img3915More than 20,000 people are expected to visit Navy Pier to see more than 220 exhibitors showcasing sailboats, products and services at the largest annual gathering of sailors in the Windy City-Strictly Sail Chicago-hosted by Sail America and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) January 30 to February 2, 2003.

The cold winds whipping off Lake Michigan in January aren't inviting for sailing, but sailors will have an opportunity to remedy their cabin fever at Strictly Sail Chicago. "The timing of the show allows prospective boat owners to purchase a boat and have it ready for the first spring sail. In addition, low interest rates and the tendency for boat prices to be lower in the winter months, present an excellent opportunity for sailors to get into the boat of their dreams," says Sail America executive director Scot West.

After attendees stroll the exhibit floor and hopefully find their new boat, they can take part in the series of free seminars being offered. Newcomers can learn the basics of sailing, while seasoned seafarers can come to learn new techniques. Sailing celebrities will also share stories of their experiences at sea.

After receiving the basics at the seminars-and before taking the brand new boat out on the water-boaters are invited to visit the Discover Sailing Center on the showfloor to take a spin on the sailing simulator. Discover Sailing staff will be on hand to teach the proper techniques.

Children are catered to at this year's show with the Kids Club-an activity center specially designed for junior sailors. Kids that take part in the Club will have fun building their own model boats, drawing "sailboats of the future," learning knot tying and racing boats in the makeshift "lake" on the showfloor.

The show is open 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. the first two days of the show. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday. For more information on Strictly Sail Chicago, contact Kevin Murphy at Sail America at (401) 841-0900, or visit www.sailamerica.com

Sail America is an independent affiliate of NMMA, representing the sailing industry - a powerful group of enthusiastic companies and individuals dedicated to promoting sailing. NMMA's more than 1,300 members produce approximately 80% of the marine products used by recreational boaters and anglers in the United States. The North American pleasure boat market represents fully half of the global demand for these products and services. Retail sales of boats and related products and services amount to an estimated $25 billion annually in the U.S.