Boat shows are exciting, offering a unique chance to view a vast array of boats, services, and programs all in one place. But for serious buyers, the options and information can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a long-time boater or just beginning the journey, boat shows are the perfect opportunity to research, compare, and take a tangible step towards your dream of boat ownership. To get the most from a boat show, a little planning and focus can go a long way.
Why Preparation is Key
Preparation is essential to maximize both enjoyment and productivity at a boat show. Before heading out, research your preferred boats, financing options, and any ownership programs you’re interested in. Knowing what you’re looking for not only makes you a more confident buyer but also ensures your time at the show is well-spent. If possible, narrow down your choices to a few boats and make a list of questions specific to your priorities. Understanding pricing, construction features, design elements, and other important details will help you stay focused and make informed decisions.
Tips for Planning Your Day
- Logistics First: Check the best transportation options and parking arrangements in advance.
- Get Ahead on Tickets: Arrange for tickets in advance, ideally through your broker or salesperson to avoid waiting in lines.
- Organize Appointments: If possible, set up a walk-through with a salesperson to get private access to boats you’re seriously considering.
- Gather Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the basic boat features, design, and technical aspects (such as engines, sails, and electronics) so you can ask informed questions.
Maximizing Your Time at the Boat Show
Once you’re at the show, take time to tour each boat on your shortlist, sitting in different areas to get a feel for how the space would work for you. Bring family or friends for a second perspective, and jot down pros, cons, and your impressions. If you’re prepared, you’ll be in a great position to recognize a good deal if one presents itself.
If you’re considering putting your boat into a charter program, find a charter yacht sales expert who can guide you through this process. They can help clarify aspects you may not have thought about, like tax advantages, exit strategies, or long-term maintenance costs. Read this for some guidance
- Yacht Charter Management Programs In A Nutshell
- Yacht Ownership Programs Pros & Cons
- Charter Management Programs Explained
Day-of Tips for a Great Experience
- Choose the Right Day: Attend on a weekday or the first or last day of the show when crowds are thinner, and you can get more one-on-one time with sales reps.
- Keep Organized: Bring a pen, notebook, and a bag for brochures and business cards. Track key details like boat specs, names, and phone numbers.
- Take Notes: Write down everything—from initial impressions to specific details—to refer to later as you make your decision.
Boat shows are a fantastic step towards realizing your dream of boat ownership, allowing you to see, compare, and connect with experts. With the right preparation and approach, you’ll have an enjoyable experience—and maybe even leave with the keys to your dream boat.
- Yacht Charter Management Programs In A Nutshell
- Yacht Ownership Programs Pros & Cons
- Charter Management Programs Explained
Also, read about the boat show you are attending and follow them on social media to get the latest on events, seminars, etc. You may find the product you are looking at will have a special deal or event where you can learn more. For example, we often present seminars about yacht ownership programs or liveaboard lifestyle, but most often you have to register in advance. So at least a month out, start following what is going to be happening at the boat show.
If you plan to put your boat into charter, find a knowledgeable charter yacht sales representative to guide you through the process of choosing the right program for you. The representative can help you consider areas you may not have considered like an exit strategy or tax advantage differences among programs. And the charter yacht broker, at no cost to you, will negotiate unemotionally on your behalf. As representatives of buyers, boat builders, charter companies, and as owners ourselves, we help buyers like you identify quality boats and understand what ownership programs will suit their needs.
Tips for Day of a Boat Show
- Attend on a weekday to avoid the the throngs of weekend entertainment seekers. Traffic on the boats are lighter which gives you a better feel of the boat and time with salespeople to ask questions.
- Attend on the first day or last day if you are ready to negotiate as boat company decision-makers are more readily available to talk and make a deal during these quieter days.
- Be prepared with a list of people’s names if you have talked to boat company representatives before.
- Take pen and paper and be prepared to keep up with brochures and business cards.
- Write down everything…impressions, facts, figures, names, phone numbers, etc.
Remember to have fun and hopefully you will find your dream boat at the same time!
