Revel Republic Expands In-Water Boat Show Series with New Chicago Event
November 25, 2024
Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina, August 21 – 24, 2025
Los Angeles/Orange County/San Diego, CA — Revel Republic, in collaboration with TRAFFIK Advertising, is excited to announce the expansion of its highly successful In-Water Boat Show Series, with the addition of the prestigious Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina. This new event, following the success of the Newport Beach and San Diego boat shows, is a significant milestone in the series’ growth, promising to redefine the boat show experience for modern audiences.
The Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina will take place from August 21st to August 24th, 2025, at Navy Pier, an iconic waterfront destination in the heart of Chicago. This show will continue the momentum built by the Newport Beach International Boat Show at Lido Marina Village (May 1 – 4, 2025) and the San Diego International Boat Show at Safe Harbor Marinas Sun Road (June 19 – 22, 2025). Revel Republic’s innovative approach to boat shows has captivated audiences by blending luxury lifestyle elements with the thrill of boating, creating an experience that appeals to a wider range of lifestyle connoisseurs.
“We’ve seen incredible success in the cross-pollination of industries, where bringing together engaged audiences creates the kind of energy and excitement that our partners and sponsors are seeking from live events,” said Hany Ghabour, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Revel Republic. “By blending the worlds of boating, luxury, and high-end living, we’re not just creating a boat show — we’re creating an immersive lifestyle experience that attracts the right audience, with the intention and focus our sponsors desire.”
Anthony Trimino, CEO of both Revel Republic and TRAFFIK Advertising, emphasized the modernization of boat show experiences: “Our goal is to introduce new boaters to a world they haven’t experienced while reintroducing seasoned boaters to an innovative way of enjoying boat shows. By leveraging new-age marketing strategies and a fresh approach to event production, we are creating larger reach and engagement, making the boating lifestyle accessible and exciting for everyone.”
Revel Republic’s In-Water Boat Show Series is distinct for its approach to modernizing the traditional boat show format. Beyond showcasing luxury yachts and boats, the event integrates elements from industries such as exotic cars, private aviation, fine jewelry, gourmet cuisine, and VIP entertainment. By offering a multifaceted experience, Revel Republic is broadening the appeal of boat shows, reaching diverse audiences with a shared appreciation for luxury and sophistication.
Randy Podolsky, developer of Navy Pier Marina and avid boater shared, “We could not be more excited to collaborate with Revel Republic as the CHIBS producer based upon their track-record for planning and executing successful boat shows in other highly regarded locations. Navy Pier Marina offers more than a boat show with direct access to Navy Pier’s countless restaurants, attractions and amenities. This will be an event for the entire family.”
The Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina is expected to feature an exclusive lineup of luxury boats, yachts, and watercraft, alongside curated showcases from luxury automotive brands, private aviation, and world-class culinary experiences. Attendees can expect a highly curated, VIP-style atmosphere designed to foster meaningful connections, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
Bernard Kida, In-Water Boat Show Series Executive Producer and Co-Founder of Revel Republic, shared, “We’re thrilled to bring the In-Water Boat Show Series to Chicago and to partner with Navy Pier Marina to provide the Midwest with an unprecedented opportunity to experience boating like never before. Hosting this show at the iconic Navy Pier makes this the best location to match our goal to elevate the traditional boat show model by combining a truly immersive, high-end experience with the allure of the water and the excitement of luxury living.”
Revel Republic’s ongoing partnership with TRAFFIK Advertising ensures that the event will be a standout experience, pushing the boundaries of what a boat show can offer while delivering tangible value for sponsors and partners.
For more information about the Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina visit officialchibs.com
ABOUT REVEL REPUBLIC
Revel Republic is an experiential creative agency based in Southern California, known for transforming spaces, storytelling, and crafting unique experiences that build powerful connections between brands and audiences. With a focus on pushing the boundaries of traditional event models, Revel Republic creates innovative, memorable experiences in collaboration with its partners, including TRAFFIK Advertising. Visit revel-republic.com and wearetraffik.com for information on both companies.
