20 Must-Know Tips for Your First Boat Show
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 380 at the 2024 Auckland Boat Show
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From Auckland to Annapolis, boat shows are a highlight of the calendar year for the marine industry and the thousands of boaties that attend. Nowhere else will you find the latest model sailboats and sailing gear all at one venue along with expert advice. Thinking about heading along this year? It's an awesome way to check out the latest trends, get inspired, and find a good deal on marine equipment. Plus, you can meet other sailing enthusiasts and learn from their experiences. It's like a big party for boat lovers and it’s family friendly. Even the people watching is fun!
I can guarantee you could know absolutely nothing about sailboats and still have a blast at a boat show. After all, who doesn’t enjoy stepping onboard a big fancy boat for a sneaky peak. You may in fact find yourself deciding that perhaps the sailing life might be for you! So if you’re thinking about heading along to a show near you — it’s well worth it.
So let’s set you up with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit. These 19 top tips will ensure you see everything you want to, and have a great time doing it. But if you’re new to boating and still wondering if it’s worth attending, let’s answer a few common questions first, so you’ll feel right at home buying your first boat show ticket.
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If you’re wondering…
Aren’t boat shows just or the uber wealthy?
I can’t afford to buy a boat yet, is it still worth going?
How is the show set up?
20 Must-Know Tips for Your First Boat Show:1. Set a goal (know why you’re going)
3. Dress comfortably and for the weather
4. Pick a week day to attend (as well as the weekend)
8. Ask questions (Don't be shy!)
9. Don’t be THAT person (who won’t stop talking)
10. Take notes (unless you’ve got an amazing memory)
12. Don’t feel pressured to buy
15. Enjoy the party atmosphere
16. Take your time (especially if you’re there for more than one day)
20. Meet your favourite sailing channel YouTubers!
Sailors from around the globe gather in beautiful downtown Annapolis every October for the Annapolis Sailboat Show.
If you’re wondering…
Aren’t boat shows just for the uber wealthy?
Nope! Boat shows are a great opportunity for anyone interested in boating to explore, learn, and have fun! While there may be luxury yachts and high-end equipment on display, boat shows cater to a wide range of people, from sailing enthusiasts to beginners. You can find boats and gear at various price points, and there are often deals and discounts available. While you may not have the budget for a brand spanking new boat — it’ll still give you a good basis to research older models or second-hand boats for your own sailing journey.
I can’t afford to buy a boat yet, is it still worth going?
Definitely! The more knowledge and first hand experience you have looking at boats and learning more about different models – the better equipped you’ll be to make your decision to buy – when the time is right for you. Plus it’s fun! It’s such a great atmosphere being around so many people that are into the sailing life – and you’ll find yourself even more motivated to save and budget for your sailing plans. And you never know who you’ll meet – you may end up chatting to someone local to you who’s looking for crew!
How is the show set up?
At a boat show, different boat manufacturers, dealers, and vendors set up booths or exhibits to showcase their boats, equipment, and accessories. Visitors can walk around the show and explore the various exhibits. You can board the boats, check out their features, and speak with the exhibitors to learn more. Boat shows often have seminars, demonstrations, and even special events like sailing competitions. It's a fun and interactive way to see the latest trends, compare different boats, and get expert advice. So, you can think of it like a big marketplace for all things boating!
Generally there’s two major parts to a boat show — with boats on display outside and booths inside. Some boat shows specialise in Powerboats or Sailboats. Often there are local venues hosting party events over the show time too. Check the event website and map for an overview of who’s attending and where they’ll be located.
Outside — On the water, slips and piers will be packed full of boats on display from cruising sailboats, to charterboats and superyachts. Oftentimes there are demonstrations and sailing classes you can sign up for over the weekend. On land around the venue, there will be an array of sailing dinghies, inflatable boats, trailer sailors, and all sorts of super fun water toys — from SUPs, to inflatable lounges and more!
Inside — Inside booths are where you’ll find all kinds of maritime equipment, services and accessories (anything from refrigeration to electronics to life saving equipment – and so much more!). Annapolis Boat Show is all about the sailing lifestyle so there’s also an incredible range of clothing, bags, soft furnishings, jewellery, watches and everything to do with living aboard and enjoying time on the water.
