Recent News
A Closer Look: Hurricane SunDeck Sport 232 OB
February 22, 2012
Make sure no one is left behind with the Hurricane SunDeck Sport 232 OB, which leads the pack with spacious interior, high-quality standard features and driveability that will surprise you. Captain Steve walks us through this versatile deck boat.
Time To "Gear Up" Hurricane Style?
February 22, 2012
Did you know that there’s an online store that’s dedicated to making sure you’re decked out in the latest Hurricane apparel and accessories? 
It’s fast and easy, and we’re adding new items to the spring collection every day for men, women and children. You’ll find everything from t-shirts and hats to jackets and koozies. 
There are even great boat gift ideas like Hurricane floating keychains, oversized beach towels and dock lines. And if you’re looking for a great deal, check out the clearance page where last-season’s awesome visor or polo shirt can be yours at a huge discount! To see what all the fuss is about, zip on over to www.hurricanemerchandise.com and check out the great selection.
A Closer Look: Hurricane FunDeck 196
February 15, 2012
Captain Steve walks through the versatile Hurricane FunDeck 196 outboard that combines the performance of a deck boat with the passenger comfort and st
orage of a pontoon boat.
In production since 1977, the FunDeck 196 has a wide-open floorplan that will appeal to anglers as well as family cruisers.
Where In The World Is Hurricane This Week? 2.16.12
February 15, 2012
Detroit Boat Show – Feb. 10-19 – Krupa’s Boat Mart & Hideaway Yachts
We’ll have more than 100 of Michigan's best boat dealers and marine businesses under one roof for nine days of great prices, selection and services. This is your chance to see new 2012 products, and get great prices on new non-current boats, motors, trailers and accessories.
New England Boat Show – Feb. 11-19 – Meredith Marina & Rockingham Boat
The New England Boat Show attracting thousands of visitors from the New England seaboard. The show fills 300,000 square feet with hundreds of the newest boats from the region’s top dealers, along with a wide selection of marine accessories and special features – creating a marine marketplace and boater’s paradise like no other!
Cedar Mall Boat Show — Feb. 14-19 — Zacho Sports Center
Grand Rapids Boat Show — Feb. 15-19 — Hall’s Sport Center
A West Michigan tradition! In our 67th year, the Grand Rapids Boat Show is launching into an era where we will be showing our broadest array of powerboats ever...especially for the Great Lakes!
Central New York Boat Show — Feb. 15-19 — Fremac Marine
The CNY Boat Show and Sale will showcase more than 500 all-new models of power and sail boats, including cruisers, sport boats, pontoon boats, and personal watercraft, along with a few luxury motor yachts on display.
Miami International Boat Show — Feb. 16-20 — Marine Connection, Naples Boat Mart & Unique Marine
See what’s new at the Greatest Boat Show in the World! Florida's largest annual event spans three locations—the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Yachting Center and Miamarina At Bayside—and features more than 3,000 boats and 2,000 exhibitors from all over the globe.
Kansas Boat, Sport & Travel Show — Feb. 16-19 — Mid Kansas Marine
For years, The Kansas Sports, Boat & Travel Show has been one of the most popular shows in the Heartland. Whether you enjoy the water, the adventure of riding an ATV, hunting, fishing, camping, or the freedom of traveling in an RV, you’ll love this year’s show!
Central Wisconsin Sports Show — Feb. 17-19 — Amherst Marine & Plowman’s Marine
NW Arkansas Boat Show — Feb. 17-19 — Ski & Sports
Carolina Powerboat Show & Sale — Feb. 17-19 — Chatlee Boat & Marine
Richmond Boat Show — Feb. 17-19 — Nautical Marine
For years the Richmond Boat Show has been recognized as one of the best boat shows in Central Virginia. Covering nearly 110,000 square feet in four buildings, it attracts dealers from throughout Virginia.
Indianapolis Boat Show — Feb. 17-26 — Ted’s Aqua Marine
Find your adventure at the Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show with over 650,000 square-feet of pure, outdoor goodness in six super-sized buildings. Acres of boats, RV’s, fishing tackle and hunting gear!
