The 50th Annual Melbourne Boat Show promises a booming year for recreational boating in Victoria.

Victoria’s giant indoor boat show looks likely to set exhibitor and visitor records, with several exhibitors taking extra space.

The biggest names in boating, fishing and water sports are showing their latest products in a layout similar to 2009, with Accessory Alley and the open exhibitor precincts which made it so easy for patrons to navigate the Show and not miss a stand.

A subtle but important change is an expanded focus from the promotion mainly of boating and fishing to a showcase for all the many ways for people to enjoy themselves on the water.

BIA Victoria general manager Clyde Batty said strong exhibitor interest was a good sign for a Show that would really hit the mark with patrons.

“There’s a real buzz of anticipation, with exhibitors gearing up to ensure they have the best possible offering for the market as it recovers, which will mean plenty to tempt show patrons,” he said.

“With the combination of our 50th Anniversary celebrations and so many great exhibits, this Show will be hard to ignore – and we anticipate attendance numbers to reflect this strength.”

It will run from Thursday 1 July to Monday 5 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, opening at 10am daily, with plenty of special attractions to celebrate its half century.