There’s always lots to see and compare onboard different boats
Here’s how to make the most of your time at a boat show:
If you’re new to the boat show scene, it’s helpful to have some expert advice so you feel more comfortable going along for the first time. Follow these tips, and I’m confident next year you’ll be signing up to go again!
Set a goal
Knowing why you’re going to the boat show will help you set a goal for what you want out of the visit.
Maybe you’re going for a fun weekend, to meet up with some friends, check out some fancy boats and enjoy the great vibe with some good food along the way!
Maybe you’re actually in the market for a new boat and there’s a couple of models on show that you’ve been researching and are keen to see, and want to finalise your decision to make a purchase.
Maybe you want to buy a new dinghy, electric outboard or sailing gear and listen in on some boating demonstrations.
Or – you may simply want to learn more about the boating industry and this seems like a great way to dive in.
Whatever your reason, get clear on a) why you’re going and b) if there’s anything specific you want to achieve, so c) you can plan for that. Then you can decide if you want to do a one day or multi-day visit and buy your tickets early.
Check out the list of boats that will be on show so you don’t miss any you want to see!
2. Plan ahead
Check out the event schedule and make a list of the exhibits, boats, seminars, or activities you don't want to miss.
Big boating shows like Annapolis Sailboat Show are super busy with crowds and you’ll want to make the most of your time. Check the event map so you know where the vendors will be ahead of time – you don’t want to get home and realise you missed something you were hoping to see.
Of course, half the fun is discovering new products and meeting new people along the way too!
Boat shows are fun no matter the weather — as long as you wear the right gear!
3. Dress comfortably and for the weather
Rain or shine — the boat show is a good time! And you may be surprised but you’ll walk A LOT during the boat show. It’s surprising just how quickly your steps add up! Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and check the forecast — you’ll likely need a hat and sunscreen, or rain jacket if it’s wet.
4. Pick a week day to attend (as well as the weekend)
Crowds will be lighter during the week, but there’s often some events and demos you don’t want to miss on the weekend. So pick a weekend day too - there’s so much to see that two days will be well worth your time!
5. Wear easy on/off shoes
You’ll need to take your shoes off before you step onboard any boat (it’s a bare feet or socks only situation). Wearing easy to put on and off shoes is a must! Trust me — you do not want to be sporting lace ups at the boat show. Space at a show is limited, and you don’t want to be clogging up the pier while you try and re-tie your shoes for the millionth time that day. It’s kinda like going through the narrow airport security line and you have to put your shoes back on while lines of people are hustling to get past you and grab their bags while you balance on one foot tying sneakers wishing you’d worn your slip ons.
Beat the crowds and arrive at the Marina early
6. Arrive early
Grab an early coffee and beat the crowds by arriving at the boat show as soon as it opens. This way it’s quieter and you chat while the sales reps are fresh, especially if want to get a closer look at specific boats before they get crowded, or if you're interested in popular seminars.
There are plenty of evening events and city night life to check out — featured Auckland City
7. Stay nearby
The closer to the venue you are, the more accommodation will cost but if you can afford to splash out a bit for the weekend experience, it’s worth paying more to be as close to the show as possible. This will save a ton of travel time. Plus there are always plenty of evening parties and events happening so you can be more spontaneous and join in if you don’t have to worry about travelling far to get home.
8. Ask questions (Don't be shy!)
Don’t be shy to ask questions of exhibitors, dealers and expert marine reps. Everyone is there to help and share their knowledge with you. Ask about the latest technology, products or services, maintenance tips, price packages or anything else you're curious about. Of course, a well researched question will always be most appreciated!
9. Don’t be THAT person (who won’t stop talking)
It’s a balancing act between finding out what you want to know, but not taking up all the exhibitor’s time. Ask a couple of questions and move on. If you have follow up questions, brilliant! Grab their brochure or business card and flick them an email. They’ll appreciate the breathing space and being able to send you a much more complete and comprehensive answer after the show.