ABOUT NAVY PIER MARINA
NPM Venture LLC was formed to develop Navy Pier Marina by Chicago native Randy D. Podolsky. Randy has envisioned a recreational marina at Navy Pier, which would provide unprecedented waterborne access to Chicago’s iconic tourist destination, Navy Pier, since he started his boating adventures in 1983. Randy has been an active member of the Chicago-area commercial real estate scene since 1976. Since 1979 he has headed Riverwoods, IL based Podolsky & Associates, Ltd and Riverwoods Development Partners. He has been working on the development of Navy Pier Marina since 2016 and is excited to turn his vision into a reality for all recreational boaters interested in an easy-to-reserve transient mooring in the heart of Chicago.
For more information and to reserve transient reservation visit navypiermarina.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kamber Jones
Kamber@Revel-Republic.com
Revel-Republic.com
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I am very excited to share that we have entered into an agreement with the City of Chicago, allowing the long-awaited Navy Pier Marina to be built. We will work hard to construct the transient marina in the coming year, and we anticipate opening by early summer 2025.
We will welcome boaters from Chicago, the Great Lakes, Great Loopers, and boating groups and clubs looking for modern mooring facilities in the heart of Chicago!
Please help us spread the news within the boating community. A description of the marina and its amenities, as well as updates about ongoing construction, the opening date, and how to make reservations, will be posted on our website: www.navypiermarina.com.
We thank Mayor Johnson’s administration for its cooperation and foresight in seeing the many benefits that Navy Pier Marina will bring to Navy Pier, the City of Chicago, and its citizens. We also thank Navy Pier Inc. for its continued collaboration and support for the project.
We will keep you updated as things develop.
Randy
I am very excited to share that we have entered into an agreement with the City of Chicago, allowing the long-awaited Navy Pier Marina to be built. We will work hard to construct the transient marina in the coming year, and we anticipate opening by early summer 2025.
We will welcome boaters from Chicago, the Great Lakes, Great Loopers, and boating groups and clubs looking for modern mooring facilities in the heart of Chicago!
Please help us spread the news within the boating community. A description of the marina and its amenities, as well as updates about ongoing construction, the opening date, and how to make reservations, will be posted on our website: www.navypiermarina.com.
We thank Mayor Johnson’s administration for its cooperation and foresight in seeing the many benefits that Navy Pier Marina will bring to Navy Pier, the City of Chicago, and its citizens. We also thank Navy Pier Inc. for its continued collaboration and support for the project.
We will keep you updated as things develop.
Randy
🚨 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT! 🚨 @wgnnews Chicago aired an investigative report on why Navy Pier Marina has not yet been built. Watch the full story at the link in our bio, and listen to what reporter, @benbradleytv, shared with viewers alike. #NavyPier #NavyPierMarina
DO YOUR PART TO SUPPORT: No need to send money, please just sign our petition. #linkinbio 👈🏽
#navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
🚨 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT! 🚨 @wgnnews Chicago aired an investigative report on why Navy Pier Marina has not yet been built. Watch the full story at the link in our bio, and listen to what reporter, @benbradleytv, shared with viewers alike. #NavyPier #NavyPierMarina
DO YOUR PART TO SUPPORT: No need to send money, please just sign our petition. #linkinbio 👈🏽
#navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
🗣 BREAKING NEWS!!
@wgntv Chicago will be airing an investigative report on why #NavyPierMarina has not yet been built.
TUNE IN ➡️ tomorrow, Tuesday, September 27th on the 9pm CST news with @benbradleytv.
SHOW SUPPORT by signing our change.org petition at #linkinbio. — No need to donate money, please just sign up and spread the word!
📧 UPDATES: Sign up for our e-newsletter at navypiermarina.com.
#navypiermarina #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
🗣 BREAKING NEWS!!
@wgntv Chicago will be airing an investigative report on why #NavyPierMarina has not yet been built.
TUNE IN ➡️ tomorrow, Tuesday, September 27th on the 9pm CST news with @benbradleytv.
