| Bargain-hunters shopping for a boat or boating | | | | * Do your homework. Visit for pictures and |
| accessories can find some of the best deals of the | | | | descriptions of more than 30 types of boats to help |
| season by attending a boat show this winter. | | | | narrow choices to one or two categories based on |
| With a variety of products under one roof, boat | | | | your interests and requirements. |
| shows provide an opportunity to compare different | | | | * Map your course. Find dealers that sell the brands |
| types of boats and negotiate with dealers. | | | | and boat types identified during your pre-show |
| "Boat shows offer one-stop shopping that saves | | | | research. While at the show, get as many opinions |
| time and money," said Ben Wold, executive vice | | | | and options as possible. |
| president for the National Marine Manufacturers | | | | * Choose the right dealer. Select the dealer that goes |
| Association (NMMA). "Shows help you find exactly | | | | the extra mile by offering the best deal and ensuring |
| what you're looking for at a discounted price." | | | | he will be with you after the sale. Ask a dealer's |
| With boats for every lifestyle and budget, shopping | | | | finance manager about handling the entire transaction |
| can be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. | | | | for you, from assisting with the application to the |
| NMMA offers the following tips for those attending a | | | | loan closing and vessel titling. |
| boat show: | | | | * Take a test drive. Depending on the boat show |
| * Determine what, where and who. What do you | | | | and time of year, some dealers offer testdrives to |
| want to do with your boat: fishing, waterskiing or | | | | experience how the boat feels on water. Test-driving |
| cruising? Where will you be boating: lake, river or | | | | several boat types and sizes will help you make the |
| ocean? Who will be joining you? | | | | best choice. |