The Hartford Boat Show opened the hatches this afternoon at the Connecticut Convention Center, showcasing an industry that depends on fair winds from the economy.
With about 140 exhibitors there's more to see than ever before. A salesman for A & S Boats in South Windsor, a company that has a powerboat posed pointing sky high, says business has been getting better the last three years.
"This year, with the fuel prices down it'll definitely have an impact," said Mark Passeri.
For darker days, there's safety gear on display as well. The Autotether Marine Landfall is touting can be a lifesaver.
Capt. Mark Bologna of Landfall explained, "It uses a radio signal just like a garage remote control. If you were to fall out of the boat, it will cut and kill the engine and shut the motor down so you can get back on the boat."
There are sailboats upstairs, sailing craft of all sizes. And captains and their mates can pull up a chair at the dock bar.
The center fin goes in on a stand up paddleboard. Kevin Gallagher teaches people how to do it out of Black Hall Outfitters in Old Lyme. A demo pool, new this year at the Boat Show, lets instructors such as Kevin show just what's "sup".
"You can do it!" he said. "I get people that do not believe that they can do it, I get them standing up within ten minutes in my lessons."
The Hartford Boat Show is open tonight til 9, then Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Showing the NBC CT app at the door gets $2 off admission.
