Get started with powerboating with NauticEd’s FREE online Navigation Rules for Powerboats, or become a competent powerboater with the Skipper Large Powerboat Course – a comprehensive online powerboating course for beginner to intermediate powerboaters wanting to learn how to operate larger powerboats greater than 26ft. Or upgrade to the Bareboat Charter Master for Powerboats Bundle of online courses to also master multiday and near-coastal powerboating as well as charter powerboats on vacations.
Buying a Boat at a Boat Show: What to Know Before You Sign
Thinking about buying a boat at a boat show? Here’s the real scoop—no fluff, just straight talk from people who’ve done it, some who sell them, and a few who’ve learned the hard way.
Don’t Fall for the “Deal” Until You Do Your Homework
Boat shows feel like the place to get a deal. And sometimes they are. But unless you’ve researched prices ahead of time, you won’t know if it’s a true discount or just attractive financing with some flashy signage. Build the same boat online through the manufacturer’s website and compare. Many of the ones on display are decked out with all the bells and whistles—and priced accordingly. You’ll probably save money by building your own and waiting a bit.
Boat Show Prices: Good, Not Always Great
Yes, there are incentives at boat shows. Dealers often get help from manufacturers—waived freight charges, better warranty terms, things like that. But don’t assume you have to buy right now. That “limited time offer” you’re hearing? It’s likely still around in a few weeks. These shows are pressure-cookers. Walk away. If it’s still calling to you after the weekend, then go back and negotiate.
Also—these aren’t Honda Civics. If it’s a desirable boat with limited inventory, they’re not giving it away. If they are, ask yourself why. Could be missing options. Could be an unpopular trim level. Could be something better exists in that size and price range. Be curious.
New vs. Lightly Used
If you’re a young family or not sure how often you’ll use it—buy a 2–4 year old boat with low hours. Let someone else eat the depreciation. Boats drop 40–50% in the first few years. That’s tens of thousands in savings. Makes it easier to forgive the dock rash, the spilled drinks, or the inevitable moment someone swings a hook into the cushions.
That said, if you know what you want, have the cash, and value warranty coverage, a new boat has its place. Especially if it comes with a slip or mooring you wouldn’t otherwise get (which happens more than you’d think).
Service, Financing, and Fine Print
Always water test. New or not, boats break—sometimes right out of the gate.
Meet the service department. These are the people who will make your life easier… or miserable. Be polite. Be memorable. Squeaky wheels don’t always get greased. Sometimes they get ignored.
Financing: This is a whole game. The finance manager is marking up your rate. That’s how they get paid. Doesn’t mean they’re ripping you off—it’s just business. You might get a better rate through your bank, but know that dealerships wantto do the financing, so it gives you leverage on the boat price. If you’ve got the cash, you can finance short-term, get the discount, and pay it off early.
Fees: Don’t sweat the admin fee—it’s usually around $1K and part of doing business. But any “service fee” before the sale? Hard pass. If it’s on their lot, it should be ready to go.
Warranties and Real Talk
Forget every warranty except the engine. That’s the one that matters. The rest sound great, but you’ll end up arguing with a service rep and waiting months for an answer. If it helps your peace of mind, go for a 1–2 year extended engine warranty.
Final Thought
Buying a boat at a show can be awesome. There’s Veuve, a “SOLD” sign, and a serious adrenaline rush. But once the champagne buzz wears off, you’ve still got a boat to pay for, maintain, and repair. If it’s a boat you’ll use every weekend, love deeply, and take care of—go for it. But don’t let the event dictate the purchase. Take your time, test it, run the numbers, and know your why.
Because remember—boats aren’t investments. They’re just really expensive ways to make memories.
Get started with powerboating with NauticEd’s FREE online Navigation Rules for Powerboats, or become a competent powerboater with the Skipper Large Powerboat Course – a comprehensive online powerboating course for beginner to intermediate powerboaters wanting to learn how to operate larger powerboats greater than 26ft. Or upgrade to the Bareboat Charter Master for Powerboats Bundle of online courses to also master multiday and near-coastal powerboating as well as charter powerboats on vacations.
