Boat show smarts

Boat/US Magazine, Sept, 2003 by Caroline Ajootian

Others stress that the major boat shows are great places to rub elbows with marine manufacturer VIPs and other key industry members.

"Atlantic City is better for talking to dealers. The New York [National Boat Show] is better [or talking to factory people," said a New Jersey boater. "I've met some of the principals of the various boat companies in New York City including, Scott Adams, Michael Fiore, Reggie Fountain and a few VP types from other companies."

* No kidding. As one Maryland boater said, "If you're seriously shopping for a boat at the show, don't bring the kids. The sales people don't like 'em crawling all over the boat and it's impossible to focus. If you do bring the kids, have a battle plan. Don't let them run wild."

Another boater from St. Petersburg was blunt. "Children able to walk upright should be on leashes and those in strollers prohibited altogether. It need not be a day out for the family."

* Think on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to remove so you can climb aboard the exhibits. Plus, your feet will thank you at the end of the day.

* Be prepared. Bring snacks and water with you. Typical complaints are, "Refreshments costs can be unreasonable, especially in Florida when they charge you $2.50 for a 25 cents bottle of water" on top of a $15 entrance ticket and "I don't want the $5 beers and the $4 hotdogs."

* Mark your calendar. The National Marine Manufacturers Association's web site includes a calendar of boat shows here in the U.S. and around the world. Log on to BoatUS.com and click on the "Boating Info" menu.

BoatU.S. Consumer Tips for Boat Show Buying:

* Know before you go. Most builders' web sites offer model information so it's easy to compare designs and options before you get to the boat show. Print this information and bring it with you.

* Have a clear idea of how much money you can afford to spend on the boat and on yearly maintenance, insurance, storage, repairs and fees.

* Pre-qualify for a boat loan before shopping. You may get a lower interest rate and better terms.

* Buy show tickets in advance to take advantage of discounts. Watch for coupons in local boating publications and visit show web sites. Visit BoatUS.com for tickets, boat show information and general consumer advice.

* Take a day off. Plan your visit for a weekday when shows are less crowded. This makes it easier to inspect boats and to talk with manufacturers' reps.

* Make notes and take a digital camera to the show with you to refresh your memory later on.

* Protect yourself. Make purchase agreements contingent on a specific delivery date, inspection and sea trial.

* Just say no. Walk away from any deal that requires you to pay in full or begin making loan payments before the boat is delivered.