The inaugural Balboa Invitational Boat Show brought together 13 Newport Beach yacht brokers, more than two dozen boats and hundreds of guests for a showcase that celebrated the city’s maritime heritage and vibrant boating culture. The show also included exotic cars courtesy of European Collectibles, iLusso Exotic Car Dealership and Lamborghini Newport Beach.
“The boating community is very welcoming, and this event gives people a chance to experience that,” says Greg Sinks, general manager of CRC Marinas Newport Beach, owner of Balboa Marina. “We’re recognized as the market leader for the quality of our facilities, the service our staff provides and the overall marina experience. This is the home port for every boat — we’re here when you leave on your journey, and we’re here to welcome you back.”
For yacht brokers, the show was a chance to highlight their vessels in the perfect locale.
“Newport Beach is our home territory,” said Jeremiah Parkinson, executive vice president of Sun Country Marine Group. “CRC is a strong partner for us, and we do a lot of business in their premium marinas. It’s where our customers want to be on these beautiful yachts — a central location close to Catalina, plenty of slips and a lively waterfront with restaurants right on the water.”
Allen Jones, sales associate for Jeff Brown Yachts, echoed that point. “You look at stories like John Wayne and the influence he had on the community, especially the boating community. That legacy has been a pillar here, with people like him helping pioneer the way for us.”
Among the visitors were Jerry and Sandra Baccari, joined by Jerry’s brother Anthony and his wife, Alexandra. The Baccari brothers have been boating since they were teenagers, and this year they came to the show with a purpose.
