Boat shows are popular venues the length and breadth of Indiana. Boaters enjoy going to them to see what's new and perhaps to speculate what their next water craft might be. Want-to-be boaters line up for tickets to see what's available and to fuel their dreams of owning a boat. More than a few non-boaters go just to see the glitter, the glamour and for an insight into a lifestyle they otherwise would never glimpse.
Types of Shows
There are several types of boat shows across the state. Some are relatively small, not much more than an independent dealer decorating his showroom with a bit of bunting, putting on an advertising blitz and attracting visitors to see the newest models he's carrying. Other shows are put on by clubs or organizations as fund raisers. They rent a building or two at a fairgrounds or other venue, then charge dealers for display space and sell tickets at the door. A few cities sponsor boat shows in city-owned facilities and there are several shows around the state put on by professional show promoters as a business venture.
Timing
More shows are held in late winter or early spring than any other time of the year. This is when boaters are thinking ahead to warm weather and in the mood to shop for new boats. A few shows, such as the Michigan City In-Water Boat Show are held in the summer so the boats on display can actually be shown in the water and test drives are available.
Deals
Boat dealers often have factory-sponsored pricing on new boats and outboard motors available at boat shows which can't be offered at other times of the year. If you are in the market for a new boat, attending a boat show can allow you the best bargain available. It's also a great opportunity to comparison shop by giving the chance to see competing brands and models, almost side-by-side.
Other Attractions
Many boat shows are only a portion of a larger outdoor oriented venue. The Indianapolis Boat, Sport and Travel Show is one of the largest outdoor oriented shows in the nation. Besides boats, it has hundreds of exhibitors representing fishing tackle retailers, recreational vehicles, resorts, travel destinations as well as fishing and hunting guides.
Attending Tips
Boat shows are most crowded on weekends with the midday and early afternoon being the peak attendance period. If you are attending a show for the specific purpose of buying a boat or visiting with a specific vendor, your best bet of getting the individual attention you want is to go during one of the off-peak hours.
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