When the Los Angeles Boat Show opens on Thursday, March 17, gradual economic recovery and continued confidence will be at the forefront. The 55th annual show, which will be held March 17-20 at the South Hall of the L.A. Convention Center, is expected to be 40 percent larger than last year's show, according to the Southern California Marine Association (SCMA), the organization that produces it.

After moving the show back a month from its traditional February dates, response has been very good.

"The dealer and manufacturer support for Southern California’s industry-owned show has been incredible,” said Dave Geoffroy, SCMA executive director. “We have an outstanding mix of brands and styles of boats plus an exciting entertainment lineup of unique show features. It's definitely going to be a fun experience for our attendees and a perfect selling environment for exhibitors."

Among the performance boat companies in attendance, Nordic Boats will have a full display of boats, including new models such as the 28SS or the redesigned 43 Enforcer Flat Deck catamaran. Dave's Custom Boats also will have a large booth full of models from its new M35 and M31 catamarans with Mercury Racing 1350 engines to its F-32 cat and F-30 Sport Deck.

Other builders displaying boats include Advanatge Boats, Eliminator Boats, Hallett Boats, Howard Custom Boats, Shockwave Custom Boats and even Stancraft Boats, the Idaho-based company that builds those amazing wooden boats. Teague Custom Marine, CP Performance and Livorsi Marine will be showcasing their latest products as well. Other highlights from the show, which is sponsored by the Automobile Club of Southern California, include Laker Girls appearances, alligator wrestling and much more.

Auto Club members can show their card at the boat show box office March 17 and 18 and receive 50 percent off regular adult admission. For more info, log on to www.losangelesboatshow.com.