Some customers take up so much time, while others patiently wait only to realise that this particular chatty customer is on a full on hour talk-a-thon (oblivious to anyone waiting) — which leaves the exhibitor politely trying to extricate themselves from the conversation, and signal to others waiting, that she/he won’t be long. Don’t be that person!
10. Take notes (unless you’ve got an amazing memory)
You’ll be introduced to a lot of great people and products over the boat show weekend. And you might think you’re going to remember that person who showed you that thing, from that company — but trust me, you’ll be wishing you’d made a note of it. So use your phone notes or bring a notebook and jot down any important information or ideas that you come across. It'll help you remember everything later, especially when it comes to making purchasing decisions or following up with someone you met.
A quick photo will remind you of gear you’re keen to check out more
11. Take photos
A quick snap of a cool idea onboard or gadget or something you’ve seen at the show will remind you of what it was to look up later.
A classic saying…but sometimes you have to wait until the time is right to buy
12. Don’t feel pressured to buy
Take your time to compare different product features and prices before making a decision. Ask for brochures or take pictures to help you remember the details. Don't feel pressured to buy on the spot — take the time to weigh your options and consider your budget, and boating needs.
13. Negotiate
A boat show is the perfect place to connect with product owners, dealers and sales reps. It’s ok to politely ask if there’s any room to negotiate on price, finance or timeframes — some vendors have flexibility on a particular package or price for you or perhaps they can extend the special Boat Show price for a longer period, depending on their inventory or wait times.
Boat shows are family friendly. This kid gives the winches a whirl on LION New Zealand — an ex Whitbread Round the World Yacht at Auckland Boat Show
14. Attend free seminars
Annapolis Boat Show and many others around the world offer free educational seminars and workshops on various topics related to sailing such as boat handling, navigation, safety, and maintenance. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn from industry professionals and expand your knowledge and skills.
Good yarns with friends and fellow sailors
15. Enjoy the party atmosphere
Boat shows aren’t just about boats and equipment — it’s about the lifestyle and meeting up with friends and making new ones. They're also a chance to connect with other sailing enthusiasts and share stories. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the experience!
There’s plenty to see and incredible products to admire (like the OC Tenders — my fav!)
16. Take your time (especially if you’re there for more than one day)
Don't rush through the show. Take your time to explore each exhibit, have a chat and enjoy the experience. And enter the array of competitions on offer — someone has to win!
Exhibitors are super friendly and keen to chat about their products with you
17. Book a test drive
If you’ve got your eye on a particular boat to buy, take advantage of any opportunities to test drive it or see a demo boat at the show. This hands-on experience will give you a better sense of how it performs on the water and help in decision making. Although if you’re only at the show for one day, this will take quite a bit of your time, which is where your goal and planning in Tips 1 and 2 come into play.
18. Network
Boat shows are a great place to meet fellow sailing enthusiasts. Strike up conversations, exchange tips and stories, and make new connections. Take the time to network and exchange tips, advice, and recommendations.
19. Stay hydrated
Walking around a boat show amongst big crowds can be tiring, so be sure to stay hydrated! It’s easy to get so involved in the day and then realise you haven’t had anything to drink. You could bring a water bottle and snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day — or take advantage of the great food stalls and drinks on offer!
20. Meet your favourite sailing channel YouTubers!
Big shows around the world like Annapolis Boat Show host YouTubers for a massive meet and greet. It’s a highlight for many people attending the show. Check out the sailing channels attending as it’s a pretty cool to get a chance to say hi in real life. And pick up some merch to support the video creators you watch online. It’s such a good buzz in the crowd and it’s a cool opportunity. There are huge lines at the meet ups though, so you might want to plan your day around the best time to get in line!
In Summary
Boat shows are good fun and these must-know tips will help you make the most of your day out, and enjoy exploring all the boats, products, and activities the boat show has to offer. Whether you're there to make a deal on a boat or simply soak up the atmosphere, it’s a great opportunity to indulge your passion for boating.
Buy some swag. Enjoy yourself!
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Don’t miss this upcoming documentary on the remarkable life and sailing career of legendary sailing icon — Buddy Melges.