More than 125 presentations will occur as part of the 57th annual Vancouver International Boat Show program, from treasure hunters to industry experts, and from world travellers to those seeking to protect marine life. Here’s a look at some must-see prese
Highlights at this year’s boat show
HUNTING SUNKEN TREASURE
The cast members of the Discovery Channel Docu-series Cooper’s Treasure will deliver an inspiring presentation on the quest to find sunken treasure’s and great shipwrecks, and stories of Discovery Channel’s docu-series, Coopers Treasure. From scouring the ocean floor for the wreck of the Nuestra Senora de Atocha, 1622 and it’s $500 million dollar find; the wreck of the “unsinkable” Titanic and treasures recovered during the Titanic 2000 expedition; the Central America and the tons of gold recovered; and of course, Cooper’s Treasure.
THE WHALE REPORT ALERT: SAVING WHALES, ONE SMARTPHONE AT A TIME
Vessel-associated impacts, such as ship strikes, disturbance, and vessel noise can have negative effects on cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises). In partnership with the Port of Vancouver and Prince Rupert, the B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network has developed the WhaleReport Alert System, a smartphone app which broadcasts details of whale presence so vessels can undertake steps to reduce disturbance and decrease the chance of collision. Presented by Alannah Biega of the Marine Mammal Research team and coordinator of the Wild Killer Whale Adoption Program.
SPORT FISHING: SALTWATER FISHING AND B.C. OUTDOORS SPORT ON FISHING TV
Mike Mitchell is the name and the face behind B.C. Outdoors Sport Fishing, which airs on nine networks across Canada and the U.S. Mike’s true love is downrigging for salmon on the coast. After four seasons next to expert flyfisher, Brian Chan, Mike has honed this skill and enjoys early spring and late fall fisheries in the Interior. Mike is also Executive Producer of Sportfishing Adventures.
SAILING AWAY: MAKING YOUR CRUISING DREAMS A REALITY
Are you looking to take the plunge? Dreaming about sailing away to exotic and exciting destinations? Cruiser, racer or single-hander, your sailing dream can become a reality! In 1995 Ken and Carol Gillstrom made a plan to construct a boat and sail worldwide. They are now living that dream! Share and learn from their experiences. Find out
how they balanced family and job while maintaining their launch date. Ken will outline steps to help you clarify your “dream” and offer strategies that will keep you motivated. His tips will assist you in overcoming the challenges encountered while making your dream a reality.
REDUCING ANXIETY IN BOATING
Most boaters experience some anxiety when heading out on the water. This type of anxiety can be “healthy” as it makes us more cautious and alert. However, some people develop “unhealthy anxiety” discouraging and even preventing them from the boating experience. This seminar, also presented by Ken and Carol Gillstrom, will look at the causes of anxiety in boating, and provide tools to help you manage the risks. By managing the risks associated with boating, your anxiety will be reduced to a level where your boating experience will be safe and pleasurable.
LEAP FROM LANDLUBBER TO LIFE AT SEA
Making the “Leap From Landlubber to a Life at Sea” Join Gina de Vere as she takes a very honest and open look at the fears, frustrations and feminine concerns in preparing and making passage. You will gain insights gleaned from the advice of 40 blue water sailing women Gina has interviewed, women from novices to highly professional, and feel more confident to turn your own dreams into a wonderful, practical reality. Gina has been sailing around the world on a full-time basis on her Gib Sea 47-foot yacht Stardancer for the past 15 years. For a complete presentations schedule visit vancouverboatshow. ca/education/seminar-speakers