Shock Mitigation Directory

Miami International Boat Show 2011

22.02.2011

The Miami International Boat Show from 17th to 21st February 2011 featured more than 3,000 boats and 2,000 exhibitors from all over the globe. The Miami International Boat Show is Florida's largest annual event so South Beach restaurants and hotels are always full of boat enthusiasts for 5 long days.

Although predominantly a leisure show the latest designs in racing powerboats and centre consoles are the basis for future coastal patrol boats and interceptors. Race engines, specialist controls, heavy duty steering systems and high performance marine electronics are often introduced for testing by the ‘go-fast’ boat community of southern Florida before being presented for future military or professional boat contracts.

The 5 day event is a good place to compare makes and models under one roof. Due to the scale of the show and the desirable location – ask any brand manager where they would rather be in February - the technical stands often have owners, designers or subject matter experts in attendance. Professional organisations with a new build or re-fit project in the coming year have the opportunity to research boats, engines and components.

Due to the pre-season dates Miami International Boat Show is also a popular place for new product launches. We were invited by a new US engine company, Seven Marine, to the launch of their ground-breaking 550hp outboard motor, 200hp larger than the nearest stock motor. The 6.2 litre V8 outboard features an all-aluminium, supercharged power head sourced from GM Powertrain. This is the same engine used in the Cadillac CTS-V automobile. It has closed cooling, a computer-controlled disc-clutch transmission with hydraulic shifting sourced from ZF Marine, and joystick control when paired with bow thrusters.

Miami International Boat Show spans three locations - the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Miamarina at Bayside. Due to its proximity to the Bahamas, a diverse local community and hundreds of miles of waterways Miami has always been a focus point for professional operations by coast guard, customs and border agencies. The Port Of Miami leads directly out to the Atlantic Ocean. For fast boats the edge of the Gulf Stream offers a wind blown turquoise sea for some interesting sea trials and most important of all the Miami sun did not miss a beat for 5 long, hot days in February.

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