Boat shows are a great way to move on step closer in the boat buying journey. They are one of the best venues to sample many different boats, and the best way to determine if you are getting a good deal at a boat show is to do your homework ahead of time. Pre “research” the brands and dealers now so that you come in with the upper hand. You are looking for the right boat, and the right dealer. The pricing will be the best of the year at the show….that will take care of itself! Try not to get wooed by an “amazing price” for the wrong boat, at a dealer that may not be the “right fit” for you. A great dealer is easy to recognize as they ask questions, listen, and try to learn more about you. They will also be concerned firstly about advising you to make good decisions with the information you already have and need. If they move right away to price….move on!
Go Early, stay late, avoid Saturdays if you can. The majority of the time, the people who you would benefit from talking to the most are significantly less busy during the week (and early and late in the day). At the Ottawa Boat Show, Thursday all day and Sunday afternoons are the best times for relaxed shopping. If you can get off work a little early do so and go straight to the show. If you come the weekend, it can get
really busy and those people whom you should chat with have their hands full at every moment. Think comfort also….wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off, and wear as light of a coat as you can get away with.
The most important question: “Which boat is best for you, your family, and yourfriends” Any Boat Show requires an open mind, so ask a ton of questions, and don’t be afraid to follow a good salesman/dealer’s “path to discovery”. The questions they ask can sometimes seem personal, and there is a good reason…they should be! A boat is not a commodity, it is an extension of your family and poor decisions lead to dissatisfaction. Watch the videos and try to find people to talk with who are into the things you will be. Avoid dealers, staff, sales staff who do not boat! There are lots of them on the boat show floor who “fill in for the show”.
So much information, so many boats. Okay, so we understand that this can be a little bit overwhelming at first. If you’d like some help from an unbiased expert visit the Discover Boating Centre and/or the Boating Ontario Dealers booth. They can help you decide or finalize what type of boat will best suit your needs! Want the inside scoop on which dealers are best? You can ask industry insiders like insurance brokers, boat license retailers, and other service providers who may be less biased. When interviewing a dealer, ask questions like: “Are you 5 Star NMMA Certified?”, “Do you have an on the water facility?”, “Are you a member of the “Boating Ontario Dealers”, “Do you keep the same technicians hired all year round?”, “How long have you been in business?”, “Can I meet the owner?” You will learn a lot by being nosy!
Want more information and a great FREE resource? Download our latest e-book here! The Ultimate Boat Show Buyer’s Guide.