The local boating industry seems to be negotiating the heavy financial weather well these days.sailing despite the struggling economy of recent years. Unlike the Americans, Canadians still show huge interest and passion for the sport, with 2009 sales close to the 2007 level , one of the most lucrative years of the decade.

As in past years, manufacturers continue to make their products safer, more user-friendly and more efficient, to appeal to a larger number of enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. On the jet-propelled boats and watercraft side, there is a significant increase in premium models powered by 4-stroke engines. These machines are thriftier, quieter, smoother and, above all, more reliable.

Here are the hot new items you should take a look at while visiting the 11th annual Montreal Boat and Water Sports Show.

Sea-Doo
The iControl system introduced a year ago is the most advanced watercraft technology on the market. For 2010, you’ll find it in a growing number of models, such as the RXT and GTX lineups plus the Wake Pro 215. iControl features a slew of firsts: Intelligent Brake and Reverse (on-water braking system), Intelligent Suspension (full on-water suspension system), Intelligent Throttle Control with neutral, slow-speed mode and cruise control, and the stepped S3 Hull.


Sea-Doo’s sport boat division offers the new 210 Challenger SE, a jet-propelled boat with lots of room, exceptional visibility, revised cockpit ergonomics and award-winning styling.

Yamaha
The VX Sport, VX Deluxe and VX Cruiser are completely new for 2010. More comfortable and more stable, they also sport an attractive new look inspired from the larger FZS. Additionally, Yamaha has come ‘round to improving its entry-level watercraft, a move that makes perfect sense in these difficult times.

As for jet-equipped boats, the new 242 Limited and Limited S will impress as headliner models in their product range, without forgetting the SX240 and AR240, two sporty alternatives offering generous equipment.

Honda
The F-15X, Honda’s only personal watercraft sold in Canada, always pleases with faultless assembly and component quality. Power is present in spades, courtesy of the 200hp turbocharged engine with reduced turbo lag on this year’s model. A new navigation system called GPScape is also available, both for safety and to please electronic toy fanatics.

Honda Aquatrax F-15X

Kawasaki
The Green Monsters are not here, but never far from the mind of amateurs of their legendary performance and character. These watercraft are the fastest and most powerful in the business, with up to 260 horsepower produced by a 1.5L turbo engine. This year, we get more aggressive color schemes and graphics along with all-black hulls!

Good news for extreme thrill seekers: the Jet Ski 800 SX-R comes back for 2010.

You can also find out about rivers and lakes, boating regulations and licenses as well as associations, their programs and activities. The Montreal Boat and Water Sports Show has it all for you!

Location
Place Bonaventure – 800, De La Gauchetière West, in Montreal. 

Show Hours
Thursday and Friday: noon to 9pm
Saturday: 10am to 8pm
Sunday: 10am to 6pm
Monday: noon to 5pm




Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux-Moto123.com