More than 20,000 visitors are expected to flock to the second Bahrain Boat Show International (BBSI) being held in April. The figure is more than twice the number of visitors at the event last year, said the organisers Knotika Holdings.

This year's event to be held at Amwaj Islands' Marina from April 20 to 24, will feature new attractions, initiatives, thrills, education and excitement for visitors of all ages, said Knotika Holdings CEO Wael Juju, while speaking at a Press conference on Monday.

'The first show last year was a big learning curve for us. We have improved, expanded and made it more attractive for all those attending,' he stated.

Juju said the boat show would look at promoting marine leisure tourism in Bahr ain and the GCC with an aim to support 'Bahrain's 2030 Economic Vision.'

'The theme this year is Bahrain: The Islands,' Juju said. 'Uniquely, Bahrain, with its 33 islands, has the largest proportion of waterfront properties and spaces of any Middle East and North Africa country,' he added.

The scale of the opportunities for the marine leisure industry in Bahrain is staggering, he said. 'We aim to assist the regional market in exploring and realising this wonderful potential on its doorstep,' he said.

Juju said there were several major marina development and construction projects in Bahrain worth billions of dollars to support the kingdom's vision as a regional hub for marine leisure.

'It also lies within a day of easy cruising from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait - four other healthy and growing marine markets,' he said.

Juju said BBSI 2010 was a gateway for the whole family to discover the joys of boating and water sports.

'We shall showcase activities from kayaking, fishing, jet-skis, diving, sailing, chartering and water-skiing to promote marine leisure to the Bahraini and travelling Saudi audience,' he said.

The new plans for this year include a VIP super yacht enclosure, unique vehicles such as hovercraft, amphibious sports cars and personal submarines.

'There will also be jet ski and water sport stunt displays and a marine culture and heritage village,' he disclosed.

Amwaj marina manager Ali Alfardan said the event provided a platform to promote both Amwaj and Bahrain.

Gold sponsor Oasis-Amwaj Islands' chief executive officer Martin Kay said last year's show was a success and they were positive that with the experience and expertise that Knotika Holding has, this year's will be yet another very successful event.

The show is open on all five days from 5pm to 11pm. Tickets are available in advance and on the door.

Advance bookings can be made at Virgin Megastore, in City Centre, and all McDonalds outlets across Bahrain.

Tickets are priced at BD4. Entry is free for children aged 12 years and younger, but they should be accompanied at all times. Access to the super yacht enclosure is only for BD15 VIP ticket holders.-TradeArabia News Service