Norwalk Boat Show Helps Drive Industry Sales Heading into Q4

The 2025 Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive, attracted nearly 11,000 visitors over its four-day run Sept. 18-21. While some boat dealers are reporting fair sales as the industry continues facing headwinds, others saw strong sales and leads from potential new buyers coming out of the show.

"It's always nice to come to a boat show and meet someone totally new and have the potential to convert them to a buyer," said Forest Anderson, Staten Island Yachts. "The Norwalk Boat Show has introduced us to new people again."

Jason Robinson with Yachting Solutions noted there was "great traction and leads at the show this year. We secured several sea trials and definitely anticipate some sales as a result of exhibiting."

Feedback from booth exhibitors was generally optimistic with reports of increased business.

"We had a great response and are really happy that we came to the Norwalk Boat Show. We should have been doing this show years ago," said Alex Van Haaren, Flux Marine.

Interest was high among showgoers to learn more about boating and take advantage of the variety of on-water activations. Nearly 1,000 attendees got on the water through the Progressive On-Water Training, Power Boat Rides, Lighthouse Tour or at Try-It Cove.

New this year, the show debuted Engine Alley, providing attendees a hub to see and experience the latest in marine propulsion and innovation from leading engine manufacturers, plus on-water demos. Additional show highlights included sponsorship activations to elevate the attendee experience - test drives with BMW & Toyota Tundra towing demos and free parking courtesy of Toyota, plus the Discover Boating Virtual Experience.

Next year's Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show is scheduled for September 24-27, 2026. Contact Show Manager Jon Pritko, [email protected]for more information, or visit BoatShowNorwalk.com.