Tips To Save Time And Money At Your Next Boat Show

When you're interested in buying a boat, boat shows are one of the best ways to try on many different shapes and sizes of boats. From sport boats to deck boats to cruisers and fishing boats. Boat shows also provide a great time to mingle with the boating community and hear firsthand how boating is a wonderful way to spend your free time. With all this excitement, a boat show can feel a bit overwhelming. To help you save time and money, follow these tips.

Do Your Homework


Boat shows are a great way to begin the boat buying process. But with all the different styles and sizes to choose from, it's hard to make a decision if you haven't already narrowed down your choices. Before attending our boat show, visit our website and start looking at the brands and models (Pursuit, Scout and Chaparral Boats) offered by Pier 33. While browsing, think about what you'll use your boat for and how many people you'll take out at a time. That way, when you visit us at the boat show, you'll be able to spend more time on the boat that fits.

Come Prepared


When you come to the boat show, you should bring a few things with you.

1. Questions - bring all your questions. Pier 33 will have an expert team on hand to help you understand everything there is to know about the boating lifestyle and the different boats. There are no silly questions. All boaters start somewhere and our staff will help you gain the knowledge you need.
2. A Notebook and A Camera-Phone - you may want to take notes about and/or compare different boat models, sizes, how many people can fit or how much fuel the boat can hold. Having a notebook will come in handy and you can use the camera phone or digital camera for extra help to remind yourself what you liked best about each boat.
3. Printed Address Labels - if you plan to visit multiple dealers during the show, bring pre-printed address labels that have your name and contact information. Many vendors ask for this information and having an address label ready to peel and stick will save you lots of time.
4. Your full boating crew. Family, kids, friends who will be boating with you can be an important source of feedback about what fits best and you may learn about some key features that will help make everyone's day on the water more enjoyable.

Climb Aboard


You'd be surprised at how many people are too nervous to climb aboard and check out the boat that caught their eye. Go ahead, climb aboard! We're here for you and want you to feel comfortable spending some time on the boats that fit what you're looking for. Have a seat at the helm, open doors and check for storage room or take a peek at the head (the restroom). Spend as long as you like and always feel welcome to stop back for a second, third or fourth look as you make your comparisons throughout the show.



Want to know more? Don't be shy. Pier 33's friendly staff will be right there when you need us to answer any question or show you the features that may surprise you. There's no obligation or pressure to make a show purchase, although there will be some outstanding show incentives if you choose to take advantage of them.

Are you ready for the 2012 Progressive Insurance Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show next weekend? We sure are!