With Cape Coral dubbed the “Waterfront Wonderland” it only seems fitting that an event dedicated to all things nautical arrive in the most heavily populated city in Southwest Florida.

The inaugural Nautical Expo at the German American Social Club takes place Nov. 20 and 21. The one-of-a-kind show, presented by Southwest Florida’s Nautical Mile Publications, Inc., has attracted more than 100 exhibitors from all over the Sunshine State (and beyond) and will feature a wide variety of fine art, nautical gadgets, coastal exhibits, and fun for the kids. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet world-famous nautical artists including Steve Whitlock and Douglas Snidely, as well as watch fly-tying demonstrations, kid’s boat building, and take advantage of a unique holiday shopping experience. Show visitors can also try their aim at the swimsuit model dunk-tank, play Knockerball, browse exotic art, nautical jewelry, and outdoor sportswear from around the state.

“The coastal enthusiasts of Cape Coral have been waiting for a multi-faceted nautical event like this for years,” said Nautical Mile Publisher Jim Griffiths. “With our recent population growth, the Expo is expected to be one of the most exciting weekend events in the city.

“I have a long history of loving Cape Coral. I cannot believe the boom that this city has had, and there’s no event like this south of Tampa.”

The expo also will benefit several local non-profits including the Cape Coral Tarpon Hunters, the Widows Sons, Fishing with Heroes, the Matlacha Hookers, Cold Blooded Wildlife Refuge, Heroes on the Water, Freedom Waters, and the Cape Coral Animal Shelter — where animal lovers can contribute to the “Puppy-Jail” as a fundraiser.

While there won’t be boats, the event will certainly showcase kayaks, paddleboards, as well as all sorts of accessories and gear needed for lovers of the water –75% of which comes from vendors outside of the immediate area.

Members of the community also are invited to come sell their used boating and fishing gear for only $10 per car in the used nautical flea market, and multiple food trucks will be on site. Fishing seminars will be held on the hour via local guides featuring captains Gregg McKee and Rob Fussnecker. Attendees can also get a photo with a 12-foot python and pet a live alligator while 10-year-old Sophie McKee educates people about the region’s wildlife.

Guests also can meet International Mermaid Faith Lynn, who will be on display in a pool of water greeting children. Additionally, kids are invited to build a model ship, see a fire truck and ambulance up close, and attendees old and young can also expect a few last-minute surprises (including a jolly man in red and white).

“It’s a boat show without boats. It’s all the other stuff you’d see there,” Griffiths said. “People didn’t come to Cape Coral to go hiking — they’re interested in the coastal environment in some way. This is the ultimate event for the coastal enthusiast. The exhibitors are coming with unique woodwork, artwork, and knickknacks –from a painted coconut to a $5,000 carving — it’ll all be there. There’s such a great variety.”

Show hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $10, re-entry is free all weekend. Active police officers are invited to attend cost-free as a guest of the show. To encourage boating and fishing in youths, kids under 18 may also attend for free. The German American Social Club is at 2101 SW Pine Island Road. For more information visit www.NauticalMileMagazine.com.

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