West Marine, a specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, will hold the grand opening celebration of its newest flagship store in Fort Myers, Thursday, July 19, through Sunday, July 22. Fort Myers area water enthusiasts can take part in the weekend celebration at the store, located at 7070 College Parkway, Suite 102, at the intersection of College Parkway and U.S. 41 / Tamiami Trail.

Festivities begin at 8 a.m. and continue until 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Family-friendly activities throughout the weekend: high tech electronics demonstrations with Raymarine, Garmin, Sony, Navico, Lowrance and Icom.

Experts provide tips and tricks on how to maximize your boat’s performance and expand your fishing expertise.

Renowned underwater photographer Tony Ludovico will be on deck with free autographed prints for the first 50 fans. (Saturday, noon to 2 p.m.)

Edgar Hansen, deck boss and chief engineer of the F/V Northwestern featured on “Deadliest Catch,” will meet shoppers and sign autographs. (Saturday 24 p.m.).

There will be Door-Buster discounts throughout the weekend along with raffle prizes and giveaways. There will also be free refreshments, while supplies last

“Cruising for a Cause” Charity Night will be held tonight, July 19, from 6-9 p.m. at the store. Tickets are $10 and available at the door or through the following local charities: Edison Sailing Center; Children’s Museum of Naples Responsible Youth Angler Program (C’MON); Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation; Snook & Gamefish Foundation; Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and Ding Darling Refugee Society. Featured, will be a live auction that will include a fishing trip for four on Friday, July 20, with Edgar Hansen of “Deadliest Catch.” Plus, two limited edition prints by renowned photographer, Tony Ludovico, will be auctioned. All proceeds from the evening will directly support participating non-profits. Attendees will enjoy food, drinks and live entertainment.

For more information on West Marine’s products and store locations, or to start shopping, visit westmarine.com or call 1-800-BOATING (1-800-262-8464).