Family fun for all ages at the New York Boat Show

Looking for a unique activity that will spirit your kids out of their winter blues and foster a love for the outdoors? The entire family can share in the fun of visiting the Progressive Insurance New York Boat Show – especially because kids 15 and younger get in for free with ticket-holding adults ($18). From exploring the decks and living quarters of the showroom models to taking interactive fishing classes, your future boaters will find plenty of age-appropriate, engaging activities this week at the Javits Center.

Young ones will insist on having their picture taken with Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer, who visits the boat show on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. And nothing brings the imagination to life faster than climbing aboard giant yachts and cruisers, where they can fantasize about nautical adventures anywhere the ocean touches. Next, they can visit the arts and crafts table to design and build their own dreamboats.

Historic photographs, antique engines and stories about the real FDNY fireboats on display will also keep older kids engaged and educated for hours. They can also have caricatures drawn of them taking the helm of their favorite recreational watercraft.

All ages will also want to get close to Miss GEICO, the six-time World Champion speedboat that races up to 170 mph (although she’s expecting engine upgrades that should take her up to 200 mph by 2016). The 50-foot, bright yellow catamaran is a new addition and not to be missed.

In addition to inspiring a lifelong love of the water, there’s the chance to educate your children about maritime safety through various seminars and exhibitors dedicated to preserving the security and enjoyment of the beloved pastime. With plenty of photo ops and takeaways, the New York Boat Show is an exciting and memorable nautical-themed playground for the whole family.

For the full schedule of events, visit www.nyboatshow.com.