Recent News  

A Closer Look: Rinker Captiva 196 OB

February 22, 2012

Time To Gear Up Rinker Style?

February 22, 2012

Did you know there’s an online store that’s dedicated to making sure you’re decked out in the latest Rinker Boats 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 Rinker burgee flags, oversized beach towels and dock lines. Many items can even be custom embroidered with your choice of four different type styles. That’s perfect for personalizing items with the names of crew or even your boat name. 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.rinkergear.com and check out the great selection.

A Closer Look: Rinker 260 Express Cruiser

February 15, 2012

Captain Steve walks through the Rinker 260 Express Cruiser, giving us a closer look at this roomy, yet trailerable boat that has the perfect combination of performance and home-away-from-home luxuries. Note some of the clever design details that make the most of seating, storage and style!

As with all Rinker models, you will find that the Rinker 260 is designed for maximum value. This boat is absolutely packed with high-quality standard features, and it would be an excellent choice for anyone looking to move up to a cruiser from a large bowrider or cuddy.

Where In The World Is Rinker This Week? 2.16.12

February 15, 2012

Detroit Boat Show – Feb. 10-19 – Krupa’s Boat Mart & Hideaway Yachts

More than 100 of Michigan's best boat dealers and marine businesses will be 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

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!

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 — RC Congel

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 — Davey 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 — Shady Creek Sales

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!

Rockford Boat Show — Feb. 17-19 — Starved Rock Marina

After 40 years, the Rockford Boat, Vacation & Fishing Expo has become a tradition for Northern Illinois consumers looking for the perfect boat, vacation and fishing equipment.

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!

Hamilton Boat Show — Feb. 17-20 — Maple City Marine, Riverside Marina & Dundas Marine

Show goers will see hundreds of exhibits of new boats for sale and boating accessories and services at the Careport Centre  with three acres of show space. Take advantage of the exclusive show deals or if you are new to boating, start your research at the show - bring your questions for our boat dealers and product specialists.

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

Express Cruisers 101: How To Shop For Your First Weekender

February 14, 2012

If your boating experience has consisted only of day trips, you’re missing out on a whole new side of the boating lifestyle that extends your time with friends and family past sunset, entrances you with the peace and serenity of a quiet cove, and lets you enjoy the best night’s sleep you’ve gotten in years.

Is it time for you to step up to an Express Cruiser? Let’s take a look at some things you should consider before making that decision.

What is an Express Cruiser?

Generally, an Express Cruiser ranges in size from about 23 feet to 45 feet. It has a cabin with one or more sleeping areas called berths, a full toilet/shower enclosure called a head, and a food preparation area called a galley. The main difference between an Express Cruiser and a traditional Cabin Cruiser (other than the size range) is that there is generally an open area behind the helm with exterior seating and other amenities.

What type of boating can you do on an Express Cruiser?

One of the great things about the Express Cruiser design is that you’ll have a tremendous amount of versatility. Of course, they are built for comfort while you’re cruising and entertaining, but you can also enjoy watersports and fishing. The option of spending one or more nights aboard is one of the key factors that “seals the deal” for many buyers.

What’s the difference between an Express Cruiser and a Cuddy Cabin?

Where Express Cruisers are built with extensive comfort features to make longer trips more enjoyable, Cuddy Cabin boats (often shortened to “Cuddies”) are generally smaller and offer somewhat more basic accommodations. Cuddy berths, for instance, are often used for napping, storage or to get out of bad weather.

Can I trailer an Express Cruiser?

Absolutely! Smaller-sized Express Cruisers (under 30 feet) can often be trailered. There are a few things to consider, however. First, is your tow vehicle and hitch system rated for the full weight of the boat, trailer and fuel? Also, is the width of the boat or beam, under 9 feet? Remember that local regulations may vary, so check with your dealer on this question.

What are some of the features I should look for in an Express Cruiser?

Well, handy is in the eyes of the beholder, so why not pull a list of standard features first? Some brands try to stay at a competitive price point by offering a stripped-down model, while others like Rinker Express Cruisers are packed with high-quality extras. When you’re able to get to the point where you’re comparing apples to apples, that’s when the real value comes through. But since we’re talking about the advantages of overnighting or “weekending” on an Express Cruiser, why not single out standard features or options that will help you enjoy your extended stay even more? Items on that list would include a motorized windlass for easy raising and lowering of your anchor, a pressurized fresh water system (who wouldn’t like a nice power shower after a day on the lake?), a full-featured galley with plenty of space and upgraded appliances, and top-of-the-line berth mattresses and bedding.

Those are just some of the things to think about when considering an Express Cruiser for your boating lifestyle. Other great sources of information and inspiration include other owners and knowledgeable dealers.

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 Rinker This Week? 2.9.12

February 9, 2012

 St. Louis Boat, Sport & Travel Show – Feb. 8-12 – Mid Missouri Yachts

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 Rinker…please stop by and say hello.

Fort Wayne Boat Show & Sale – Feb. 9-13 – Pine Crest Marina

This will be our 31st Fort Wayne Boat Show and Sale. 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!

Montreal Boat & Water Sports Show – Feb. 9-13 – Marina Port Lewis & Drummondville Marine

The 13th edition of the Boat and Water Sports Show will be held as usual at Place Bonaventure in Montreal. The event organizers say the show will feature a variety of boats, marine accessories and services, and conferences. This event is the largest event of its kind in Quebec with over 400 models of boats, nearly 250 exhibitors and an estimated 30,000 visitors.

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!

