It’s cold outside, but being Michiganders, many of us dream of warm rays and fun on the lakes. Not to mention, Michigan’s rebounding economy bodes well for the marine industry. The Detroit Boat Show, happening February 14-22 in the Cobo Center, is set to be the largest one the city has seen in recent years. At 350,000 square feet, the 2015 show will be 50,000 square feet larger than in 2014 and 150,000 square feet larger than in 2012.
The boat show is riding the wave of increased boat, motor, trailer, and accessories sales in Michigan. At the show, visitors can expect to find boats for skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing in addition to kayaks, paddleboards, paddle boats, and inflatables. There will also be new product launches, tow toys, ski and wakeboarding equipment, and canvas shops.
Overall, the show is expected to host hundreds of boats and 150 of Michigan’s finest marine businesses in one place.
“Boat shows remain the single most important selling tool for dealers. 57% of those who buy a boat attend a boat show for a number of obvious reasons. It would take someone weeks to see as much product on their own. We are also seeing more manufacturer involvement, which means more manufacturer exhibits and a sexier show.” – Show Manager Nicki Polan
In addition to boats and accessories, the Detroit Boat Show offers special features to give visitors a break from the cold weather. Kid Rock’s Cowboy boat featured in his “All Summer Long” music video will be at the show, as will Water-rollerz, Kid’s Boat Building Center, and Meet a Mermaid. Finally, the live wakeboarding show Rail Jam will make another appearance.
More than 68,000 visitors are expected to see the show and purchase new boats. Parking for the event will be available at the Cobo Center and surrounding lots.
Admission to the show is $12 per adult. Children 12 and under are free with an adult. If you purchase your tickets in advance at DetroitBoatShow.net, you can save $2 per ticket.
The boat show has several special admission days, including:
- Monday, February 16: Senior Day – seniors 65 and older receive free admission
- Tuesday, February 17: Ladies Day – Ladies get in free & Muscular Dystrophy Awareness.
- Wednesday, February 18: A Boat Load of Food – Free admission with 5 cans of food for Gleaners Food Bank between 3 & 6 p.m.
- Thursday, February 19: Half price tickets – get your tickets for only $6 between 3 & 6 p.m.
