Back for its 44th year as Georgia’s largest boating exhibition, the 2006 Atlanta Boat Show will be making some serious waves in Atlanta this winter.

From Jan. 11-15, the Atlanta Boat Show hosts a nautical extravaganza downtown at the Georgia World Congress Center, Hall C. Celebrating the boating lifestyle, the show features the latest powerboats, sailboats, engines, electronics and marine accessories from more than 300 exhibitors. Approximately 40,000 attendees visit the show each year where boat shopping is made easy through the greatest selection of marine craft and accessories at the best prices available.

Don’t miss these special features at this year’s show:

• Boats of Bond! Making a first-time appearance in 2006 are some of the legendary “Boats of Bond.” Visitors can see the watercrafts driven by Agent 007 in such classic films as “The World Is Not Enough,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Thunderball,” “For Your Eyes Only” and “Moonraker.”

• Houseboat Row - Also new in 2006 is Houseboat Row. Four, fully-furnished deluxe houseboats will be lined up outside the World Congress Center so visitors can see how truly grand living on the water can be.

• Outdoor Adventure Experience - This year, an entire section of the show will be dedicated to discovering the great outdoors. Guests can watch an Adirondack Guide Boat-building demonstration and special display and also get the chance to win a new guide boat (valued at $2,700). For those seeking a hands-on experience, there will be a rock climbing wall and fishing demonstrations, plus a drawing for a guided outdoor adventure vacation.

• Become an Ace Angler - Discover the latest in fishing techniques from some of today’s fishing masters. At the 8,000-gallon fishing center, professional anglers will showcase some of the latest and best fishing techniques through a catch-and-release showcase at the on-site center. This elaborate water display also will house a wide array of freshwater fish native to the Southeast.

• Elite Fleet Club - Purchase memberships to the Elite Fleet Club to gain access to a multitude of VIP services including show admission, two complimentary drinks, hors d’oeuvres, coat check and special gift. Club members may also take advantage of a private VIP area to relax and enjoy the show. Elite Fleet passes are available for $28 each at the show or for $20 when purchased in advance at www.AtlantaBoatShow.com.

Visitors to the Atlanta Boat Show should park in the blue and yellow lots atthe Georgia World Congress Center, located off of Northside Drive. Show attendees can also take MARTA to the Georgia Dome/Georgia World Congress Center/Philips Arena/CNN Center Station or Vine City Station.

The 2006 Atlanta Boat Show will be open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Wednesday-Friday, Jan. 11-13, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday Jan. 15

Adult tickets are $8 each; and youth, ages 13-15, are $4. For the first time in 2006, children 12 and under are admitted for free, making the Atlanta Boat Show even more affordable for families to enjoy. Tickets will also be on sale at the show. For more information on the Atlanta Boat Show, call 770-951-2500.

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