Detroit Boat Show – Feb. 10-19 – Krupa’s Boat Mart & Hideaway Yachts

More than 100 of Michigan's best boat dealers and marine businesses will be 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.

Cedar Rapids Sportshow — Feb. 10-12 — Midwest Boat Sales

See a huge display of 2012 boats including sportboats, fishing boats, family runabouts, ski boats, pontoons, and performance boats.

New England Boat Show – Feb. 11-19 – Meredith Marina

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: Rinker Captiva 226 BR

February 7, 2012

Captain Steve walks through the Rinker Captiva 226 BR from bow to stern, giving us a closer look at this sportboat that's built for watersports with the R Series package. From the oversized, full-beam swim platform with cushioned "rumble" seat and integrated swim ladder to the huge sunpad and roomy bow seating area, the Rinker Captiva 226 BR is built for serious family fun!

Where In The World Is Rinker This Week?

February 3, 2012

Atlantic City Boat Show – Feb. 1-5 – Stone Harbor Marine

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!

Spokane National Boat Show – Jan. 28-Feb. 4 – Specialty Recreation & 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.

Tulsa Boat Sport & Travel Show – Jan. 30-Feb. 5 – Grand Lake Boat Sales

Check out the 2012 Tulsa Boat Sport & Travel Show!  See the latest boat and RV models and accessories. Door prizes will be given away every day of the show. Contests, family fun and the cast of the hit television show Swamp People! 

Did You Know That Rinker Is America’s Oldest Boat Brand?

February 1, 2012

As the oldest American boat brand in continuous production, the Rinker Boat Company has quite a story to tell. From our humble beginnings out of Lossie Rinker’s workshop on the White River in Indiana to today when we’re exporting boats to more than 40 countries, we build with pride, craftsmanship and the desire to be the best value in the industry.

At the request of many of our loyal customers and dealers across the country and around the globe, here’s a look back at some of the Rinker Boat Company milestones through the years. We are proud to remain true to our Midwestern heritage, and we are thankful for all of our Rinker owners throughout the years who have chosen to share some of their family’s most treasured memories with us. 

• In the 1930s, dairy farmer Lossie “L.E.” Rinker starts building fishing ­— and, later, racing boats —out of his workshop on the White River in Indiana. His sons, Jan and John, soon joined their father to build and race their own boats. After serving their country during the Korean War, the boys returned to Indiana to resume their boat-building careers, eventually founding the company Rinkerbuilt in Syracuse, Indiana. Rinkers are still built in Syracuse today.

• In 1945, the company’s first racing brand called Famous Craft is born.

• In 1958, Rinkerbuilt introduces fiberglass in the manufacturing process – long before most competitors — along with innovations such as multiple gelcoat colors and back-to-back seating.

 • A classic 1968 Rinkerbuilt brochure of the ROAMER 16. Also in 1968, Rinkerbuilt goes international, shipping 14 boats to Sweden.

• Throughout the 1970s, Rinkerbuilt rolls out new runabout designs. The signature 20-degree Deep-V runabout hulls grow to 20 feet.

• The most popular of all 1970-era designs is the 15- & 17-foot tri-hull. Every fiberglass manufacturer had a tri-hull, and Rinkerbuilt was one of the first! The boats were offered with both outboard and the new automotive-inspired inboard/outboard.

 • The 1980s bring a new name (“built” is dropped as the suffix), new logo, and new designs, as the now-40-year old company continues to grow. The first Rinker Fiesta Vee 255 Cruiser is introduced in 1988, which establishes Rinker as a cruiser builder.

 • Rinker turns 50 years old in 1995, and the Rinker Fiesta Vee line includes some of the most popular express cruisers in the world. The Rinker Captiva line is expanded and some models, such as the Captiva 232 and 236 become popular “go-fast” boats with big-block motors and exhilarating performance.

• Nautic Global Group becomes the parent company of Rinker in 2005, providing the capital, purchasing power and manufacturing efficiencies to take the company into the future. An entirely new generation of cruisers is introduced, and Rinker becomes the first sterndrive boat builder to offer a wake tower and watersports packages on its sportboats.

• In 2012, Rinker continues to roll out the next generation of Captiva Sportboats and Express Cruisers. Beginning with the Captiva 216 bowrider in 2011 and now with the incredible all-new Rinker 290 Express Cruiser, you see more innovative designs and a renewed focus on offering the unquestioned best-value and highest quality in the industry.

Throughout the years, Rinker has always had focused on performance, rugged construction, and giving you the best value on the water. Here’s to another 67 years of pursuing our dream of helping you enjoy the precious time you have with your family on the water. From our family to yours…thank you.

Spend It Wisely Sales Event Launched!

January 31, 2012

Rinker 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 Rinker Express Cruisers and Rinker Captiva Sportboats.
 
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 Rinker This Week?

January 27, 2012

Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show – Jan. 25-29 – Hern Marine

The 54th Annual Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show will feature 250,000 square feet of boats and 400 companies representing boats, marine services, travel destinations, and outdoors fun all indoors on one huge exhibit floor. This is the best time to buy, book, plan or as a last resort, just plain dream about.

Louisville Boat RV & Sportshow – Jan. 25-29 – Arnold’s Boats & Motors

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!

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. 27-28– 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.

Spokane National Boat Show – Jan. 28-Feb. 4 – Specialty Recreation & 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.

Tulsa Boat Sport & Travel Show – Jan. 30-Feb. 5 – Grand Lake Boat Sales

Check out the 2012 Tulsa Boat Sport & Travel Show!  See the latest boat and RV models and accessories. Door prizes will be given away every day of the show. Contests, family fun and the cast of the hit television show Swamp People! 

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.