Miami Boat Rally 2024 - Miami Boat Show Edition

Bimini + Florida Keys

The Miami Boat Rally - Bimini was an extraordinary event that our family had the privilege of being a part of last season. From the moment we registered for the rally, it was evident that every detail had been meticulously planned and executed. The organization behind the event ensured that safety was paramount, providing guidance and support throughout the entire rally, from the crossing to the activities and beyond.

The activities themselves were thoughtfully curated with the whole family in mind. There was something for everyone, from thrilling water sports to relaxing beachside gatherings. The organizers truly went above and beyond to create a fun and engaging experience for participants of all ages. It was a unique opportunity for our family to bond and connect with other like-minded participants who shared our love for boating and adventure.

Beyond the excitement of the competition, the rally fostered a sense of camaraderie and learning. We had the chance to interact with fellow participants and gain valuable insights and knowledge from their experiences. The rally became not just a race, but a journey of discovery and growth, both personally and as a family

Participating in the Miami Boat Rally was not just a one-time event for us; it was a momentous occasion that created lasting memories. We cherished the quality time spent together, the joy of friendly

competition, and the immeasurable beauty of the surroundings. It was a reminder to embrace the present moment and create treasured experiences with our loved ones.

We wholeheartedly recommend that others take part in this exceptional event and immerse themselves in the full range of activities with their families. The Miami Boat Rally offers an unparalleled opportunity to create unforgettable memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. A sincere thank you is owed to the Miami Boat Rally organization for their outstanding guidance and support throughout the event. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to participate again in the future, where we can continue to enjoy the healthy, friendly, and familyoriented competitive environment they cultivate.

Warm regards,

Jose Maldonado and Family

FEBRUARY 14-18

SUSTAINABILITY & CONSERVATION

The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show has an ongoing commitment to support and protect marine wildlife. To reinforce this commitment, we have implemented a comprehensive plan for the safety of any manatees in the area during the sea trials.

To maximize the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show’s responsiveness during sea trials, the Boat Show’s parent company, Informa Markets, has retained Dr. Amy C. Hirons, Director, Charismatic Megafauna and Oceanography Laboratory (CMOL) at Nova Southeastern University, to conduct a thorough assessment.

Dr. Hirons scope of work will consist of the following:

1) Locate, organize, and train 10-20 individuals, predominantly Nova Southeastern University marine graduate and undergraduate students, to act as Manatee Spotters for the duration of the show. A training session will be required for these Manatee Spotters on Tuesday, 15 February.

Spotters will be trained to:

Ÿ Keep a sharp lookout and to identify snouts and silhouettes

Ÿ Reduce speed in areas known for manatees

Ÿ Inform sea trial participants to keep their distance from manatees

Ÿ Inform sea trial participants to slow vessels immediately and to place the boat in neutral in the event of a manatee sighting

Ÿ One Spotter is anticipated per vessel (35’ and greater). The Spotters will be required to wear polarized sunglasses and a designated t-shirt or vest identifying them as a Manatee Spotter Each vessel should have marine binoculars that the Spotters can use for greater visual acuity.

Each Spotter will collect data on manatee observations during each sea trial and in the vicinity of the marina, base of sea trials as well as Venetian and MacArthur Causeways (number sighted, distance, day, time) on a manatee log.

2) There will be three drones flying the show. Each drone will cover a different area – (i) one will be located at the sea-isle marina north of the Venetian Causeway, (ii) one will be at the Genting property located between the Venetian Causeway and the MacArthur Causeway, and (iii) one at the Museum Park slip/cruise ship turning basin located south of the MacArthur Causeway.

The drone pilots will be stationed on the end of the docks near the water taxi stands. Each done pilot will have a separate 10x10 shaded tent with AC power to charge their equipment. Drone pilots will communicate with water taxi and sea trial captains through VHF and closed UHF communication networks. Drone pilots will

record in-water conditions, and the recordings will be analyzed by CMOL and findings will be incorporated into a final report.

3) A final report assimilating all available manatee encounter data during the boat show will be provided to Informa Markets 60 days post closure of the MIBS and receipt of all data.

4) Informa Markets has also contributed a $20,000 corporate sponsorship of the Society for Marine Mammalogy’s (SMM) international conference, SMM2021, which will be held in Palm Beach, FL 1-5 August 2022. During the conference, Dr. Hirons will present the results of her final report, and a moderated panel of biologists, regulators and industry representatives will discuss the importance of coordinated environmental initiatives among the business community, the scientific community and government.