SHOW SUPPORT by signing our change.org petition at #linkinbio. — No need to donate money, please just sign up and spread the word!
📧 UPDATES: Sign up for our e-newsletter at navypiermarina.com.
#navypiermarina #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
As most of you may know, we have been trying to get Navy Pier Marina built in Chicago. The project started in 2015 and received full City Council approval in 2016. From there, all permits were issued by the US Army Corp and IDNR (plus many other agencies). Then the water purification plant nearby decided they were not in favor of the marina at Navy Pier, and wrongly encouraged CDOT to throw a wrench in the works by not issuing our last ministerial construction permit. It has been a struggle since then, but I WILL NOT GIVE UP!!
In our effort to continue pressing forward with mass support, I created a Change.org petition to raise awareness. #linkinbio
📝 I would be grateful if you could sign up and help me by spreading the word through social and email to anyone you think would be interested.
All #LakeMichiganBoaters should be interested in seeing this recreational transient boat marina come to fruition! 📣
Now...WHO`S WITH ME?!?
#navypiermarina #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
As most of you may know, we have been trying to get Navy Pier Marina built in Chicago. The project started in 2015 and received full City Council approval in 2016. From there, all permits were issued by the US Army Corp and IDNR (plus many other agencies). Then the water purification plant nearby decided they were not in favor of the marina at Navy Pier, and wrongly encouraged CDOT to throw a wrench in the works by not issuing our last ministerial construction permit. It has been a struggle since then, but I WILL NOT GIVE UP!!
In our effort to continue pressing forward with mass support, I created a Change.org petition to raise awareness. #linkinbio
📝 I would be grateful if you could sign up and help me by spreading the word through social and email to anyone you think would be interested.
All #LakeMichiganBoaters should be interested in seeing this recreational transient boat marina come to fruition! 📣
Now...WHO`S WITH ME?!?
#navypiermarina #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoboatingcommunity #chicagoboaters #lakemichigan #illinoisboating #transientmarinachicago #chicagomarinas
We need your help ➡ If a short-term, transient dock at Navy Pier sounds like something you`d take advantage of as an additional way to explore Chicago, can you tell that to the city?
@wttwchicago recently shared updates in their article titled, "A Giant Marina to Attract Boaters Was Approved at Navy Pier. Why Hasn’t It Been Built?" WE COULDN`T AGREE MORE!!
Read all about it here ➡️ navypiermarina.com/inthenews
If they grant us a permit, we`d bring this to life for you. Consider sharing your thoughts with the following individuals ⤵
Samir Mayekar
Deputy Mayor, Development
📧 Samir.Mayekar@cityofchicago.org
Gia Biagi
Commissioner, CDOT
📧 Gia.Biagi@cityofchicago.org
If sending them an email is outside of your comfort zone (we understand), perhaps you`d consider sharing this post with your friends instead. Your support is greatly appreciated.
We need your help ➡ If a short-term, transient dock at Navy Pier sounds like something you`d take advantage of as an additional way to explore Chicago, can you tell that to the city?
@wttwchicago recently shared updates in their article titled, "A Giant Marina to Attract Boaters Was Approved at Navy Pier. Why Hasn’t It Been Built?" WE COULDN`T AGREE MORE!!
Read all about it here ➡️ navypiermarina.com/inthenews
If they grant us a permit, we`d bring this to life for you. Consider sharing your thoughts with the following individuals ⤵
Samir Mayekar
Deputy Mayor, Development
📧 Samir.Mayekar@cityofchicago.org
Gia Biagi
Commissioner, CDOT
📧 Gia.Biagi@cityofchicago.org
If sending them an email is outside of your comfort zone (we understand), perhaps you`d consider sharing this post with your friends instead. Your support is greatly appreciated.