Ocean City Boat Show — Feb. 17-19 — North Bay Marina
The top indoor boat show on the Eastern shore with 350 boats from more than 50 dealers!
Arkansas Marine Expo — Feb. 20-22 — Trader Bill’s
South Beach in February? Miami Boat Show Time!
February 13, 2012
If it's the week of Valentine's Day, it must be time for the Miami International Boat Show! And while the who's who of the boating industry will converge on South Beach this week, we want you to know that the show's all about YOU. This is a great chance to stop by and say hello to Nautic Global Group team members. Some of the best ideas we get come from the folks who use our products every day.
So, if you're coming to the show, please come and see us. We'd love to be able to shake your hand and thank you in person for your support of Rinker Sportboats and Express Cruisers, Hurricane Deck Boats, and Godfrey Pontoons, including Sanpan, Aqua Patio and Sweetwater.
It's loyal fans like you who keep us striving to innovate and build boats that are the highest quality and offer the best value you'll find anywhere. Thank you, and we hope to see you on Miami Beach!
Where In The World Is Hurricane This Week? 2.9.12
February 9, 2012
Dallas Boat Show – Feb. 3-12 – Uncle Gus Lodge and Marina & Texas Hydro Sports
The 2012 Dallas International Boat Show is the “NEW” place for Texans to shop the most comprehensive selection of boats, as well as fishing, hunting, and outdoors equipment. There’s more than ever before... Don’t miss it!
Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show –Feb. 4-12 – Ducky’s Boats
Calling all outdoor sports enthusiasts! Welcome to the 2012 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, the largest event of its kind in North America! Join fellow outdoor sports buffs for up to nine days of testing the latest hunting and fishing products, planning outdoor sport and camping vacations, shopping for Boats, RVs, SUVs and ATVs, meet your favorite outdoor celebrities, and much more!
St. Louis Boat, Sport & Travel Show – Feb. 8-12 – St. Charles Boat & Motor
Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or are just looking for a way to escape winter for the day, this is YOUR show! The annual five-day event turns America’s Center & Edward Jones Dome into a one-stop marketplace for outdoor fun— the best place to see and buy everything you need for your outdoor adventures! See nearly one thousand boats—from fishing to cruising to family fun there are boats for every activity, lifestyle and budget.
Columbus Sport, Vacation & Boat Show – Feb. 9-12 – Buckeye Lake Marina
The one-and-only Twiggy the Water Skiing Squirrel will make her Columbus debut at the show. For more than 30 years, trainer Lou Ann Best and the Florida gray squirrel have traveled around the globe to teach people about boating safety. Twiggy will perform in her own heated pool multiple times each day.
Treasure Valley Boat Show – Feb. 9-12 – Allan Marsh RV & Boat Center
Attention western Idaho…your boat show is coming to Expo Idaho in Ada County this week! Allan Marsh RV & Boat Center has YOUR Hurricane…please stop by and say hello.
Kentucky Sport, Boat & Recreation Show – Feb. 9-12 – C & P Marine & Arnolds Boats & Motors
All the top boat dealers in the area…PLUS the chance to ride a free zip line across Rupp Arena? Count us in!
Columbia Boat Show – Feb. 9-12 – Captains Choice Marine
This year’s show will feature 12 area boat dealers and over 40 additional exhibitors.
As in years past, wall-to-wall boats and marine accessories will pack the State Fairgrounds. Hundreds of boats, from a wide variety of manufacturers will be on site. The show will feature deck boats, runabouts, sport boats, fishing boats, cruisers, personal watercraft, jet boats, and high-performance boats—everything from 12 to 30 feet will be ready to board and buy!
Mid-Atlantic Boat Show — Feb. 9-12 — Huntley Marine
The largest marine product event in the Carolinas celebrates 2012 by showcasing more boats and marine services than ever! For 40 years the Mid-Atlantic Boat Show has been the place to get your family ready for the boating season that's just around the corner.
Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale – Feb. 9-13 – Hamilton Lake Marine & West Lakes Boat Mart
You’re invited to the 31st Fort Wayne Boat Show and Sale, where you’ll find over 50 exhibitors, including 20 marine dealers from Indiana and Michigan, all in one place. Incredible prices, low financing and special incentives on boats, personal watercraft, accessories, piers and much more!
