2010 Miami International Boat Show Puts Affordability Front and Center to Attract Entry-Level Buyers
Feature area highlights boats that account for 95 percent of boats on the water today
Think boating isn’t affordable? Think again. While consumers continue to watch their budgets and prioritize discretionary income, more than a 100,000 boaters and potential boat buyers will be looking for deals and financing options to purchase a boat at the 2010 Miami International Boat Show. As a result, the show intends on attracting these buyers with the Affordability Pavilion – a special area on the show floor featuring several boats, from runabouts to fishing boats, all which can be financed for $250 or less per month.
While recreational boating in the U.S. is perceived to be an activity for the affluent, the vast majority of boaters are middleclass participants. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s 2008 Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, approximately 75 percent of boat owners have a household income under $100,000, and an estimated 95 percent of boats on the water today are trailerable boats that are 26 feet or less.
“As many boaters can attest, a boat is more than a financial investment – it’s an invaluable way to connect with loved ones, and one that can be achieved on most budgets,” noted Cathy Rick-Joule, VP of NMMA southern shows. “As we pull out of the recession, we want to make sure people know that buying a boat is still within reach. In addition to the Pavilion, attendees will be able to find some of the best deals we’ve seen in years on boats and accessories throughout the show.”
In addition to the Affordability Pavilion, the 2010 Miami International Boat Show will showcase thousands of boats and marine accessories at unprecedented deals. Even through the credit crunch, financing is still available and consumers can find exclusive show specials, rebates and extras such as free upgrades and services throughout the show. Other attractions include the new Guy Harvey Artist Pavilion; an evening with Chris Fischer, host of National Geographic’s Expedition Great White; Miss GEICO, the world’s fastest racing boat; Big Game Room; and more.
Show details:
When: Thursday, February 11, through Monday, February 15, 2010
Thursday, Feb. 11 (Premier Thursday): 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, Feb.12-Sunday, Feb.14: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Monday, Feb.15: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
Where: Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center
NEW FOR 2010 – Now home to Strictly Sail Miami in addition to the Miami International Boat Show’s in-water display.
1635 North Bayshore Drive, Miami
Admission: Premier Day (Feb. 11): $30
Adults: $16
Two-day adult pass (valid Feb. 12-14): $30
New! Five-day adult pass (valid Feb. 11-15): $75 – a $19 savings!
Youth (ages 13-15): $6.00
Children under 12 get in FREE
Tickets include a one-year magazine subscription to one of the following: Yachting, Motorboating, Salt Water Sportsman, Islands or Cruising World ($10.00 value)
Advance tickets can be purchased at MiamiBoatShow.com or StrictlySail.com beginning
December 1, 2009.
Parking: FREE South Beach shuttle-bus service connects show locations with more than
15,000 parking spaces.
Park and Ride service is available from the America Airlines Arena with continuous service to both show sites. The daily rate is $10.
Valet parking is available on a first come, first served basis at the Miami Beach Convention Center for $15 per day. The valet drop-off is located on Washington Ave at the Fillmore Theater entrance.
Info: Call (954) 441-3220 or visit www.MiamiBoatShow.com or www.StrictlySailMiami.com.