The 25th annual Irish Marine Federation Boat Show begins in The RDS Simminscourt Arena on 18th February. The main sponsor of the event is The Allianz Insurance Group.

The largest show of its type in Ireland, it is held just after the London Boat show, with many exhibitors and visitors attending both events. The selection of products and features that will be on offer at the show reflects the huge choice of marine activities that are available in Ireland. Quite literally, there is something for everyone at this year’s event, from the latest chandelry to extreme water sports to inland cruisers to marine based holidays at home and abroad.

Captain Sean Lyons, pictured, who runs The Rib Centre in Cork has attended the show for the last decade. He says the show has weathered all sorts of storms and continues to go from strength to strength. “Some people just love boats,” he said.

Whether new to watersports, or if you are already an active participant, then the 2009 event is the perfect place to find out what’s new and how to acquire the latest equipment. If you are coming back to watersports, this is the place to reconnect with one of Ireland’s fastest-growing leasure sectors.

Tickets are €12 per adult, €25 for a family and €6 OAP/ students.

Opening hours: Wednesday 18th February 11am to 7 pm, Thursday 19th February 11am to 8 pm, Friday 20th February 11 am to 8 pm, Saturday 21st February 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday 22nd February 10 am to 6 pm.