Preparing for Boat Show Season

Later this week, we'll be at the Nashville Boat & Sport Show for the first time as a representative of Carver and Marquis Yachts. We are so excited! But it's reminded us that anyone who comes to a boat show should prepare ahead of time so they can make the most of their experience. We'll be at several different shows this year, and each one is different. So here are our tips on preparing for boat shows generally, and the inside scoop on four we're attending.

For any boat show
1. Take notes. Obvious? Maybe. But realize you probably won't be able to remember all of the boat and pricing information you get at a show after you leave. So write down everything you think you might need to know later as soon as you learn it. If you take notes on your phone, great, but if not, make sure you bring that pen and paper!

2. Plan a strategy. If you just plan to meander around the show, go for it. We like a relaxed boat show goer! But if there are particular dealers or vendors you want to see, we recommend you do a little research before you go. You don't want to get to the show and not be able to find your favorite dealer! (Hint hint.) So check out maps and/or booth layouts ahead of time. In addition, if there are specific features or demos you want to see, look at the show schedule ahead of time to plan accordingly.

3. Bring supplies. Bring a camera to take pictures, because boat brochures may only show "flattering" pictures. They also might leave out features you feel are important. We also recommend you bring return address labels so you don't have to spend a lot of time writing your contact information down for a variety of vendors.

Now for specific boat showsNashville Boat & Sport ShowJanuary 10-13
Tickets: you can purchase tickets online ahead of time. There is no cost benefit to doing this, but your online ticket purchase does include a 1-year subscription to Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, Yachting, Parenting or Popular Science magazine ($7 value). Also, you won't have to stand in line.
Map: A layout of the show is available online, and a mobile guidebook is available too. A list of seminars is also available to help you plan.
What We'll Have: Carver and Marquis Yachts
Bonus: On the website homepage, you can sign up for show news and updates. This could be a great way to get insider hints and discounts before the show!

The Boat Show - HuntsvilleJanuary 18-20
Tickets: $9 at the door - sorry, online purchasing not available.
What We'll Have: Regal boats and Crest Pontoons
Map: Also not available online. Their website is pretty bare, but keep checking for potential updates.

West Kentucky Boat & Outdoor Show
January 25-27
Tickets: Admission is free!
Map: The show layout is provided. Check back on the website for listings of which exhibitor will be in which area.
What We'll Have: Cobalt boats
Bonus: The kid's fishing pond will be available again this year! This is a great show for the whole family.

Mid-South Sports, Boat and RV Show
February 15-17
Tickets: $7 for adults, $3 for youth ages 7-14 and free for kids 6 and under. No ticket purchasing available online.
Map: You can see a list of exhibitors, but no map is provided online. A list of seminars is also available.
What We'll Have: all of our brands!
Bonus: The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is offering a boating safety class at the show on Saturday, Feb. 18 in the Banquet Room. Pre-registration is required. The class will begin at 8 a.m. and is expected to conclude by 1 p.m. The class is free; however, participants born after January 1, 1989 must have a Type 600 Exam Permit which costs $10 and can be purchased wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold. Those who successfully complete the course will earn their boating education certification and be able to attend the show free of charge.To register, call 615-781-6682 or email Debbie.powell@tn.gov.