Boat Shows... do you love them, or hate them? We personally love getting back into the boating mood, It's bloody cold out....and shoveling has to end soon, right?
Thinking about heading out to the Ottawa Boat Show February 22-25, 2018 the EY Centre? If so here are 6 quick tips that may make it more enjoyable for you! Actually, these tips really work for almost any trade show you may attend:
1.GO WHEN IT'S QUIET.
The first day (Thursday in Ottawa) is often the quietest. This gives you better access to boats, less crowds, better parking, etc. It also allows you time to come back later in the week if you want to go home and "think things over". You can also save some time by buying your tickets ahead of time here.
2. Dress the part.
3. Don't rely on your memory alone.
YOU WILL NOT REMEMBER EVERYTHING! Take a note book and your camera (phone or otherwise). It is hard to keep all the models, features, and ideas straight. You will recieve a lot of information, and if you're willing to give out your email most exhibitors will contact you to follow up.
4. Research ahead of time.
Spending time doing a bit of research a head of time will benefit you greatly. It will give you a better idea of the brands and models you want to see and the questions you want to ask. This can be very intimidating for first time buyers, but remember- there are no dumb questions!! Everyone has to start somewhere.
If you're already a boat owner, maybe you have a trade(or a boat to sell), think about what it might be worth, or get a trade evaluation ahead of time.
5. What's the rush?
If you plan to get in and out in an hour...you may want to think - why bother? It is a good size show, and if you want to have a good look around and have some decent conversation, give yourself 3 hours there minimum. You may want to bring a water bottle to keep hydrated too.
6. Hit the early worm, or play it cool and wait till the end.
If you are serious about the best deal possible, you may find some dealers are slightly more flexible in the afternoon on the last day. If you know exactly what you want, you could try the first morning also. Every dealer and salesperson will be pumped about the first, and last sale of the show.
Boat Shows are one of the best resources for a new boats, or used boat buyer. Want the full Boat Show Buyer's Guide? Download it here!
Most of all, have fun at the show. Boating is AMAZING, and we are there to celebrate that with you. When you come to the Ottawa Boat Show, we are excited to see you....really. Yes, we want to help you buy a boat if you are ready...because believe that their will be a huge payoff in quality of life. We love boating, and want you to enjoy it as much as we do.
Did you snag your tickets yet? Use discount code- LENSCOVE when purchasing your tickets to get a $3.00 discount!
