New York, Minneapolis Boat Shows Deliver Encouraging Sales Amid Market Disruptions

The Discover Boating® New York Boat Show®, in partnership with Progressive®, and the Discover Boating® Minneapolis Boat Show®, in partnership with Progressive®, took place last weekend amid challenging external conditions that impacted attendance in both markets. Despite disruptions, exhibitors in both cities reported strong sales and engagement, reinforcing boat shows' importance as key retail and marketing platforms.

In New York, Winter Storm Fern affected travel across the region, leading to lower overall weekend attendance and forcing the show to close on Sunday. Even with the abbreviated schedule, several exhibitors reported solid interactions with customers, reflecting strong buyer intent among those able to attend.

"Winter boat shows have started off strong for Chaparral and Robalo Boats. Attendance is on par with last year, and we're seeing a noticeable uptick in first-time buyers entering the market. We're excited by this momentum and look forward to carrying it through the remainder of the winter show season," said Aaron Krenzer, Chaparral and Robalo Boats.

"We had a record show, so we're still happy walking out of there even with having to close on Sunday," noted Chad Trimm, Regal Boats.

"Buyer sentiment at the NY Show has been incredibly strong. We have already written a dozen deals, with more on the way. It's clear that many families will be on the water enjoying summer boating,"echoed Ally Stacy, Strong's Marine.

In Minneapolis, the boat show coincided with heightened civic activity in the downtown area, which contributed to reduced foot traffic. Show organizers worked closely with city officials and the convention center throughout the event to ensure clear communication with exhibitors and attendees related to safety and smooth operations at the boat show. While overall attendance was lower than last year, multiple exhibitors noted stronger boat show sales year over year.

"We had a great show. MarineMax was up 35 percent in unit sales year over year spanning our SeaRay, Nautique, Cruisers Yachts and pontoon lines," noted TJ Ortmann, GM of MarineMax Rogers/Excelsior.

"Despite headwinds outside of our control, our sales team met with quality buyers this year, resulting in increased boat sales compared to 2025. We think 2026 will be a better year for business," said John Wooden, River Valley Marine.

The 2026 Minneapolis Innovation Awards ceremony took place on opening day, honoring six winners across four categories: aluminum and non-fiberglass fishing boats, fiberglass boats, pontoons, and furnishings. This year's program drew a record number of entries and complemented the debut of the show's New Product Showcase, which launched to positive feedback from both exhibitors and attendees.

Across both markets, early sales indicators and exhibitor feedback point to continued consumer interest in boating. As the winter boat show season continues, NMMA remains focused on delivering safe, high-quality experiences that support member sales, elevate industry visibility, and connect consumers with the boating lifestyle.