The ferris wheel on Navy Pier is a nod to the history of the pier itself, as well as an icon that represents Chicago and the lake on which it sits. #NavyPierMarina will give boaters a short-term, transient docking option with quick and convenient access to this and other Chicago landmarks. WHICH IS WHY..... 👇
We just need the city to grant us the permit to build it. 📣
Tune in to this recent radio spot on @wlsam890 which respectfully covers the topic, "What is the Hold Up With the Navy Pier Marina?" 😉 #linkinbio
Read + listen to more on our full website // navypiermarina.com/inthenews
#navypiermarina #marinastatus #chicagoboating #buildthemarina #cityofchicago #chicagomarina #npm #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoairandwatershow
The ferris wheel on Navy Pier is a nod to the history of the pier itself, as well as an icon that represents Chicago and the lake on which it sits. #NavyPierMarina will give boaters a short-term, transient docking option with quick and convenient access to this and other Chicago landmarks. WHICH IS WHY..... 👇
We just need the city to grant us the permit to build it. 📣
Tune in to this recent radio spot on @wlsam890 which respectfully covers the topic, "What is the Hold Up With the Navy Pier Marina?" 😉 #linkinbio
Read + listen to more on our full website // navypiermarina.com/inthenews
#navypiermarina #marinastatus #chicagoboating #buildthemarina #cityofchicago #chicagomarina #npm #navypier #navypierchicago #chicagoairandwatershow
In short, we are still waiting for a construction permit from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).
Navy Pier Marina has received permits and approvals from all other governmental agencies including the US Corp of Engineers (USACE), the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDNR), the Illinois EPA, as well as unanimous City Council approval of the project back in September 2016.
Read more, and discover how you can support our efforts to receive the permit, on our website:
💻 navypiermarina.com/inthenews
In short, we are still waiting for a construction permit from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).
Navy Pier Marina has received permits and approvals from all other governmental agencies including the US Corp of Engineers (USACE), the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDNR), the Illinois EPA, as well as unanimous City Council approval of the project back in September 2016.
Read more, and discover how you can support our efforts to receive the permit, on our website:
💻 navypiermarina.com/inthenews
The concept of a marina at Navy Pier was born decades ago by avid boaters. 🛥 Perfected in 2016 as the preeminent transient marina on the Great Lakes, #NavyPierMarina was envisioned by the project developer, Randy D. Podolsky, a Chicago born and raised entrepreneur, out of the need for a Lake Michigan boating destination.
Navy Pier Marina would offer boaters short-term, transient docking as well as quick and convenient access to dining, lodging and entertainment at Navy Pier and within the City of Chicago.
Construction is scheduled to commence shortly after Chicago`s DOT issues the final construction permit, which we have been awaiting for several years.
Read more on our website, and show your support in the comments below ⤵
The concept of a marina at Navy Pier was born decades ago by avid boaters. 🛥 Perfected in 2016 as the preeminent transient marina on the Great Lakes, #NavyPierMarina was envisioned by the project developer, Randy D. Podolsky, a Chicago born and raised entrepreneur, out of the need for a Lake Michigan boating destination.
Navy Pier Marina would offer boaters short-term, transient docking as well as quick and convenient access to dining, lodging and entertainment at Navy Pier and within the City of Chicago.
Construction is scheduled to commence shortly after Chicago`s DOT issues the final construction permit, which we have been awaiting for several years.
Read more on our website, and show your support in the comments below ⤵
Revel Republic Expands In-Water Boat Show Series with New Chicago Event
November 25, 2024
Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina, August 21 – 24, 2025
Los Angeles/Orange County/San Diego, CA — Revel Republic, in collaboration with TRAFFIK Advertising, is excited to announce the expansion of its highly successful In-Water Boat Show Series, with the addition of the prestigious Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina. This new event, following the success of the Newport Beach and San Diego boat shows, is a significant milestone in the series’ growth, promising to redefine the boat show experience for modern audiences.
The Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina will take place from August 21st to August 24th, 2025, at Navy Pier, an iconic waterfront destination in the heart of Chicago. This show will continue the momentum built by the Newport Beach International Boat Show at Lido Marina Village (May 1 – 4, 2025) and the San Diego International Boat Show at Safe Harbor Marinas Sun Road (June 19 – 22, 2025). Revel Republic’s innovative approach to boat shows has captivated audiences by blending luxury lifestyle elements with the thrill of boating, creating an experience that appeals to a wider range of lifestyle connoisseurs.
