Is boat show season really the best time to buy a boat?

Why Boat Shows matter. So much more than just deals.

Boat shows are great for exploring the latest models and innovations in the boating industry, and they also serve as a major sales event for manufacturers and dealers. The allure of boat shows is strong: many people assume that they’ll find the best prices at these events, with added incentives like discounted packages, special financing options, and even exclusive offers that you wouldn’t get at any other time.

Boat Show deals: Will you get the best price there?

While boat shows offer much more than just discounts, the main draw for many buyers is the potential to land a great deal. Attending a boat show provides a unique opportunity to:

• Explore a wide range of new boat models in person.
• Compare boats side-by-side in terms of features, quality, and pricing.
• See live demonstrations or even test out some boats.
• Speak directly with manufacturers and dealers about technical details, warranties, and customization options.

For first-time buyers, boat shows are also an excellent educational resource, allowing you to get advice on maintenance, financing, and insurance from industry experts.

However, are the deals at boat shows truly better than those available at other times of the year? The answer is: it depends. Boat show deals can be advantageous, but it’s essential to have done your homework before diving in.

Incentives from manufacturers

Manufacturers often release new models in the early spring, making the late-winter and early-spring boat shows a prime opportunity to move last year’s inventory. During these shows, dealers may offer incentives that include rebates, free accessories, extended warranties, and attractive financing options to sweeten the deal. These promotions are aimed at encouraging buyers to commit during the event.

Dealer competition

Since boat shows feature multiple dealers vying for attention, the competition can drive down prices. It’s not uncommon to see dealers offer boat show-only discounts to move units quickly, especially as they attempt to hit sales targets. This competition can be a buyer’s best friend, as dealers may be more willing to negotiate on price to close a deal before the show ends.

Floor models and pre-rigged boats

Often, boats displayed at the show have all the bells and whistles—fully rigged with top-of-the-line options. While these showcase models can be priced higher, dealers are typically more flexible in discounting them as the show wraps up, especially on the last day. Buyers willing to take a boat that’s fully equipped (as opposed to customizing their order) may find significant savings.

Should you wait for Boat Show Season?

Timing is critical when it comes to boat buying, but there are some nuances to consider beyond just boat show season.

Off-Season Deals

Some experts argue that the best time to buy a boat is actually during the off-season—late fall into early winter. At this point, dealers may offer deep discounts on their remaining inventory to avoid holding onto boats through the slower winter months. For buyers who don’t mind purchasing a boat and waiting until the next boating season to use it, the off-season might yield better savings than even the boat shows.

End of month or quarter

Just like in the automotive industry, many boat dealers operate on sales targets that are evaluated monthly or quarterly. Toward the end of these periods, dealers may be more motivated to make a sale, and buyers could benefit from steeper discounts. If you can time your purchase for the end of a quarter, you may find that dealers are more flexible, regardless of whether it’s boat show season or not.

New vs. used: What’s the better deal?

Boat shows primarily focus on new boats, but that doesn’t mean used boats are out of the equation. In fact, many potential buyers start out looking for a used boat, only to be lured into purchasing new after attending a boat show.

Depreciation on new boats

One of the most common concerns raised by prospective buyers is the depreciation that occurs the moment a new boat leaves the dealer. Just like with cars, new boats lose a significant portion of their value as soon as they are driven off the lot. Some estimates suggest a depreciation rate of up to 20% in the first year. For this reason, many seasoned boaters recommend considering slightly used boats (1-2 years old) that still have warranty coverage but come at a reduced price.

Negotiating used boat prices

Used boat prices are typically more negotiable than new boats, especially when dealing with private sellers. Unlike dealerships, private sellers aren’t bound by manufacturer pricing and may be more motivated to sell quickly. However, buyers should be cautious about the condition of the boat and any hidden issues that may arise after purchase.

Financing and additional costs: What to expect

Financing a boat is a big decision, and the cost of a boat doesn’t stop at the sticker price. Boat ownership comes with several ongoing expenses that buyers need to be aware of.

Loan markups

Dealers often offer financing options at boat shows, but these loans may come with markups that benefit the dealer more than the buyer. While the convenience of dealership financing is tempting, it’s always a good idea to compare rates from your own bank or credit union before making a final decision.

Additional fees

Many boat buyers are surprised by the various fees tacked onto their purchase. These may include delivery fees, preparation fees, registration, and taxes. It’s important to ask for a full breakdown of these costs before agreeing to a final price. Preparation fees, in particular, are negotiable, and some dealerships have been known to waive or reduce them during boat show events.

Is a water test necessary?

One question that often comes up during boat buying—especially for new boats—is whether a water test is necessary. The answer is yes, even for brand-new boats. A water test ensures that the boat performs as expected and that there are no immediate issues. Some dealers may try to skip this step due to logistical challenges, but it’s important to push for a test if it is possible.

The importance of warranty

When purchasing a new boat, it’s important to understand what the warranty covers. Most new boats come with an engine warranty, but extended warranties that cover other parts of the boat are often sold separately. Buyers should be cautious about purchasing expensive, extended warranties unless they provide real peace of mind. Engine warranties, however, are generally considered a must, as repairs can be costly and unexpected breakdowns are common.

Comprehensive Q&A on boat buying and Boat Show deals

Are boat shows really the best time to buy a boat? Boat shows can offer significant discounts, special financing, and rebates from manufacturers and dealers. However, the best time to buy may vary depending on your location and the specific boat model you’re interested in. Off-season deals and end-of-quarter incentives can also provide great opportunities for savings.

Should I negotiate during boat shows? Absolutely. While boat show prices are often discounted, there’s still room for negotiation, especially on additional fees or extended warranties. The competition between dealers can work in your favor.

What’s the best time of year to buy a boat? The late fall and winter months can offer the best discounts, as dealers are motivated to move inventory before the slow season. However, if you’re set on buying a new model, boat shows in the early spring are your best bet.

Is it better to buy a new or used boat? New boats offer the latest features and technology, but they depreciate quickly. Used boats, particularly those 1-2 years old, can offer significant savings while still having warranty coverage. It ultimately depends on your budget and whether you value new technology over cost savings.

Do I need a water test for a new boat? Yes. Even new boats can have issues that only become apparent during a water test. It’s essential to test the boat in the water to ensure it’s functioning as expected and that you’re comfortable with its performance.

Can I finance a boat through the dealer? Yes, most dealers offer financing options, but it’s essential to compare rates. Dealer financing often comes with markups, so shopping around for the best loan rates can save you money in the long run.

Boat shows provide an exciting opportunity to explore the latest models, compare features, and potentially score great deals. However, they’re not the only time you can find discounts, and depending on your goals, it may be worth waiting for off-season sales or negotiating at the end of the month or quarter. Whether you’re buying new or used, doing your research, and understanding the full scope of boat ownership costs will help ensure you make the right decision for your boating lifestyle.

For additional strategies and a global perspective on the best time to buy a boat, refer to our comprehensive guide in The ultimate global guide to buying a boat: Best time and places for top deals. Unlike the boat show-specific focus of our current discussion, that guide covers a broader look at optimal purchasing times throughout the year. It also dives deeper into global market trends, offering strategies for securing the best deals outside of boat show season.