Sunday is final day to check out newest technologies at Columbia Boat Show

Think today’s cars are full of cool technology?

Attend the Columbia Boat Show, at the S.C. State Fairgrounds – Sunday is the final day – and you can check out three-person Sea-Do’s; sleek, super-speedy pontoon boats and features like push-button ignition, Bluetooth wireless technology and rear-looking cameras that can take awesome selfies of passengers wakeboarding or – surprise – surfing.

That’s right – today’s boats are equipped with advancements that create a wake that’s not only safe for surfing, but can be customized by the rider via a tiny hand-held (and floatable) remote control. There’s no tow-rope either – once the rider has caught the wave, he or she can drop the rope and use the wave’s energy to move.

“It’s really fun, and great for all ages,” said Gwen Gunnells of Gunnells Marine Unlimited. “We’ve seen kids as young as 6 get up. It’s also easy on the body, so you’re not sore at the end of the day.”

Gunnells Marine Unlimited is also the vendor to visit if you want to help veterans returning home from war. The company supports Wake for Warriors, a non-profit organization that uses specially modified wakeboards, water skis and other equipment to provide war veterans and their families with a free day on the water.

All in all, 17 local boat dealers will be on hand, and if you’re looking to buy a boat, now is a good time.

“Boat show season is the best time to get the exact boat you are looking for,” said Brynley Farr, who manages public relations for the show. “You can really customize your boat, and take advantage of factory and dealer incentives as well.”

Tickets are $8; for more information, visit columbiaboatshow.com.

Katie McElveen, Special to The State

This story was originally published February 10, 2016 at 5:34 PM with the headline "Sunday is final day to check out newest technologies at Columbia Boat Show."