Bahrain's biggest boat show will begin at the Amwaj Marina tomorrow (November 23), with more than 15,000 visitors expected to attend.

Among the visitors to the four-day Bahrain Boat Show International (BBSI) will be from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and UAE. The event will also feature a variety of activities being held on the sidelines, including a cultural village and a children's corner.

"This year we have really pushed the boundaries in terms of growth, and, in the process, have become the world's fastest growing boat show," said BBSI organiser, Knotika Holdings chief executive officer, Wael Juju, at a press conference at the Dragon Hotel in Amwaj.

"Last year's event saw 10,000 visitors walk through its doors and this year numbers will be capped at 15,000 over four days," said Juju.

He said within three years, the BBSI had the privilege of gaining Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa as patron.

This is in addition to forming a partnership with the Economic Development Board (EDB) he said.

"We have also worked with Tamkeen this year as part of its enterprise development support programme as well as taking part at the World Travel Market in the UK in association with the Culture Ministry," he said.

Juju said the Information Affairs Authority had been particularly supportive with shared aims to promote Bahrain.

"BBSI 2011 encompasses more than 50,000 sqm of exhibition space, both on land and in water with more than 100 marine brands expected to display their latest products," said the official. "The super yacht enclosure will include corporate paddocks, an official Lamborghini lounge, a remote exhibit and VIP area for gold ticket holders as well as the Royal Lounge for EDB guests."

He said there will be demonstrations by Jet Pack International showcasing their flying man and Viva, the official telecom partner, will co-host rides in a Formula 1 speed boat driven by a former Formula 1 driver.

"At the cultural village, visitors will get a chance to discover life in Bahrain from the days gone by with the chance to take part in traditional handicraft activities," said Juju.

He said there would also be a designated kids' zone, where children could participate in face painting, experience water activities and climb aboard the inflatable pirate ship.

Juju said the Al Baraka Islamic Bank had joined as the official finance partner for the show and would offer financing options and on-the-spot financing approvals.

EDB chief executive Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa said the BBSI would help significantly boost the footprint of the boating industry in Bahrain, which forms part of an ongoing effort to diversify the economy and attract more tourists. – TradeArabia News Service