Anchors, away! Georgia's longest-running (and biggest-ever) boating event is returning to the Georgia World Conference Center in January. The 2024 Discover Boating® Atlanta Boat Show®, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, takes place January 11-14.
As your one-stop shop for boats, accessories, and on-the-water adventures, the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show will feature hundreds of boats and marine products.
Additionally, there will be various boating activities and educational opportunities for all ages and boating experience levels, whether you're a seasoned captain or newcomer.
Here are the top reasons you don't want to miss the boat to this year's show!
What to Expect at the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show
1. Browse and Buy a Boat
Boat shows are the best place for new boaters to purchase a boat!
A wide variety of boat brands and models are under one roof, so attending a show makes comparing your options easy.
In addition, boat shows provide ample opportunities to network with fellow boaters and boat companies. The connections you form at boat shows can help you with financing, insurance, and other boating needs.
Want to browse boats before you get to the show? Check out our boat finder, which lists all the boats at this year’s show. You can browse your options and determine which brands or models you want to view.
2. Enjoy $5 Boats and Brews After 5 pm on Thursday
In celebration of opening day, there will be $5 admission on Thursday, January 11, after 5 pm. The $5 after 5 pm ticket promotion is available online and onsite on Thursday only.
And if you're thirsty? Join us for Happy Hour to kick off the weekend with your crew. Stop by after 5 pm and enjoy $5 admission and drink specials.
3. Relax in the Lake Life Lounge
Swing by the Lake Life Lounge to immerse yourself in the ultimate boating vibes! Relax in the Lake Life Lounge with your crew, enjoy live music, and grab a bite to eat and drink. Keep reading to learn more about exciting programming at the Lake Life Lounge!
- Opening Night VIP Party: Join us at the Opening Night VIP Party on Thursday, January 11th, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM, hosted by Erica Thomas from Eating with Erica. Attendees will enjoy a Boat Appetit Tasting Station, featuring specialties from James Beard nominated Chef Joey Ward's renowned Georgia Boy & Southern Belle restaurants. Secure your tickets, which provide access to the show, two drinks, the chef's tasting, and more. Your participation goes beyond a fantastic evening—it supports No Kid Hungry!
- Ode to ATL Showcase: Join Atlanta artist Adrian Franks, also known as AD, for the "LIVE FREE" Ode to ATL Showcase on January 12th from 5-7pm. Witness the transformation of the lounge into an art gallery featuring AD's captivating canvas paintings. Explore nautical flag abstract art portraying the city's esteemed sports, political, and entertainment icons.
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Mix Off Competition: Get ready for a taste of summer at the Boat Apetit Chef Demo and Mix-Off happening at the Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge! Join us on January 13th at 1, 3, and 5 pm, and on January 14th at 2 pm for an exhilarating boating-inspired Mix-Off Competition. Witness three local mixologists crafting cocktail and mocktail recipes, competing for a spot in Sunday's showcase. These sessions, judged on taste, presentation, and harmony with the chef's dish, promise an exciting experience.
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Boat Appetit Chef Demo: Atlanta chef will host live demos both days, complemented by the creativity of the local mixologists. With celebrity judges and hosted by J Carter, founder of ONE Musicfest, this event is sure to be a highlight of the weekend! Plus, enjoy the beats with live DJ sets from DJ Thrice Groove.
4. Visit the Let's Go Fishing Center for Live Fishing Demos & Seminars
Looking to hone your fishing skills? If so, you've got to stop by the Bass Tub during the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show. Watch pro anglers demonstrate fishing and casting skills at this 5,000-gallon aquarium. Get ready for a first-hand look at how fish react to various baits, lures, and techniques.
5. Explore Fred's Shed How-To Center (Presented by Progressive® Insurance)
Have an engine problem that you can't seem to fix? Or maybe your gear shift is acting up? Stop by Fred's Shed How-To Center, and the tech experts will happily provide you with a free personalized consultation. From first-time boaters to experienced captains, there will be plenty of tips, tricks, and DIY advice to go around.
6. Learn to Sail – From the Experts!
Are you looking to level up your sailing skills? Because the show will feature sailing seminars for sailors of all skill levels! Whether you're learning the ropes or have years of sailing experience, the experts are here to help everyone along their sailing journey.
7. Hang Out in the Kids' Zone
The Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is kid-friendly! Once they've gotten their boating fix, bring your little ones by the Kids' Zone for some old-fashioned, kid-inspired fun. We promise there will be something for every age group.
8. Try the New Surfing Simulator
Introducing the latest thrill —the Surfing Simulator! Get ready to hang ten like a pro in this exhilarating virtual reality experience. Can you conquer the surf like it's second nature? Dive into the action and put your surfing skills to the test without a drop of water. Join us for the fun of "catching a wave" and experiencing the excitement of surfing, all within the Surfing Simulator.
9. Bring Your Crew to Family Day
Exciting news for families! Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 14th, as it's Family Day at the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show.
Our Family Day pass, designed for 2 adults and 2 children, are exclusively available for purchase online. So, grab yours and get ready to create lasting memories with the whole family at the show!
Ticket Information
Ready to get your 2024 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show tickets? If so, you can purchase them online. You can also buy them at the door with a credit card.
General admission is $15 per adult (anyone 13 years or older) when purchased online and $17 at the event site. All children are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. As mentioned, you can buy discount tickets for $5 after 5 pm on Thursday (1/11).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show:
Where Should I Park?
Please reserve a parking pass advance by visiting this page.
Is the Show Handicapped-Accessible?
Yes! The Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is handicapped-accessible. All entrances have ramps, and there are plenty of disability-friendly restrooms throughout the building.
Can I Board the Boats?
Browsing and purchasing boats is a significant aspect of boat shows. Most display boats will be available for the public to board. Of course, according to the dealer's discretion, some boats might require an appointment.
Can I Come Back on the Same Day?
If you have to leave the show (say you forgot something in the car), you can return later that day as long as you grab a wristband. However, each ticket is valid only for the day it is purchased.
For more information about the Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