“We’ve seen incredible success in the cross-pollination of industries, where bringing together engaged audiences creates the kind of energy and excitement that our partners and sponsors are seeking from live events,” said Hany Ghabour, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Revel Republic. “By blending the worlds of boating, luxury, and high-end living, we’re not just creating a boat show — we’re creating an immersive lifestyle experience that attracts the right audience, with the intention and focus our sponsors desire.”
Anthony Trimino, CEO of both Revel Republic and TRAFFIK Advertising, emphasized the modernization of boat show experiences: “Our goal is to introduce new boaters to a world they haven’t experienced while reintroducing seasoned boaters to an innovative way of enjoying boat shows. By leveraging new-age marketing strategies and a fresh approach to event production, we are creating larger reach and engagement, making the boating lifestyle accessible and exciting for everyone.”
Revel Republic’s In-Water Boat Show Series is distinct for its approach to modernizing the traditional boat show format. Beyond showcasing luxury yachts and boats, the event integrates elements from industries such as exotic cars, private aviation, fine jewelry, gourmet cuisine, and VIP entertainment. By offering a multifaceted experience, Revel Republic is broadening the appeal of boat shows, reaching diverse audiences with a shared appreciation for luxury and sophistication.
Randy Podolsky, developer of Navy Pier Marina and avid boater shared, “We could not be more excited to collaborate with Revel Republic as the CHIBS producer based upon their track-record for planning and executing successful boat shows in other highly regarded locations. Navy Pier Marina offers more than a boat show with direct access to Navy Pier’s countless restaurants, attractions and amenities. This will be an event for the entire family.”
The Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina is expected to feature an exclusive lineup of luxury boats, yachts, and watercraft, alongside curated showcases from luxury automotive brands, private aviation, and world-class culinary experiences. Attendees can expect a highly curated, VIP-style atmosphere designed to foster meaningful connections, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
Bernard Kida, In-Water Boat Show Series Executive Producer and Co-Founder of Revel Republic, shared, “We’re thrilled to bring the In-Water Boat Show Series to Chicago and to partner with Navy Pier Marina to provide the Midwest with an unprecedented opportunity to experience boating like never before. Hosting this show at the iconic Navy Pier makes this the best location to match our goal to elevate the traditional boat show model by combining a truly immersive, high-end experience with the allure of the water and the excitement of luxury living.”
Revel Republic’s ongoing partnership with TRAFFIK Advertising ensures that the event will be a standout experience, pushing the boundaries of what a boat show can offer while delivering tangible value for sponsors and partners.
For more information about the Chicago International Boat Show at Navy Pier Marina visit officialchibs.com
ABOUT REVEL REPUBLIC
Revel Republic is an experiential creative agency based in Southern California, known for transforming spaces, storytelling, and crafting unique experiences that build powerful connections between brands and audiences. With a focus on pushing the boundaries of traditional event models, Revel Republic creates innovative, memorable experiences in collaboration with its partners, including TRAFFIK Advertising. Visit revel-republic.com and wearetraffik.com for information on both companies.
ABOUT NAVY PIER MARINA
NPM Venture LLC was formed to develop Navy Pier Marina by Chicago native Randy D. Podolsky. Randy has envisioned a recreational marina at Navy Pier, which would provide unprecedented waterborne access to Chicago’s iconic tourist destination, Navy Pier, since he started his boating adventures in 1983. Randy has been an active member of the Chicago-area commercial real estate scene since 1976. Since 1979 he has headed Riverwoods, IL based Podolsky & Associates, Ltd and Riverwoods Development Partners. He has been working on the development of Navy Pier Marina since 2016 and is excited to turn his vision into a reality for all recreational boaters interested in an easy-to-reserve transient mooring in the heart of Chicago.
For more information and to reserve transient reservation visit navypiermarina.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kamber Jones
Kamber@Revel-Republic.com
Revel-Republic.com
