The Boating Industry Navigates Through Stormy Waters

One of the boating world's telltale indicators of the industry's health have traditionally been the attendance trends at boat shows. The stats have varied somewhat, with attendance being reported from from flat to 15% or more down from previous shows. With 300 to 400 credible boat shows of all types and sizes in the U.S.A., the boat show market has become over saturated. In May 2009, the National Marine Manufacturer's Association announced cancellations of three boat shows from its 23 boat show roster. Those getting cut were San Diego Boat Show, the Schaumberg (Ill.) Boat & Sports Show, and the Virginia In-Water Boat Expo & Sailfest. Further pruning is likely to come while some boat shows will broaden their focus to keep attendance figures from slipping.

Read More