The Harbor Column:

You know it’s that time again when you see the temporary boat docks being floated into position in front of the Lido Marina Village docks. I am excited because the Newport Boat Show, known as the premier in-the-water big-yacht boat show in the West, is coming.

I am always amazed by Duncan McIntosh, show organizer, who coordinates the logistical challenge to juggle and squeeze in all of the show’s boats into the more than 400,000 square feet of floating docks. Also, this show is a huge boost to the marine and local economy.

The 37th annual show will have more than 300 boats to view, and the show is situated in a great outside venue on beautiful Newport Harbor.

This show is especially for the serious buyer.

Vessels can range up to 100 feet in length and feature luxurious interiors and multimillion-dollar price tags.

“The new year is shaping up to be great for the Newport Boat Show,” McIntosh said. “Based on the numerous inquiries we’ve already received, we expect to see both exhibitors and consumers come out in force at this year’s event.”

The show begins Thursday and ends April 18. I highly recommend that you use the free parking and free shuttle bus available weekdays at the Newport Harbor Lutheran Church, 798 Dover Drive, and Saturday and Sunday at the Newport Health Center on Superior Avenue.

The Newport Boat show is organized by Duncan McIntosh Co., publisher of the Sea and Go Boating magazines and the Log newspapers.

For show information, you can call (949) 757-5959 or visit www.NewportBoatShow.com.

Tip of week is for you to visit the Newport Boat Show to see the boats especially because YachtFest has been canceled this year. Hopefully returning in a year, YachtFest organizers will take the time to reposition this mega and super-yacht show that has been held annually for more than a decade.

MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating columnist. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to [email protected] or go to www.boathousetv.com .