The Boat and Water Sports Show is once again at our doorstep, bringing a hint of summer breeze along with it. The show will run from February 9 to 12 at Place Bonaventure in Montreal. With over 150 exhibitors and 400 watercraft models on display as well as a slew of conferences and demonstrations, you’ll get the chance to gear up for the summer season and forget about the cold outside – for a few hours, at least.

Greener than ever
The water sports industry is changing in order to adapt to today’s realities. On average, contemporary boats are 66% more fuel-efficient than they were 15 years ago, and manufacturers are working hard to develop more comfortable and user-friendlier machines. A whole new crop of improved jet boat models awaits you water babies for 2012.

2012 Yamaha Waverunner FX (Photo: Yamaha)

Here are the main protagonists:

Kawasaki
Kawasaki is, as always, all about power, and the Jet Ski Ultra 300 X and Jet Ski Ultra 300LX are no exception. Propelled by a 300 hp supercharged engine, they’re the most potent personal watercraft ever produced.

Sea-Doo
Coming on strong with its 15 PWC models and 10 sport jet boats, BRP is introducing its new range of 2012 Sea-Doos and futuristic technologies.

There’s the iBR Intelligent Brake and Reverse system, which reduces stopping distance by two thirds compared to other models, and the iTC Intelligent Throttle Control that offers different engine operating modes.

Yamaha
The Japanese manufacturer is unveiling the new FX Cruiser SHO, FX Cruiser HO, FX SHO and FX HO.

They’re powered by a 1,812-cc 4-cylinder and feature new NanoXcel hulls. Exclusive to Yamaha, the material improves efficiency and stability while reducing weight. What’s more, Yamaha’s range of sport boats is welcoming two new 19-foot models to the fold, the AR190 and SX190.

A wealth of information
The show will also feature conferences, an overview of Quebec’s marinas, remote-controlled boats for the kiddies and a fashion show highlighting the latest industry trends.

Marine sports associations are on site to provide information about the various water sports options out there, and visitors will get the chance to discover new activities that are growing in popularity, such as diving, kayaking, sailing, waterskiing and canoeing, to name a few.