Mid Atlantic Sports & Boat Show – Feb. 10-12 – Centerville Waterway & Lynnhaven Marina
Whether you want to see the latest and greatest 2012 models or want a great deal on an unused 2011, you don't want to miss the boat show with all the big dealers and all the boats under one roof. Don't miss it.
Grand Strand Boat Show – Feb. 10-12 – Marine Service Center
This year marks the 28th year for the Grand Strand Boat Show! This show has always been the best place to preview the new boating season, and now we will have anything and everything to interest the outdoor enthusiast!
Biloxi Boat & RV Show – Feb. 10-12 – Ocean Marine & Rough Water Marine
This year promises to be another great year for boating and RVing along the Gulf Coast. The show will feature a great selection of 2012 model of boats, motors, personal watercraft, RVs, campers and marine and RV accessories.
Detroit Boat Show – Feb. 10-19 – Krupa’s Boat Mart & Hideaway Yachts
We’ll have more than 100 of Michigan's best boat dealers and marine businesses under one roof for nine days of great prices, selection and services. This is your chance to see new 2012 products, and get great prices on new non-current boats, motors, trailers and accessories.
New England Boat Show – Feb. 11-19 – Meredith Marina & Rockingham Boat
The New England Boat Show attracting thousands of visitors from the New England seaboard. The show fills 300,000 square feet with hundreds of the newest boats from the region’s top dealers, along with a wide selection of marine accessories and special features – creating a marine marketplace and boater’s paradise like no other!
Sterndrives Versus Jet Boats: What's The Right Choice For Your Family?
February 8, 2012
You may have seen some of the new jet-drive boats that have come into the boating marketplace in the past few years. They are kind of like an overgrown personal watercraft (PWC), and they can be fun to drive. But are they the right fit for you and your family? Let’s compare jet-drive boats to traditional sterndrive propulsion. The answers may surprise you.
Steering
This is probably the most important factor to consider when comparing a jet boat to a sterndrive. If you’ve ever ridden a PWC, then you may remember that you didn’t have total control at all speeds. Jet drives lose the ability to steer when you back off the throttle. Of course that’s most noticeable when you are heading toward a hazard and the natural inclination is to slow down. Just like with a PWC, you have to remember to “power out” or apply more throttle to make a sharp turn. While that may be part of the fun on a 10-foot PWC, a 21-footer with a boat full of friends and family is another story. Sterndrives, on the other hand, allow you to steer with confidence at all speeds.
Noise
You never hear anyone complaining about the quiet, efficient operation of a sterndrive. Everyone on board is able to have a conversation at just about any speed. And that adds to the enjoyment of the day. Jet boats, however, can be up to three times louder under normal conditions. Again, think about the PWCs zipping around your lake and the amount of noise they can generate compared to traditional boats.
Ride Quality
This really isn’t much of a contest. Simply put, the traditional Deep-V hull shape of a sterndrive is made to cut through choppy water. It’s a more comfortable ride, and it’s much easier to handle. Jet boats are okay when the conditions are flat-glass perfect, but how often does that happen? When the going gets rough out on the water, so does the ride of a jet boat.
Shallow Water
The familiar and dependable operation of a sterndrive is perfect for “skinny” water. The outdrive is easy to trim up in shallow conditions and you still have excellent control and thrust. Jet drives are a different story. Because the boat’s propulsion relies on pulling in water and shooting it back out, it’s very common to suck up all kinds of debris into the intake. Rocks, sand, weeds and other foreign matter can put you out of commission in a hurry, stranding you out on the water, and possibly causing expensive damage.
Tow Sports
One of the great joys out on the water is the fun of board sports such as wakeboarding. But those sports depend on a crisp well-defined wake behind the boat for the best results. Jet drives, though, tend to produce a small wake that’s full of “wash” and not that great for launching out of the water for more complex maneuvers. The sharp wakes created by a sterndrive boat, however, are perfect for even the most advanced tricks.
