As a lifelong sailor, and one who makes it a habit to attend as many boat shows on the West Coast as possible, I can impart a few words of wisdom of what to expect and how to get most out of your attendance. If you are a newbie or want to get into the boating lifestyle, then this review of the boat show scene will come in handy. And for those long-time sailors who love attending just because they love to be around boats and just want to see what’s out there this year and network with the masses, great, enjoy the show and the festivities.

In addition to showing vessels, a boat show will offer visitors services and “stuff” for boats and about boats under one roof. Bigger vessels are shown at the marina organized by dealer and manufacturer. It can be a bit intimidating and confusing unless one knows how a boat show is organized.

From the industry’s viewpoint, boat shows are about getting the new boater hooked on the lifestyle and enticing experienced boaters to upgrade into bigger vessels. The show promoters typically want to attract the largest audience that falls into these categories. Usually boat shows, which are primarily for consumers, are not free – the cost is in the $10 to $15 range. Having to pay something for the ticket tends to filter out the “just lookers” and casual visitors compared to those who are more passionate about boats. You can usually save a few dollars by pre-purchasing the tickets. It all occurs under one roof and in one marina where they tout their latest equipment and vessels. The exhibitor pays for the space at the show whether in the hall or at the marina berth.
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When:  Thursday, April 12, 2012
Time:  4:45 PM
Location:  Strictly Sail Pacific Boat Show, Oakland, Calif.
Speaker:  Steve Szirom
Company/Sponsor:   Oyster Yachting    

Details: Choosing the right sailboat for a cruising lifestyle depends on many factors, such as, budget, sailing region, length of cruise, and others. Today's economy presents both challenges and opportunities for boaters seeking to purchase cruising sailboat. The presentation will cover the strategy for planning the search, selecting sources for research, viewing the prospective vessels, working with brokers or owners, approaches to valuation in today's market, offers/contingencies, and cruising budget expectations.

The seminar is free to all attendees with boat show tickets.  I will present some money saving tips and ideas for buying your dream boat in a buyer's market.  Avoiding pitfalls is key to a successful boat purchase.

Strictly Pacific is West Coast's largest sailboat-only boat show which will be held Jack London Square, Oakland, Calif. from April 12-15, 2012.  For full details of the show and seminars, visit the Strictly Sail Pacific website,

Missed the seminar?  View it here.

Some of my thoughts about Strictly Sail Pacific 2012 at the boat show gallery.