Is a boat show the best time to buy a boat, and if so why?

Question

Is a boat show the best time to buy a boat, and if so why?

Answer 1

A lot of times at boat shoes they give some show prices and discounts.

Answer 2

How much do you think it costs the dealer to pay for the show? I spend over $100,000.00 every year on shows and displays, and I pass it on to you! The factories do give up some additional discounts, but I will give you the same deal at my store and make more money doing it. Look folks, I have been a dealer for 25 years and I'm honest. Our major show in the fall costs me over $15,000.00 just for the area to display! So, here's an example: If I spend 15k, and only sell 10 boats at the show, that means my cost rose on each unit by $1,500.00. If the factory kicks in that additional 1,500 then you got the same deal you would have gotten every day at my store, and I wouldn't have to tow them all over town! There is one important benefit though. During show season (October through March) the major engine manufacturers offer extended warranties at no charge. This by itself can save you thousands. You don't have to buy at the show, but these months are best no matter where in the country you are. It also increases the resale value a few years down the road when you decide to upgrade. Would you rather buy a used boat with or without a warranty? My best suggestion is to go to the show, look at all the pretty fiberglass, write down the prices. Then, go to a couple dealers and find the one you feel will give you courteous service during the sale and after. You should find a dealer that you feel you can trust. Our margins aren't that big, but often you can get a couple more hundred thrown in like a full tank of fuel, complete Coast Guard kit, maybe even a piece of electronics you want etc. Remember, we sell pleasure for a living, so you should have fun while the process is happening and if you feel uncomfortable, you probably aren't at the right dealer. We even stage group events like boat picnics and fun rides just to get boaters together for the day! I hope this helps, and I hope you join our family!

Answer 3

The people at boat shows are there to garner sales of their merchandise (boats).

Be aware of that going in.

Then, allow yourself to feast your eyes!!!   Find a model you want.  Go home.  Check your newspaper for boats.  Compare prices for comparable models.

If it is less expensive at the boat show, buy it there.

But check with your local dealers first.  They might have the best price, and they will honor warranties.

Be sure to read the fine print!!!

Good luck and may God bless you.

P.S.  Have fun!!!

Answer 4

Actually not.

its a good place to look at different boats, to "taste" them, but to find a real bargain there is real hard. Use the information provided by yacht brokers and look somewhere else - there is a lot of sites having new and used brokerage watercraft for sale.

Answer 5

I don't believe so. They are showcasing boats in an environment that is highly susceptible to paying too much and making rash decisions that you may later regret. Find the boat you want and start looking for dealers. My father found the boat he wanted and bought it barely even used for a much cheaper deal because someone who originally bought it changed their mind but had already made an alteration to it. Buying a boat brand new is not like buying a new car. You're better off buying a gently used boat because its going right in the water anyway. You don' tnecessarily worry about all the mileage, etc, that you would worry about when buying a car.

Answer 6

Kathleen M has some good advice. However, if you wait until the last day of the show, you will get an even better deal. You see the dealers don't want to have to tow the boat back. I bought my boat on the last day for 1/2 price. Patience, my friend, patience.

Answer 7

Sometimes it is a good time to buy a new boat. The important thing is do your homework. Unfortunately very few boat makers have a website where you can build and price a new boat just like you can a new car.

You can narrow down what you want and can afford at a show as many dealers are there.

I have found the best deals are after the show especially if the weather turns bad. They order in a lot of stock for these shows and if they don't sell them there they may give better pricing and extras after the show. If your looking to buy go to show and find what you want then go back on last day and talk deals. If they had a good show price might not be better but if they didn't it could be a good time to buy