Durability
Sterndrives have been around for many years and their durability and reliability is well known. Since the current selection of jet boats has really only been around for a short time, the jury’s still out on how they will hold up over time. One thing to consider, however, is that jet systems are constantly pulling in raw water for propulsion. That’s more water contact with the internal systems, which could lead to corrosion problems down the line. And if there’s one thing you don’t want to have to deal with, it’s the prospect of solving rust issues inside your engine.
Speed
Here’s one area where sterndrives and jet drives are pretty evenly matched. A 21-foot jet boat with two four-stroke engines (two x 200 horsepower) will top out at about 50 mph, while a 21-foot sterndrive with a V6 220 horsepower will be nearly the same speed at roughly 48 mph.
No matter what you’ve heard, the fact is that jet drives just come up short when compared to the dependable, safe, proven performance of a sterndrive.
A Closer Look: Hurricane SunDeck 2400 I/O
February 7, 2012
Captain Steve walks through the Hurricane SunDeck 2400 I/O from bow to stern, giving us a closer look at this luxurious deck boat. A true blend of beautiful form and practical ease of operation, the Hurricane SunDeck 2400 IO is the perfect boat for playing hard and resting easy.
Congrats to New Jersey Outboards!
February 4, 2012
Not only did our friends at New Jersey Outboards win the 2012 Marketing Partner of the Year Award from the Atlantic City Boat Show, but they are actually giving away (you heard it right), a new Sweetwater 2086 with a 40-horsepower Yamaha Outboard at the show this weekend. WOW!
So, you have to ask yourself the old Dirty Harry question...are you feeling lucky? Good luck to everyone heading to the show this weekend from South New Jersey, Philadelphia and all throughout the area!
If you still haven't made it over to the Atlantic City Convention Center, the show is open 10am to 5pm Sunday.
Where In The World Is Hurricane This Week?
February 3, 2012
New Orleans Boat Show – Feb. 2-4 – Metro Boating
The entire Mercedes-Benz Superdome floor will transform into the region’s largest boat show this weekend, featuring the best deals on all the equipment you need to maximize your time on the water! And you don’t have to run all over to get the best prices!
Atlantic City Boat Show – Feb. 1-5 – New Jersey Outboards
See what’s new, NOW! Find the boat of your dreams and everything to go with it—see and shop hundreds of new boats and an unbeatable assortment of marine gear at the Atlantic City Convention Center. From luxury motor and sailing yachts to sport fishers, performance boats, and personal watercraft, there are boats for every lifestyle, activity and budget.
Rochester Boat Show – Feb. 2-5 – Ballantyne RV & Marine
Most people don’t realize just how affordable owning a boat really is. For instance, the average boat payment ranges between $8 and $10 dollars per $1,000. That means a $20,000 boat loan would normally cost less than $200 per month! No matter how you try…you'll likely never take your family vacation for a week in Orlando for as little as $2,400 — much less bring along your friends and relatives!
Dallas Boat Show – Feb. 3-12 – Uncle Gus Lodge and Marina & Texas Hydro Sports
The 2012 Dallas International Boat Show is the “NEW” place for Texans to shop the most comprehensive selection of boats, as well as fishing, hunting, and outdoors equipment. There’s more than ever before... Don’t miss it!
Raleigh Convention Center Boat Show – Feb. 3-5 – Park Boat Company
The Raleigh Convention Center Boat Show is this weekend! Come see a wide variety boats and boating gear, represented by the best local marine dealers. Discount coupons available online.
Knoxville Boat Show – Feb. 3-6 – Madisonville Marine
This is not just an Expo to see boats and other products, it’s the best place to BUY those boats and products. Held annually at the Knoxville Expo Center on Clinton Highway THE Boat Show is easily accessible and has plenty of well-lit FREE parking.
Spokane National Boat Show – Jan. 28-Feb. 4 – Mark’s Marine
We have really had a lot of changes in the Boat show for this year. This year will again be an eight-day show from Saturday Jan. 28th through February 4. With the closing of the Northwest game fishing show downtown we are very lucky to have quite a few of the fishing guides and seminars coming to join us at the Spokane Boat Show. There will be seminars almost every hour of the eight days of the show.
Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show –Feb. 4-12 – Ducky’s Boats
Calling all outdoor sports enthusiasts! Welcome to the 2012 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, the largest event of its kind in North America! Join fellow outdoor sports buffs for up to nine days of testing the latest hunting and fishing products, planning outdoor sport and camping vacations, shopping for Boats, RVs, SUVs and ATVs, meet your favorite outdoor celebrities, and much more!
Versatile Deck Boats Are A Do-Everything Value For Boating Families
February 2, 2012
The popularity of deck boats is really taking off these days, and for good reason. These versatile boats come in a wide variety of styles and layouts, which means it’s easy to find one that will be a perfect, no matter how you spend your time on the water.
The first step, of course, is to think about how you and your family will use the boat. Today’s deck boats, such as the industry-leading Hurricane brand, are built for all kinds of activities. Watersports, of course, are always among the favorite ways families use their boats, especially tubing, wakeboarding and waterskiing. For most families, a ski-tow bar at the rear of the boat will be plenty for towing. Some models, though, take it one step further and add a tower or arch for even more excitement. If it’s fish you’re after, consider a deck boat that features amenities especially designed for anglers. These can include pedestal seats that swivel, bait wells and even handy rod storage.
Next, consider how many people you’ll likely be bringing along. The great thing about deck boats is that they are made to bring along a crowd, with plenty of seating and storage space for everything you’ll need for a day on the water. The reason for all that extra room is that deck boat designs bring the beam (width) of the boat all the way to the bow instead of coming to a sharp point like most runabouts. That gives you more seating, and more seating gives you more storage options.
The bottom line is that deck boats are built to handle just about any activity you (and lots of friends and family) may want to try. The hull design means you’ll get on plane quickly, and the stable, wide platform is a perfect choice for families. When you add it all up, you’ll see why deck boats are quickly becoming the best value on the water.
Spend It Wisely Sales Event Launched!
January 31, 2012
Hurricane Deck Boats has once again rolled out the popular Spend It Wisely Sales Event! The winter boat show promotion, which is now in its fourth model year, offers buyers a clear, predetermined discount on nearly every boat in the lineup.
Just click on the image to the right to choose the model or models you're interested in. The promotion, which will run through April 1, 2012, covers SunDeck, SunDeck Sport and FunDeck.
Promotional discounts of up to $3,500 vary depending on the brand and model. Once you find the boat you want, just submit a request, and you'll instantly receive an email with the exact discount amount for that particular boat, along with other package information such as engine model, trailer or additional options.
“Buying a boat should be a fun and exciting experience,” said Nautic Global Group Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doug Sexton. “The concept is simple and easy to understand for everyone involved. Once you narrow down the boat you want, you get a no-haggle dollar amount you can then apply to the purchase of a new boat. There are no complicated percentage discounts or rebate plans that can make your head spin.”
Where In The World Is Hurricane This Week?
January 27, 2012
Milwaukee Boat Show – Jan. 20-29 – Lauderdale Lakes Marina & Summerset Marine
This is Wisconsin's largest boating exposition with over 300 boats from over 75 manufacturers - motor yachts, runabouts, aluminum boats, pro style fishing rigs, pontoon boats, cruisers...you name it!
Louisville Boat RV & Sportshow – Jan. 25-29 – Arnold’s Boats & Motors & Fentress Marine
Celebrating its 54th year as the mid-South’s premier outdoors show, this annual 5-day event turns the Kentucky Exposition Center into a one-stop marketplace for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you love boating, fishing, hunting, camping or RVing, there’s no better place to shop, compare and save!
Pittsburgh Boat Show – Jan. 26-29 – Pittsburgh Boat Sales & Indian Lake Marina
The Pittsburgh Boat Show turns 52 this year! Come celebrate at the Monroeville Convention Center with a wide variety of boat lines represented by the best local marine dealers.
Upstate South Carolina Boat Show – Jan. 26-29 – Captain Dave’s Boating World
The year’s show will host the latest models of boats including: fishing, pontoon, speed, ski, cruisers, and personal watercraft. Additionally, you’ll find boating accessories and everything that you need to start the season off right!
