How to Get the Most from a Boat Show: Practical Tips for Buying a Boat

If you’re considering buying a boat, the internet is a valuable research tool—full of photos, videos and specs. But nothing replaces an in-person inspection: standing at the helm, stretching out in the berths, and checking the bilge. For that, a boat show is the ideal place to thoroughly evaluate vessels, talk to manufacturers and compare options side by side.

Why Now Can Be a Good Time to Buy

George Sass, a contributor to Soundings who has worked both as a longtime boater and as a marketing consultant for boatbuilders and marine suppliers, believes the current market presents opportunity. Many smaller or weaker builders have left the market, while remaining manufacturers exhibiting at shows tend to be those with stronger products and financial footing. That means buyers are often looking at the “cream of the crop.”

Sass also notes that dealers and builders are motivated to sell, particularly older inventory such as previous-year models. Many 2009 and 2010 boats differ little from newer models, so last year’s inventory can offer significant value. Smaller custom and semicustom yards may be more willing to negotiate or accommodate special requests to keep production moving. At the same time, don’t overlook reputable builders who aren’t exhibiting—some good companies simply choose to skip the expense of a show.

Inspect Beyond the Brochure

Boat shows put you where you need to be to evaluate a boat’s real-world qualities. Look for workmanship and attention to detail: cleanly finished fiberglass, tidy wiring, dry bilges and properly installed hardware. These small visible issues can indicate overall build quality and the dealer’s or builder’s level of care. Conversely, piles of fiberglass dust, sloppy wiring or puddles of oil in storage lockers and bilges are red flags.

Practical Show Strategies

I’ve covered major U.S. boat shows for nearly 16 years and spent eight years editing Powerboat Reports, which helped me learn how to identify quality boats, question knowledgeable staff, and collect the data needed to form solid buying recommendations. Here are practical tips to make your boat-show visit efficient and productive:

Attend on a weekday if possible. Weekdays are less crowded, and senior staff and company representatives often arrive for trade or media days, making it easier to speak with decision-makers.
Study the show map in advance and plot a route so you can focus on the boats and displays that matter most to you.
Plan for a long day. Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated and take breaks aboard boats you’re evaluating to get a true feel for layout and ergonomics.
Slip-on shoes are convenient—some builders ask visitors to remove shoes before boarding to protect interiors.
Limit printed brochures. Collect business cards and digital materials instead: use your phone to photograph layouts and spec sheets or save specifications to review later.
Recognize that not every booth attendant has technical knowledge. Ask for experienced salespeople, technicians or the builder’s representative when you need detailed answers.
Assess the caliber of staff on display and demo boats. If temporary or inexperienced personnel are representing a high-value product, that can be telling.

Do Your Homework Before You Go

If you’re seriously considering a purchase, arrive prepared. Research prices, standard equipment and common options for the models you like. Many builders now offer online configurators and price calculators; brokerage listings are also useful for comparative pricing. Before the show, try to schedule private walkthroughs with dealers or builders so you get focused time with a knowledgeable representative.

Prepare a list of specific questions and a checklist or chart to compare models on features that matter to you: construction materials (vinylester vs. polyester resin), hull type (deep-vee vs. modified-vee), propulsion systems, and expected fuel consumption. Ask for documentation supporting build methods and warranties. And importantly, require a sea trial before you buy. There’s no substitute for driving a boat in real conditions—ideally including some rough water—to judge handling, noise, vibration and fuel burn for yourself.

Use the Show to Expand Options

Don’t limit yourself to new models on the main docks. Brokerage tents or nearby “side shows” often feature lightly used examples of models you admire but can’t afford new. Exploring those options can lead to better value and lower ownership costs.

Approach a boat show with preparation, patience and a critical eye. With the right strategy—pre-visit research, focused inspections and thorough question lists—you’ll be in a strong position to find a boat that fits your needs, budget and expectations.

This article originally appeared in the October 2011 issue.