Powerboat races, boat displays and the latest marine products — it’s all there at the next St George’s Marine Expo.

The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and title sponsor Rubis Energy Bermuda have announced the date of the fourth annual event, May 5.

The expo showcases businesses, organisations and opportunities involved in Bermuda’s maritime industry. It also encourages activity in St George’s by targeting boating and marine enthusiasts islandwide, with a small committee consisting of representatives from BEDC, Bermuda Yacht Services, The St George’s Foundation, and the Corporation of St George’s.

“Every year the event has grown with both attendance and participation,” BEDC’s Ray Lambert said. “Our goal is to showcase both the maritime industry and the town of St George. The event is a great opportunity to highlight products and services and we really appreciate the support from all our sponsors.”

Event co-founder Mark Soares, of Bermuda Yacht Services, said the event is important and a great opportunity for marine related vendors to show off their wares and services.

“Ordnance Island is an excellent venue for the expo, and we look forward to the continued success of this event,” Mr Soares said.

Rubis’s managing director, Graham Redford, said the company was pleased to be the lead sponsor for the expo.

“After the successful launch of the Marine Expo in 2016, we are excited to be able to continue our partnership with the BEDC,” he said. “Rubis is happy to support initiatives that drive business to the town and bring tangible economic benefits to the local businesses. It is also a great way to bring the community closer together and celebrate our strong maritime heritage.”

Robert Cardwell, Bermuda Power Boat Association commodore, said they were looking forward to working in partnership with the organisers. The BPBA will use the event to launch their race season for the planned series.

“On the day, we will have race boats on display and will then commence the first race in St George’s Harbour,” he said. “We will have a minimum of two races, but could have as many as four, dependent on the number of race teams who sign up. Viewing the race from Ordnance Island will be spectacular, as all races bring elements of excitement.”

Jennifer Pitcher, of Endeavour Community Sailing, said they love participating in the expo, because it is the perfect opportunity to connect with friends and supporters from Bermuda’s diverse maritime sectors.

“It’s a fun, family-friendly event that brings together our island community through Bermuda’s maritime heritage,” she said. “We can’t think of a better place than St George’s to host the event given its historical significance. The Endeavour team is excited to participate for our fourth consecutive event this year. We look forward to providing sailing taster sessions on the water with our Endeavour graduates and Endeavour maritime careers springboard programme alumni.”

Last year’s event had almost 70 businesses and organisations participate and thousands of attendees. With the date now set, organisers are encouraging interested sponsors and participants to contact them by calling Danice Mapp at 292-5570 or dmapp@bedc.bm for further information.