Newport Boat Show

Oct 1, 2007
1,858
Boston Whaler Super Sport Pt. Judith
Well, we went over last Friday and had no problem finding a parking space right opposite the main gate. The broker who sold us Maxine new always takes care of our tickets so we were in the show right around opening at 1000. First impression was that there were at least 3X more power boats than sail boats, and one dealer rep told us that they are "selling the hell out of power boats", meaning they were selling. Hunter was not represented with any boats at all. Catalina had a couple, but Jeanneau had a huge number of boats, maybe 10, catamarans and monohulls. Big investment in the show. Island Packet had a boat or two, same for Tartan. It was interesting that except for Jeanneau, the brand boats were owners' boats, rather than dealers' boats, indicating that dealers are not investing in the "floor plan". The show was uncrowded on Friday but who knows about the weekend. Clear to me that whatever generation is now buying boats are going to power in large numbers.
 
Jul 1, 2004
398
Catalina 30 Atlanta GA
Fuel prices have come down and people want to MOVE....RUSH.....HURRY........what better on a motorized vessel. Anyways, a novice must learn to sail. Afterall, who has time these days for that?! Sad indeed. But good for the manufacturers and dealers.

Bob
a sailor for over 50 years and ....in no hurry _/)