Here are Some of the Best Boat Shows to Visit in 2024
Attending a boat show can be a thrilling experience for avid boaters and water enthusiasts alike, especially when those colder winter months finally approach.
Whether these events are massive, international exhibitions (like the Miami International Boat Show) or smaller, local gatherings, each provides a variety of benefits for all attendees.
Of course, the main draw to these boat shows always lies in the massive display of boats of all shapes, sizes, and sterns, which gives everyone the opportunity to check out the latest models, shop for accessories, and chat with fellow watercraft enthusiasts.
Another perk to attending a boat show is the chance to see what types of boats fall within your budget and find new ways to stretch your money a little further. Of course, that means it’s important to really think through your budget beforehand so you can stick to it during the show without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, a lot of times boat dealerships and manufacturers will offer exclusive deals and incentives during these events, which makes it the perfect time to try to negotiate prices and explore new financing options.
Even if you’re not in the market right now to purchase a new boat, these events are the perfect opportunity to ask questions to boat experts from all around the world and gather information about what it is you’re looking for exactly. It’s also a great opportunity to make new friends who share similar interests, and potentially plan to meet up on your next transient adventure!
If you’re looking to head to your first — or fiftieth — boat show, here are some of the best ones around to add to your calendar in 2024.
→ Morningstar Marinas Pro Tip: Not sure what questions to ask at the show? No worries — we’ve created a comprehensive guide to help you make sure you get all the answers you need.
Miami International Boat Show
February 14 – 18, 2024
Considered one of the largest boat and yacht shows in the world, the Miami International Boat Show has everything from kayaks to superyachts, all in one place. Plus, there are both a variety of on-land and in-water elements to enjoy! Learn more.
New Jersey Boat Sale & Expo
February 15 – 18, 2024
Located at the Raritan Center in Edison, New Jersey, the New Jersey Boat Sale & Expo is produced by the Marine Trades Association of New Jersey, a non-profit trade organization comprised of more than 300 different marine-related businesses that are dedicated to promoting, protecting, and advancing the state’s recreational marine industry and waterways. Learn more.
Indianapolis Boat, Sport, & Travel Show
February 16 – 18 & 21 – 25, 2024
Plan your next adventure when you visit the Indianapolis Boat, Sport, and Travel Show, with over 750,000 square feet of the great outdoors, easily accessible indoors for these dates only! Learn more.
Atlantic City Boat Show
February 28 – March 3, 2024
This one-stop shop for boats, accessories, and on-the-water adventures has a little something for everyone. Bring the whole family to explore the hundreds of watercraft options available and try out the interactive boating exhibits at the Atlantic City Boat Show this winter! Learn more.
Bonita Springs Boat Show
February 29 – March 3, 2024
Visit beautiful Southwest Florida to find the perfect boat for your budget from the area’s major dealers and enjoy the sunshine while you’re exploring the 35th Annual Bonita Springs Boat Show. Learn more.
Northwest Sport Show
March 14 – 17, 2024
Explore the Midwest’s best boating show at the Northwest Sport Show in the Minneapolis Convention Center and check out hundreds of boats and entertaining attractions on display for the whole family. Learn more.
Novi Boat Show
March 14 – 17, 2024
Located right outside the city of Detroit, the Novi Boat Show has a 25-year history of showcasing many of the best boats, motors, accessories, and watersport equipment to more than 11,000 people every year. Learn more.
Palm Beach International Boat Show
March 21 – 24, 2024
Watch West Palm Beach come alive at the Palm Beach International Boat Show when people from all across the globe come to explore the latest in boating, yachting, and marine technology. Learn more.
Suncoast Boat Show
April 19 – 21, 2024
Explore 65,000+ square feet of dock space featuring everything from power boats and motor yachts to center consoles and sportfishers — and so much more at the Suncoast Boat Show. Learn more.
Catawba Island Boat Show
April 26 – 28, 2024
Whether you need a boat, want a boat, or are just planning ahead for one day when you have a boat, the Catawba Island Boat Show is a great opportunity to see all the perks of the boat life! Learn more.
Metro Boat Show
September 12 – 15, 2024
This in-water boat show is located at the St. Clair Metropark, featuring new and used boats both in the water and on-land. Learn more.
Newport International Boat Show
September 14 – 17, 2024
As one of the largest and most prestigious boat shows in the United States, the Newport International Boat Show spreads across thirteen acres of Rhode Island. Learn more.
Norwalk Boat Show
September 19 – 22, 2024
Enjoy a free powerboat ride, try your hand at paddle sports, or participate in an on-water boating class when you visit the Norwalk Boat Show in Connecticut. Learn more.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
October 30 – November 3, 2024
Who doesn’t need an excuse to visit sunny Florida in the fall and winter months? The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is a great opportunity to experience the latest and greatest marine exhibits and watercraft in-person. Learn more.
Morningstar Marinas Can Answer Your Storage Questions
At Morningstar Marinas, we pride ourselves on the community of boaters we’ve welcomed into our family across the Southeast’s top boating destinations. Our facilities and services paired with our friendly and knowledgeable team members will help you get things carefully stored, winterized, and returned to full service come springtime, so you never have to miss out on the fun! Morningstar Marinas is more than just a place to store your boat — we’re here for you all year long.