The 2025 boat show season is here! With a mix of interest rates starting to come down, and boat prices starting to cool off, 2025 could be a great year to get that new boat! Local shows are the best opportunity for seasoned enthusiasts and first-time buyers alike to compare models, talk to industry experts, and score great deals. If you’re planning to buy a boat at one of these shows, there are a few things to keep in mind; especially when it comes to insurance. Our 2025 Boat Show Guide is here to arm you with the tools you need for making that new purchase!
First-Timer’s Guide to Attending a Boat Show
Attending your first boat show? Here are a few tips to make the most of the experience:
Do Your Homework: Research boat models that fit your needs and budget before attending. Have a clear idea of what you’re looking for—whether it’s a fishing boat or a family boat like a pontoon or wake boat.
Make a List of Questions: Ask about warranties, maintenance requirements, and available financing options. Don’t be afraid to ask dealers for specifics about their boats. If you are in need of a finance option, we recommend checking out Apex Yacht Finance!
Take Notes: With so many boats on display, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Jot down details about the boats you love to help you compare later.
Prepare for the Purchase: If you’re serious about buying, know the next steps. This includes understanding storage needs, transportation logistics, and your boat insurance!
Don’t Forget About Insurance
Boat insurance often gets overlooked in the excitement of purchasing a new boat. However, it’s a critical part of protecting your investment. Here are some key considerations:
- Is Boat Insurance Required? Most states don’t mandate boat insurance. However, it’s often required if you’re financing the boat or storing it at a marina. Marinas frequently ask to be listed as an additional insured on the policy, a concept that’s new to many first-time buyers.
- What does boat insurance typically cost? We spent some covering that in one of our other blog posts, you can check that out for more information. But while many factors can impact the rate including your prior boat ownership and where you plan to use the boat, a good starting point is around 1% of the hull value.
- Why Choose Marine-Specific Insurance? While bundling with your homeowners’ insurance might seem convenient, it usually offers limited coverage. Marine-specific carriers provide benefits like agreed value policies (which cover the full insured value of the boat), fuel spill coverage, and access to dedicated marine claims teams who understand boating risks.
Did You Know Shopping for Insurance Early Can Save You Money?
If you’re attending a boat show with the intention of buying a boat, start thinking about insurance now. Here’s why:
- Advance Quote Discounts: Many insurance carriers offer discounts for shopping early. Even if you haven’t finalized your purchase, getting a quote for the boat you’re considering can lock in savings.
- Streamlined Process: Shopping early means you’re prepared to hit the water as soon as you make your purchase. This is especially helpful for first-time buyers navigating the insurance process for the first time.
- Expert Guidance: My agency specializes in helping boat owners find the best coverage at competitive rates. By starting early, you’ll have plenty of time to review options and select the policy that’s right for you.
What Will You Need to Get an Insurance Quote?
Shopping for boat insurance is incredibly easy. Using our Get a Quote page, you can enter some basic details about yourself and the boat you’re looking to buy. With that information, we can recommend the best insurance company for your needs.
In some cases, we can access insurance companies you wouldn’t otherwise be able to get an online quote from. This means we can help you explore options that may not be directly available to you, ensuring you get the best coverage and price for your new boat.
Where You Can Find Us in 2025
Throughout 2025, we’ll be attending several boat shows across the midwest. While some shows we will be walking around talking to people, some shows we will have a dedicated booth. This is a great opportunity to meet in person, ask questions, and start your insurance quote. Here’s where we’ll be
- Ohio Boat & RV Show Columbus, Ohio – January 10-19, 2025
- Cleveland Boat Show Cleveland, Ohio – January 16-19, 2025
- Cincinnati Boat Expo Sharonville, Ohio – February 8-16, 2025 (will have a booth onsite)
- Catawba Island Boat Show Catawba Island, Ohio – April 25-27, 2025 (will have a booth onsite)
We will be visiting other shows and fishing expos across the midwest. If see someone walking around with a shirt that says Boat Insurance Guy, thats me! Make sure to say hi!
The 2025 boat show season is set to be a great time whether you’re upgrading or buying your first boat. If you’re planning to make a purchase, reach out to me to get started on your insurance sooner for the best savings!
Let’s make sure you’re protected and I’ll see you on the water!
Written by Eric Fisher
Boat Insurance Guy and Agency President of On The Water Marine Insurance.
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