Frequently Asked Questions

General

Where is the show located?

The show is presented in the marina basin at the prestigious Catawba Island Club, located on the northwest tip of the Catawba Island peninsula in Port Clinton, Ohio.

What are the driving directions?

From Ohio Rt. 2, take Ohio Rt. 53 north onto the Catawba Peninsula. The official address is: 2920 NW Catawba Rd.

Where do we park?

As you approach the show, you will see easy-to-follow signs guiding you to the designated boat show parking lots. All parking
and shuttles are free to attendees. For a parking map and additional information, please click here.

Will there be any pre-owned boats?

Yes, a limited number of late-model pre-owned boats will be included in the show this year. These are expected to be primarily cruisers and all will be displayed in-water.

Are demonstration rides permitted?

Yes. One of the advantages of this show is that all the boats displayed in-water can be demonstrated and perform sea trials to qualified.

How do I purchase tickets?

Ticket bundles, VIP tickets and discount general admission tickets are now available for purchase online here.
General admission tickets will also be sold at the boat show entrance. Kids 6 and under are free.

Will tickets be sold at the show entrance?

Yes, general admission tickets will be available for purchase at the boat show entrance. Kids 6 and under are
free.

Buying a Boat

How do today’s boat prices compare?

Most people compare purchasing a boat to buying a car because that’s familiar. Yes, the process is very similar. And today, there are dozens of boat models that can be purchased for a monthly payment under $299. By comparison, that’s below the typical auto payment.

What about financing the boat?

With today’s record low interest rates, there’s never been a more attractive time to finance your boat purchase. In addition, for a hassle-free experience, every dealer can handle the entire process for you. Of course, you can always apply directly to your bank but most people simply work through their boat dealer.

Can I qualify for a boat loan?

Basically, if you qualify for a car loan, you’ll likely qualify for a boat loan. Lenders usually take the same factors into account: Credit rating, Debt to income ratio, Job and homeownership stability, and Net worth. It’s not complicated.

How much down-payment is required?

Typically, the down-payments required these days can range anywhere from no-money-down to 20-percent. It really depends on the lender, the buyer’s credit history, loan amount and similar considerations.

How about today’s terms?

Boat loans are actually preferred loans by many lenders. In fact, depending on the total loan amount, most will offer longer terms of up to 10 years or more so buyers can set a monthly payment that fits their budget. It’s a win-win.

Why can you get longer terms on a boat purchase?

Unlike autos, boats depreciate at a much slower rate than, for example, a car. So, the boat provides actually provides stronger loan collateral for the lender.

You’re in the right place!

A boat show is like a marine supermarket. All the major boat brands and dealers are in one location, the great place to shop. Dealers likely have discount pricing and financing deals available at early-season shows like this one.