Charleston will once again host a spring boat show highlighting the marine industry of South Carolina and the enthusiasm of boaters throughout the southeast. There will be boats in the water, boats on land, watercraft of all dimensions, marine education and safety exhibits, children’s activities, and entertainment, all in the beautiful setting of Daniel Island’s Waterfront Park. It is the return of a successful event that fell away when the economy tumbled and boats, even small ones, became a luxury item. New boat sales plummeted and existing boat owners either sold their beloved escape from land, or tucked it away in the garage.

The South Carolina Marine Association (SCMA) has kept a pulse on the marine industry for more than 15 years, since the not-for-profit organization was founded to serve as the eyes and ears of recreational boaters throughout the state of South Carolina. Information from the boat manufacturers and brokers in South Carolina, and throughout the Atlantic region, say the tides have changed since 2007 (the last event hosted by the organization) and they are seeing a surge of interest and sales of watercraft. This development has prompted the SCMA to re-invent an event which they owned and operated for more than eight years from 2000-2007.

“We are thrilled to bring back the boat show in 2013,” said Suzi DuRant, Executive Director of the SCMA. “It is the right time and we have a very enthusiastic collection of exhibitors and sponsors. We are pleased to work in conjunction with the Daniel Island Company to offer a brand new environment with beautiful green space along the Wando River to present exciting marine exhibits on land and in the water.”

The SC In-Water Boat Show will be held April 12-14, 2013 at Daniel Island’s Waterfront Park, where River Landing Drive meets the Wando River. The existing City of Charleston dock will be complemented by approximately 1,000 feet of portable floating docks and spud barges to accommodate a full array of motor and sailing watercraft. Ticket holders will be welcome to peruse the docks and tour the boats on display, as well as enjoy the landside attractions. There will be dozens of boats on land, boatbuilding displays, fishing simulators, presentations, boating and fishing demos, live music, local food, and a children’s area offering fun for the whole family.

Further information about the SC In-Water Boat Show will be available at www.scinwaterboatshow.com and www.scmarine.org.

About the SC Marine Association:

The SCMA’s primary goal is providing economic, environmental, legislative and educational support to the recreational boating industry and boaters of South Carolina. Through our efforts, we work to preserve lakes, rivers, seas, and shorelines for the future enjoyment of South Carolina’s water enthusiasts. And while doing so, we strive to educate legislators, as well as the general public, to our industry’s contributions to the economy and betterment of our state. SCMA is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization registered with the IRS and State of South Carolina as a 501 (c)(6). For more information, please visit www.scmarine.org.

Whether on the water or the road, boaters, campers and fishing enthusiasts enjoy increased safety and comfort with Mega-Light Utility and Mega-Light Masthead models. Davis Instruments now offers the same great products upgraded with brighter, long-lasting and efficient LED bulbs.

The Mega-Light Utility/LED is equipped with a 15′ heavy-duty cord and fused lighter plug. The cord features a UL-approved strain-relief design, ensuring long life and reliable service. An adjustable bracket makes the Mega-Light Utility easy to hang wherever it’s needed.

The stationary Mega-Light Masthead/LED is pre-mounted to a stainless steel bracket, ready for installation with a 12″ lead wire. It’s ideal for marking a boat on a mooring or at anchor. An extra pre-drilled mounting hole easily accommodates a Davis Windex 15 wind vane base to conserve masthead space. When used on an interior wall or bulkhead, the Mega-Light serves as a security light to brighten stairways or entryways.

When hung upside down, the clear, convex lens top creates a flood light for area lighting. An automatic sensor switches the lights on at dusk and off at dawn. Both models have a completely waterproof sealed lens and base and offer visibility up to 2 nautical miles.

For those who already own a Mega-Light and wish to upgrade, Davis Instruments offers a Replacement Bulb Kit. It includes both a new LED bulb and a spare incandescent bulb.

The Davis Instruments Mega-Light Utility/LED retails for $49.99, while the Mega-Light Masthead/LED costs $52.99. The Replacement Bulb Kit is $6.99.

For more information, visit www.davisnet.com.

A dependable hand pump can be one of the most critical pieces of safety equipment for any small craft. Beckson Marine’s genuine Thirsty Mate Pumps are built for long-lasting performance and have been made in the USA for more than 55 years.

Thirsty-Mate pumps may be used daily or rarely, but they’re always ready when needed. Neither neglect nor corrosion will hinder the pump’s operation.

Thirsty-Mates are easy to operate because the pumps have the same size intake and discharge, allowing unimpeded water flow. Their plastic material is water-lubricated.

Lightweight and easy to clean, the all-plastic Thirsty-Mate pumps require no priming and are not susceptible to rust or corrosion, and they will not mar the boat. If the pumps become clogged, users simply remove the foot valve assembly, by applying low heat, such as warm water, and clean out the inside.

Thirsty-Mate pumps are available in four different diameters ranging from 1-1/4″ to 3″ and multiple lengths starting at 12″. Spare parts, such as replacement foot valve assemblies and hoses, are sold separately. The suggested retail price for Thirsty-Mate Pumps starts at $23.

For more information, visit www.beckson.com.