Each year, professionals from across British Columbia’s recreational boating industry pause their busy schedules to come together at the Boating BC Conference—a dynamic two-day event focused on education, networking, and sharing ideas that drive our industry forward.
The 2025 Conference will be held on Tuesday, November 18th, and Wednesday, November 19th at the River Rock Casino Resort. With this year’s theme, “Rocking the Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times,” we’re preparing for an unforgettable gathering that embraces both the excitement of change and the energy of the venue itself.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the River Rock Casino Resort, attendees can enjoy a mix of professional development and entertainment. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the roulette wheel, the challenge of blackjack, or the fun of the slots, the resort adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your conference experience.
Our thoughtfully curated program brings together a dynamic mix of keynote presentations, engaging panel discussions, and interactive conversations —all designed to spark conversation, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration. You’ll hear from a lineup of expert speakers sharing the latest research, emerging industry trends, and proven business strategies, while panel sessions offer diverse perspectives from leaders across the sector. Interactive discussions will provide a platform to ask questions, share your own experiences, and walk away with practical, actionable insights to strengthen your operations and inspire growth in every area of the marine industry.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
JOIN US FOR THE 2025 BOATING BC CONFERENCE PRESENTED BY MERCURY MARINE
Participants will gain insights from the latest research, emerging industry trends, and proven business strategies shared by our distinguished panel of speakers. Attendees will walk away with practical, actionable ideas to help strengthen and grow recreational marine businesses across every sector in the province.
This year, we’re excited to host the event at a new venue for us - the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond, BC. It’s the perfect setting to connect with familiar faces and new colleagues, blending collaboration and camaraderie through interactive workshops and lively receptions. It’s an opportunity to reconnect, share experiences, and set our sights on the future. Year after year, delegates describe it as an exceptional experience—one that leaves our industry stronger, more connected, and ready to take on the year ahead.
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?
Actionable Insights
Every presentation offers tangible takeaways and actionable insights that you can apply to your work and life the moment you walk out the door.
World-Class Speakers
Every speaker, an expert in their field, is pushing the boundaries, pioneering new insights and/or brings fresh knowledge to share. This carefully curated roster has been selected to ensure you leave with the tools, insights and knowledge you need to be effective in your role and to grow your business.
Get Connected
This is your opportunity to have some fun and connect with industry colleagues; to learn, share stories and build community. We hear it year after year; delegates find the networking opportunities at this conference invaluable. Delegate have plenty of time to connect throughout the day and at the ever-popular Navis Marine Insurance Industry Reception.
Rave Reviews
Take it from past attendees; if you work in the recreational boating industry, this is a must-attend event!
I've attended the Boating B.C. Conference six times now. I've always found the content to be next level and incredibly informative as well as the many networking opportunities. – Sam Laforge
“This conference was well planned and executed. The speakers covered such a broad range that affected all different sectors of our industry. I had such a great time and can’t wait for next year!” – Conference Attendee
BCYBA CPYB yacht brokers receive 10 re-certification points for attending both days of the Boating BC Conference.
COMING SOON!
INDUSTRY LEADERS
Vaughn Palmer
Vaughn Palmer’s hard-hitting columns have seen him cover the feats and follies of B.C.’s premiers for almost 40 years. An award-winning journalist, Palmer is the Vancouver Sun’s provincial political columnist, based in Victoria. Palmer is a regular commentator on radio station CKNW in Vancouver.
Palmer is the recipient of the Bruce Hutchison Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jack Webster foundation, a co-winner of the Jack Webster award for reporting, and a recipient of the Hyman Solomon award for excellence in public policy journalism from the Canadian Public Policy Forum. Since 1984, Palmer has examined an extensive range of issues, personalities and scandals that have come to define B.C.’s political scene.
More Speakers Coming Soon!
CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
CASINO FUN!
The entertainment, proudly sponsored by Yamaha, will be featured at the River Rock Casino Resort’s lively casino. Just steps from the Fraser River, River Rock is the perfect destination for those who love life on the water as much as they enjoy the thrill of live entertainment and gaming.
Yamaha, a trusted name in both marine innovation and performance, brings its spirit of adventure to the heart of the resort. Guests can take in unforgettable entertainment while enjoying the energy of the casino floor, world-class dining, and luxurious accommodations—all in a setting that celebrates both the excitement of the city and the beauty of BC’s waterways.
Whether you arrive by land or sea, River Rock Casino Resort offers an experience as dynamic as the tides.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS
Thinking of becoming a sponsor? Send an email to abby@boatingbc.ca for more information.
When
Location
- 8811 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 3P8, Canada