Oklahoma City Boat Show – Jan. 26-29 – H&H Marine
The longest-running boat show in Oklahoma history returns to Oklahoma State Fair Park for the 57th year with hundreds of boats and watercraft, special show pricing and factory representatives.
San Antonio Boat & RV Show – Jan. 26-29 – Lake LBJ Marineland
We are gearing up for another year filled with something for everyone. From travel trailers and fifth wheels, truck campers to bay boats, center console fishing boats, and world-class wakeboard boats, the 2012 show is a must-see.
Charleston Boat Show – Jan. 27-29 – Seel’s Outboard
The biggest boat show and sale in the Lowcountry returns to the Charleston Area Convention Center, with hundreds of boats from the areas top retailers on display. Now in its 32nd year, the Charleston Boat Show is the place to find the latest and best in marine equipment, supplies and accessories.
East Texas Outdoor Expo – Jan. 27-29 – Shipps Marine
The East Texas Outdoor Expo provides the perfect venue for families from across Texas to have a one-stop shopping experience for their outdoor recreational needs. Nearly 10,000 attendees are expected over the weekend.
Fargo Boat Show – Jan. 27-29 – McLaughlins Boat & RV
The Fargo Boat and Marine Product Show includes the latest models of deck boats, fishing boats, pontoons, runabouts, and personal watercraft. See the newest innovations in marine electronics and accessories GPS, Docks, Trailers, Riggings and so much more!
Hartford Boat Show – Jan. 27-29 – Echo Bay Marina
The Fargo Boat and Marine Product Show includes the latest models of deck boats, fishing boats, pontoons, runabouts, and personal watercraft. See the newest innovations in marine electronics and accessories GPS, Docks, Trailers, Riggings and so much more!
Knoxville Boat Show – Jan. 27-30 – Madisonville Marine
This is not just an Expo to see boats and other products, it’s the best place to BUY those boats and products. Held annually at the Knoxville Expo Center on Clinton Highway THE Boat Show is easily accessible and has plenty of well-lit FREE parking.
Spokane National Boat Show – Jan. 28-Feb. 4 – Mark’s Marine
We have really had a lot of changes in the Boat show for this year. This year will again be an eight-day show from Saturday Jan. 28th through February 4. With the closing of the Northwest game fishing show downtown we are very lucky to have quite a few of the fishing guides and seminars coming to join us at the Spokane Boat Show. There will be seminars almost every hour of the eight days of the show.
Shop With Confidence With These 5 (Not So) Secret Boat Show Tips
November 22, 2011
If you’re in the market for a new boat, the boat show can be a great place to work a deal. Of course, it can also be a dizzying and confusing experience if you’re not prepared. The good news is that with a little research and some easy planning, you can head through the front door with confidence.
1) Start early. That’s all part of the fun, isn’t it? The anticipation. The build-up. The excitement. Make that a key part of your experience. The more time you spend thinking about how you’ll use your boat, the more time you spend comparing features, and the more time you arm yourself with research, the more confident and focused you will be on the boat show floor.
2) Ask around. To say that boaters like to talk about their boat is the understatement of all time. If you got into boating, like most people, through family or friends, start there. Ask about the amenities they use on their boat and the ones they could live without. You’ll find all kinds of information about gas mileage, top speed and other “specs.” Once you get past all that, however, it comes down to how happy other folks seem with their purchase.
3) Make a list. It can be something as simple as a sticky note or as detailed as a notebook. You’ll soon discover that list is getting pretty long. Enclosed head, swim platform, space for a cooler, full galley, oversized sunpad, top-of the-line stereo, etc. Now, once you have your list together, start organizing into “must-haves,” “would-be-nice,” and “don’t really need.” This will help you really wind up happy with your boat, rather than jumping at a “good deal” in the heat of the moment.
4) Go ahead and climb aboard. You’d be surprised at how many folks are too intimidated to really give a boat a thorough inspection at a boat show. You should feel welcome to spend some time acquainting yourself with the boat you’re about to buy. Sit in all the seats, not just the helm. Is the backrest at a comfortable angle? Open the cabinet doors. Do they open and close securely. Does the boat feel solid?
