coastal lifestyle.

Additionally, the event contributes to the local economy, drawing visitors from all over Southern California and beyond. Many local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and shops in Dana Point, benefit from the influx of visitors during the show. The harbor itself is a year-round destination, but the boat show adds a seasonal highlight that further solidifies Dana Point’s status as a premier boating hub.

Event Features and Attractions

One of the standout features of the Dana Point Harbor Boat Show is the opportunity for attendees to tour a wide variety of boats, from compact watercraft to multi-million-dollar luxury yachts. The in-water exhibits provide a hands-on experience, allowing potential buyers and curious visitors alike to step aboard different vessels and speak directly with dealers.

In addition to the boats, the show offers a range of other attractions. Marine equipment vendors set up shop alongside boat dealers, offering the latest in boating technology and accessories. Attendees can browse everything from advanced navigation systems to custom boat fittings. Many visitors also enjoy the opportunity to purchase specialized boating gear that may not be easily available in regular stores.

The show often features live music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities, creating a festive atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy a meal at one of the harbor’s many waterfront restaurants or grab a quick bite from food vendors stationed throughout the event. The combination of boats, entertainment, and picturesque views of the harbor ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The economic impact of the Dana Point Harbor Boat Show is substantial. Local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, many of whom stay in the area for the duration of the event. The show also boosts the local boating industry by facilitating boat sales, promoting marine services, and raising awareness about boating-related products.

On the environmental side, Dana Point Harbor has long been a champion of ocean conservation, and this ethos is reflected in the boat show. Exhibitors often showcase eco-friendly boating solutions, such as electric boats and environmentally responsible marine equipment. The harbor is also home to several conservation organizations that promote sustainable boating practices, ensuring that the event aligns with the community's commitment to protecting marine ecosystems.

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Show stands out as one of the most significant marine events in Southern California. Its picturesque location, combined with a diverse range of boats and maritime products, makes it a must-attend for boating enthusiasts. The event's ability to draw both affluent buyers and casual visitors underscores its widespread appeal. From the latest in boat technology to its focus on marine conservation, the Dana Point Harbor Boat Show is much more than just an exhibition—it's a celebration of the boating lifestyle and a cornerstone of the local community.

DanaBoatShow.com