BE PREPARED BOATING SAFETY

Few activities are as enjoyable as spending time cruising in the open water with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. Few places in the world offer the variety of boating pleasures as Florida – with lakes, rivers, bays and open ocean among the many places to boat in this great state.

However, regardless of what type of boating you are enjoying, or what body of water you are boating on, practicing safe boating is the only way to go.

When you are on the water, remember it is so important to always know what's going on around your boat. Most boating accidents involve collisions with other

boats or fixed objects (docks, markers, bridge piers). Scan constantly while operating your boat and maintain 360 degree awareness on the water. Remember, staying alert is the most critical part of boating!

Although alert boaters drastically reduce their chances of being involved in a boating accident, there is always the possibility of encountering difficulties on the water. That is every boater should develop a “Life Jacket Habit.” Just carrying life jackets on board may meet the legal requirements, but wearing one at all times will help you survive should you unexpectedly end up in the water. Improvements in technology have

brought inflatable life jacket models that can be worn all the time without any discomfort. Newer inflatable belts are so slim, you don't feel like you are wearing a life jacket at all. Keep in mind, you never know when you are going to need your life jacket, so wear it all the time while you are boating.

Always have the required safety equipment on your boat; you never know when you will need it. Law enforcement officers will probably meet you sometime on the water and will want to make sure your boat has all of the required safety equipment and that the items are in good condition and ready for use when needed. These items include life jackets for every

passenger, a fire extinguisher, a whistle or horn, working navigation lights and a set of flares if you plan on venturing out onto coastal waters.

Finally, knowledge of the basics of boating will also allow you to fully appreciate your time on the water. Understanding the basics of operating a boat can greatly increase you and your family's enjoyment and safety while boating. Taking a boating safety course just makes sense!

Visit MyFWC.com and follow the “boating” links for more information on safe boating.

NO PLACE IS MORE SEAWORTHY.

With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay on the other, The Florida Keys & Key West are arguably the boating capital of the world. Boating provides an open door to The Keys, offering everyone equal access to the hidden wonders of this stunning 113-mile-long archipelago.

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER. ESPECIALLY FROM A BOAT.

With numerous boat ramps, boat rentals, guided tours and world-class charters throughout The Keys, you'll never run out of ways – or reasons – to leave the dock. You can join a sunset sail. Snorkel over a coral reef. Grab a seat on a glass bottom boat tour. Explore the full length of the 7-mile bridge. And, of course, you can go fishing for everything from behemoth bonefish to

mammoth marlin. But boating in The Keys isn't limited to captains of industry. If you prefer a more relaxed and casual pace in which to explore the countless bays, cays, coves and channels, there are dozens of kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities throughout The Florida Keys and the unspoiled Florida Everglades.

THE EARTH IS 2/3 WATER. HAVE AT IT.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor, an old fishing salt, or it's your first time at the helm, The Florida Keys offer endless opportunities to get out on the water and explore. With 1,700 islands, bustling marinas and waterside restaurants from Key Largo to Key West and all points in-between, you don't want to miss the boat.

We feel lucky to be able to share our experience with you through the pages of this wonderful magazine of the Miami Boat Rally. We thank you for extending the invitation to be part of this important publication but above all for the creation, logistics and effort that goes into carrying out bring out this great nautical event for the enjoyment of everyone in South Florida.

The Miami Boat Rally is designed to be experienced as a family in a healthy and safe way where all participants share the passion for sailing and water sports while enjoying the crystal-clear waters dreamlike sunsets and unforgettable landscapes creating memories that will forever remain in our hearts.

In 2023, when we found out that the Miami Boat Rally was organizing an outing to the islands of Bimini in the Bahamas we knew that we had to join this venture and adventure. Now we can tell you that it was an excellent decision because Román, Iván and all the organizers were attentive from the first moment providing us with clear information before during and after the journey helping us with the process which made us feel safe to take this big step of navigating international waters.

Early Friday we began our journey leaving from Biscayne Bay on a spectacular day for sailing since they took into account every detail such as wind and tide, meanwhile a helicopter flew over us capturing the departure from Miami , supported by BoatUs and at the end the organizers' boat making sure no boat was left behind; Only a few minutes passed and we began to enter the beautiful turquoise blue waters of the Bahamas...