5) Remember there are no dumb questions. Repeat, there are no dumb questions. If you’ve gone through these first four steps and you’re still confused about something, just ask! The dealership has an entire team of people at the show. A reputable dealer will want you to be just as confident about your purchase as you walk out the door as you were when you walked in.
How To Find The Right Boat Dealer For You
November 20, 2011
While there are some similarities between a car dealership and a boat dealership, you may be surprised at how much they don’t have in common.
Sure, they both have showrooms, shiny new vehicles and salespeople. But with few exceptions, a car purchase comes down to function and price. And even if you wind up getting your automobile serviced at the dealership, it tends to be a fairly anonymous event. Buying a boat, however, could easily be characterized as starting a relationship. And because of that, it’s worth putting a little time into finding the “right one.”
Here are some pointers for narrowing down your choices and settling down with a boat dealer who will be by your side for the long haul.
• Do you feel comfortable? If you’re feeling pressured or stressed or tense in the showroom or at the boat show booth, you may want to keep looking. Anxious excitement is part of the boat-buying experience and should be enjoyed. Those other things, well, who needs them?
• Do their customers rave about them? Good dealers would love for you to meet and talk to their customers. Nobody does a better job of selling a dealership than satisfied customers. Remember, this is a relationship that will last for years. Longtime customers are a sure sign that the dealership appreciates their patronage and support.
• Do they have a busy service department? This one may seem a little counter-intuitive because you want to be first in line. But think about it. Who has more experience solving common issues? Who has a well-staffed, well-trained crew? Who can offer great rates because they are doing volume business? More than likely it’s the busy service bay.
• Do they host events on the water or showroom? Many times a dealer will gather customers of a certain brand for an afternoon of socializing with other owners. Sometimes there’s a parking lot cookout with face-painting for the kids. Other times, they turn their showroom into a movie theater in the middle of winter. There is just something wonderful about mingling with others that share your love for the water.
The point is that your boat-owning experience can be and should be just as exciting, fun and rewarding as your boat-buying experience. Good boat dealers get that. More importantly, good boat dealers go out of their way to make sure that you get that!
Top 3 Things To Remember At The Boat Show
October 21, 2011
All throughout the spring, summer and fall months, most of us are out on the water. If the weather’s nice, we’re boating. Every weekend, for sure, and maybe even a quite a few “personal” days when the opportunity arises. But when the weather gets colder, our thoughts turn from boating to boat shows.
Whether you’re looking for your first boat or you’re in the market to upgrade, winter boat shows help us keep the fire burning until our glorious spring launch finally rolls around. In addition to the fun atmosphere, gleaming gel coat and new gadgets you just can’t live without, there’s something else that should be drawing you right through the front door. The deals!
Think about it. Since the boating season is over in most parts of the country, and boats have been serviced and stored during the fall, your local dealer will be wheeling and dealing with all kinds of special offers and manufacturers’ incentives. If you’re looking for a boat, you owe it to yourself to attend a boat show.
To help you navigate the aisles like a pro, here are the Top 3 things to think about as the boat show rolls through your community:
1) Do your homework and narrow down your search before you get there. It adds to the experience if you walk in with a good idea about the type of boat that best fits your lifestyle. Do you need seating and storage for lots of family and friends? Are you more into performance and styling? Do your kids spend most of their time tubing, skiing or wakeboarding? Will you spend a lot of time on big water? Have you always dreamed of anchoring and overnighting in a serene cove? There will be lots of terrific distractions…be prepared!
2) Get to know your dealer. Nearly as important as the type of boat you buy is the feeling you get from your dealer. They will be instrumental in helping you get a great deal. They will be delivering your boat. They will be there for routine service, storage and anything else you need after your purchase. Talk to the salesperson at the booth. Ask to speak to the owner of the dealership. Chances are, they are one of your neighbors. A good dealer knows that your relationship begins with the sale, not ends with the sale.
3) Shop for value, not just price. This is a simple idea, but it’s harder than it sounds. Cheaper does not mean value. There are price wars at just about every boat show between competing lines. Ask about quality construction. Ask about resale value. Ask about financing offers. The cream rises to the top, as they say. You will pat yourself on the back a year or two (or 10) down the line when you make quality a priority over price alone.