Last weekend’s Orlando Boat Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Florida saw a surge in attendees — up 66 percent from 2019, according to the Marine Industry Association of Central Florida. The 2020 show was canceled due to the pandemic.
Exhibitors displayed nearly 500 boats from more than 70 manufacturers, from pontoons and deckboats to center consoles, flats boats and surf models.
Show organizers followed strict Covid-19 guidelines, including mandatory masks, enforced social distancing, limited capacity, and cleaning and disinfecting measures.
Many builders saw brisk sales by offering show-only incentives, such as extended warranties, service packages, waived dockage, and enhanced electronics and accessory packages.
“Participating dealers reported that boat sales exceeded all projections,” MIACF executive director David Ray said in a statement. “We remain committed to raising the professionalism of the boating industry in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.”
Glenn Adams of Boat Max USA added: “This was the best show we’ve ever had. We expected smaller attendance as our first show in more than a year in an indoor exhibit space, yet this was not the case this past weekend. What an amazing show.”
