With modern technology shaping everything we do, it’s hard to know what the world will look like 20, 10, or even 5 years from now. One thing we know for sure is Boat Shows are here to stay. The show itself may evolve and change but this is one event that will be around for generations to come.

Boats, like many other possessions, are an extension of our own personality. Just like the clothes you wear or the music you listen to, your boat says a lot about who you are. Whether your are going exploring, are a serious fisherman, or are looking to have fun and relax, there’s a custom fit boat to match you perfectly. If you don’t already own a boat and have just begun shopping, you will soon discover a sea of options and add-ons that can be fitted to any make or model. When taking into account the hundreds of manufacturers and their subsequent models, picking the perfect boat is almost impossible.

In time it will definitely become easier to visualize and simulate this customization virtually; however, replicating to the digital space of how we buy boats in reality will not be easy. Unlike car shows, boat shows aren’t as much about showcasing new technology as much as they are about physical comparison. Yes, the Miami Boat show is where manufactures love to debut the latest and greatest boat tech, but it’s only one of the hundreds of shows every year. There’s most likely just been or is coming soon, a boat show near you.

A serious boat shopper wouldn’t pass up the chance to give a hard look at two, three, or ten competitor boats side by side. The Boat Show gives you and your short memory the opportunity to, knock on the side of a boat and hear if “boat A” really does have a stronger hull than “boat B”, or if “boat C” has a leaning post seat more comfortable than “boat D”. Some of us are lucky enough to have a show with boats in the water to test and get a great feel for how each boat would ride in the same condition seas. Is it worth more paying for that extra horsepower or is it just over kill? (Don’t forget about re-sale value.) Sometimes it’s hard to understand why a similar boat is thousands more than one that looks identical but there’s almost always a valid reason. In a world flooded with information it’s this real life experimentation that shines a light on the perfect boat for you.

Boat shows are also a great way to spend a Saturday enjoying good weather, family, and friends. Most have activities for all ages, free swag, and an exciting main event. Whether it’s a skiing squirrel, or bikini contest, it will be the perfect amount of time to mull over your short list of boats before making your final decision. And don’t forget the best part of all…Boat Show Specials. Special pricing is not just a myth or a thing of the past. Exhibitors pay significant costs to participate in a show and want to see a return in sales. These lowered prices could be compared to Memorial Days sales for cars or a similar push for end of the month sales. It’s the perfect time nab savings and put it toward a nice GPS or some new poles!