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Get More Boat For Your Buck
It may seem counterintuitive that the best time to buy a new boat is in the cold of winter, but it is, especially at the hundreds of boats shows across the country.
For consumers, boat shows present a great opportunity to comparison shop because boat manufacturers are well represented. There are few other opportunities for boaters that are more convenient, informative, and offer special incentives that add to your savings. Best of all, many manufacturers offer special boat show incentives that add to your savings.
Here are some tips on how to make the most of your boat show experience:
1) Take time to plan your visit to the show. Make a list of items you're researching, and then try to determine ahead of time the booths and displays you want to see. Pick up a free program at the door and identify which booths you'd like to visit. This will save time, and walking.
2) Don't be afraid to "ask the experts." Take advantage of the participation of local dealerships to ask questions and get free advice. In general, vendors aim to be cordial and helpful and can be a wealth of knowledge about products and user tips.
3) If you come to shop, do your homework. Pre-qualify for a boat loan before shopping or have a clear idea of how much money you can afford to spend on the boat and on yearly maintenance, insurance, and fees. If you are ready to buy a watercraft or boat, take some time before you get to the show to consider those things that you want most from your boating experience.
4) Buy show tickets in advance to take advantage of discounts. Web sites such as familyfunonthewater.com provide discounted tickets for many shows, boat show information and general consumer advice
5) Seek Out Value. Many boats and personal watercraft today are featuring a new type of cleaner, quieter and easier to operate engine, called a four-stroke engine. For 2005, Yamaha has introduced a new affordably-priced WaveRunner called the VX110, which features all the benefits of a four-stroke engine, but at a fraction of the average four-stroke cost. For less than $70 a month, you and your family could be on the water enjoying the benefits of the latest technology- at a price the competitors can't touch.
6) Be good to your feet. Wear comfortable walking or athletic shows that are easy to remove so you can climb aboard the exhibits. This is no time to make a fashion statement, and you want to be comfortable enough to explore the boats and large exhibition halls.
7) Take a day off. Plan your visit for a weekday when shows are less crowded. This makes it easier to inspect boats and to talk with manufacturers' reps.
8) Consider Reliability. This should be a top priority on every buyer's list. There is nothing more frustrating than owning a watercraft or boat that spends more time in the repair bay than on the water. Look for manufacturers with solid reputations for service and reliability.
9) Passenger Comfort is Key. When it comes to boating, size does matter. Three-person watercraft are the most popular models today because they are larger and more comfortable, whereas for boats, 7- to 10-person boats are the most popular for families because they offer more room for passengers and storage. Climb aboard models you are considering to see if they are the perfect fit.
10) Take into Account Fuel Economy. The better the fuel economy and cruising range of your boat, the less time and money you spend refueling at the local marina. Four-stroke watercraft are inherently more fuel efficient than older models and are easy to maintain and operate. |