Strictly Sail Pacific Exhibit Space 'Sold Out'

by Wanda Kenton Smith on 2 Apr 2011 Exhibit space at Strictly Sail Pacific, the west coast’s only all-sail boat show slated for April 14 – 17 at Jack London Square in Oakland, CA, is 'sold out,' posting a 20% increase compared with last year’s event. 'The show is completely sold out and we’ve just created a waiting list,' said Strictly Sail Pacific Show Producer and Sail America Executive Director Jonathan Banks.

One of the key highlights of this year’s event is the return of the America’s Cup. The oldest trophy in sports will be prominently displayed at the show throughout the day on Thursday, April 14, followed by a special VIP evening presentation and reception for exhibitors and show attendees. Guest speakers at the evening presentation include Mark Buell of the America's Cup Organizing Committee, who will speak on the plans for the City of San Francisco waterfront development, and Mike Martin, Director of Rules Administration and Umpiring, who will speak on behalf of America’s Cup Race Management.

'We know this will be a major attraction for sailors and we are so pleased to have the opportunity to work with the America’s Cup organization to bring the Cup to Strictly Sail Pacific,' said Banks. 'This is a real source of pride for the sailing community and we are pleased to help celebrate the return of the America’s Cup to U.S. waters in 2013.'

New boats debuting at the show include the Beneteau FIRST 30, Catalina 355, Morris 36, Alerion 38, Jeanneau 409, Antares 44i, Lagoon 450, Sabre 456, Beneteau Oceanis 50, Prout 50, and Hunter 50. The successful 'Multihull Lagoon' will also return this year, with the best lineup of catamarans in the history of the event, including Antares, Lagoon, Prout, Seawind, Corsair and Hobie.

This year’s show focuses on hands-on experiences that will get both newcomers and longtime enthusiasts excited about all that sailing has to offer. New for 2011, the DIY Mad Mariner sponsored 'DIY Tent' offers live demonstrations by experts in engine mechanics, rigging and splicing, winch maintenance and other topics. Also new for 2011, the 'Discover Sailing Learning Center' offers FREE two-hour interactive sailing lessons on a range of topics from sailing basics to advanced boat handling and heavy-weather tactics. The popular Sail America Seminar Series Presented by Blue Water Sailing, featuring 100+ seminar events over the four-day show, offers free seminars for all attendees.

Families, young people, and the budget-conscious will get special attention, with activities that emphasize youth sailing and family boating. A 'Kids' Zone' with plenty of fun activities will keep little ones entertained, while newcomers to sailing can take a free sailboat ride at Discover Sailing.

'The show is just packed with activities and special events, as well as all the leading brands in sailing,' said Banks. 'With more boats, more exhibitors, an expanded layout, and many new features, all indications point to a great show that will delight sailors.'

Show Details

Location
On San Francisco Bay at Jack London Square in Oakland, California. Just across the Bay from downtown San Francisco, with easy access from around the Bay Area by ferry, BART or bus.

Hours
Thursday and Friday, April 14 – 15: 10 am – 6 pm
Saturday, April 16: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, April 17: 10 am – 5 pm

Admission
$12 – Thursday and Friday (Adults)
$15 – Saturday and Sunday (Adults)
$24 – Two-Day Adult Pass
$40 – Four-Day Pass (Available Online Only)
FREE – Children 15 years and under (when accompanied by a paid adult)

Information
www.strictlysailpacific.com