Boat Show 101
Boat show season is quickly approaching, and we’re here to tell you what to expect. Whether this is your first time at a boat show or your hundredth, it is important to know why you should go to boat shows and what you should expect to get out of it.
Why You Should Go
One Place. Major Brands. Endless Options.
Boat shows give you the unique opportunity to see a variety of brands and models side by side, all under one roof. Instead of spending multiple days driving from dealership to dealership or watching videos online, you get to touch, feel, and climb onto each boat in person. Sit in the captain’s seat, test the storage, and compare different layouts. Figure out what you do and don’t want in a boat. See what makes each boat unique and find the perfect fit for your family.
Best Time to Buy a Boat
Manufacturers and dealers put their best foot forward at boat shows by incentivizing their boats with exclusive sales you can only get at the shows. This is one of the best times to buy a boat. If purchasing a boat is on your horizon, attending a show can simplify that journey and even save you time and money.
Experience New Models and Innovations
While you can see walkthroughs and features through video, nothing compares to seeing new tech in person. Experience new technology hands-on and be the first to see new models. See the new standard of innovation and take home brochures and information that you won’t find anywhere else.
What to Expect
Beyond boat shopping, boat shows are simply fun. Most booths offer free swag, merch, and giveaways – and if you stop by the MasterCraft booth, kids can even create their own MasterCraft hat. Yes, they’ll love it. Yes, you’ll love that they are occupied.
Many shows also include education sessions on topics like boating safety, fishing techniques, watersports tips & tricks. Some even feature unique exhibitions with everything ranging from a skiing squirrel to wakeboarding demonstrations inside a hockey rink. Every show has its own personality, so you’ll never know what you’ll be entertained by.
Boat shows are the perfect opportunity to speak to knowledgeable salespeople. You’ll often be asked a series of questions to help salespeople point you to the right boat that will fit your needs. We encourage you to ask your own questions to help you decide what boat to purchase.
Some questions that you could ask:
1. What model of boat will fit into my budget?
2. What's the difference between your ___ model and ___ model?
3. What annual maintenance is recommended?
4. What makes your boats better than other brands?
Download our boat show checklist below for a full guide on what to look for in a boat.
Salespeople are there to help you, not intimidate you. Take advantage of having knowledgeable people right in front of you and ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask. These conversations will help guide you to the boat that best fits your lifestyle.
MasterCraft will be at all major boat shows this season, and we can’t wait to welcome you. Whether you’re actively shopping or just curious about what MasterCraft offers, stop by and explore what makes MasterCraft different.
To find out where we will be, check our full schedule on the Events page.
We look forward to seeing you.