A dream come true, the reception team was waiting for us and we collected the first points of the rally ,The island access was

smooth and well organized the marina clean and secure, and room reservations ready leaving us plenty of time to rest and enjoy the island and its gastronomy.

On Saturday we visited several points of interest around the islands such as Honeymoon Harbour, radio beach and Sapona among others exploring and completing the rally activities having fun all day long ,we ended the day with an evening full of raffles, prizes and entertainment.

On the day back home, several boats grouped together to return safely accompanied and always checking the GPS, weather and other navigation conditions for everyone's safety

That's why in August we traveled with them again on the journey to the Florida keys sharing with incredible people and creating more memories with the Miami Boat Rally family with whom we hope to continue sharing more adventures.

Photo: Jimmy Montoya, Lorena & friends!

Bimini’s

DIVE DEEPER INTO WILDLIFE ADVENTURES BIMINI

Hear the word ”Bimini”, and most divers think of the giant hammerhead sharks that have become seasonal regulars December to April. But this biganimal experience should not eclipse all that this Bahamian island offers: Year-round, Bimini has sharks, dolphins, shallow-water stingray encounters and wrecks on the menu.

Any time of year, shark diving is on offer. Several shark dives off Bimini aren’t active feeds, so divers can swim freely with Caribbean reef sharks and lemon sharks. This island supports such healthy elasmobranch populations that it’s home to one of the world’s only shark-focused research centres. Technically called the Bimini Biological Field Station, it’s known to folks on island as Shark Lab. Upon request, researchers offer one tour a day, typically around low tide.

The most-talked-about shark encounter is the great hammerhead dive. Now celebrating 10 years, this experience is unique in that the boat carries divers to a location no more than 20 yards from shore. It’s close and easily accessible—so much so that you can access the Wi-Fi of Bimini Big Game Club Resort. Most other dive destinations known for hammerheads either require long boat rides that can take as much as a day and a half, or don’t offer the nearly sure-thing availability that Bimini does. Plus, given the site’s depth of about 20 feet, it’s a photographer’s dream for ample light and long bottom times. It’s also an experience that continues to evolve.

“After a while, it started to develop on its own into something more,” says Neal Watson Jr., owner of Bimini Scuba Center. “The hammerheads were still showing up, but they were joined by bull sharks and tiger sharks. It’s a mix that’s constantly changing.” The bull sharks can also be seen from a cage that Bimini Scuba lowers into the water near the harbour, right next to Sharkies Bar and Grill, known for their barbecue. It’s an experience both in and outside the cage. “You can have a Kalik [beer] and watch as other people dive in the cage,” he says. “It’s a whole vibe.”

Swimming with wild Atlantic spotted dolphins is another popular Bimini encounter open to all snorkellers; however, those who move more easily and comfortably in the water will get more out of the experience. “All the photographers want shots, not just of the sharks but of the dolphins, too,” says Watson.

Honeymoon Harbour Beach is yet another opportunity for snorkellers and divers alike: This shallow-water site attracts a dozen or so Southern stingrays. For underwater photographers, it’s something different, and another chance to hone skills and craft perfectly composed shots.

Bimini also offers a growing collection of wreck dives. Most recently, the island saw the sinking of wrecks placed close together underwater to create a veritable ”Wreck Alley”, which can be done on one tank. In the mix: a 150-foot barge, 90-foot tugboat, 70-foot landing craft and 35-foot steel boat. They’ve also sunk two barges near one of the coral nurseries.

Post dive, Bimini is easy to explore. Says Watson, “The island is so quaint and small, and everything is within walking distance.” This includes Radio Beach and a straw market, open daily, where vendors sell locally made hats, bags, baskets and more. This site is also where you’ll find Bimini’s Fish Fry, also happening daily, where just-caught seafood, made-to-order conch salad and drinks served in coconuts are dished up.

Walk, ride a bike or drive a golf cart the length of Bimini to find the perfect swimming spot along the island’s 2-mile strip of white sand beach. Along the way, stop for a cold beer, cocktail or soda at the various open-air bars.

If you’re staying the night, opt for the Bimini Big Game Club with cabana-style rooms, the new Hilton at Resorts World with five restaurants and two poolside bars or the island’s more than two dozen Airbnbs.

There’s so much to experience on Bimini. A day trip or weekend from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or from Nassau is a good way to see a piece of what’s here, but to really do the island’s underwater scene justice takes at least a week