By Nicki Polan, MBIA Executive Director and Show Manager (and lifelong boater)
- Boat shows save you time and money. MBIA brings the top marine businesses to the show offering you one-stop-shopping with more than 100 exhibitors under one roof. It would take you weeks to visit this many businesses around the state. Come see and shop hundreds of boats but also docks, boat covers, electronics, wake and paddle boards, tow toys, clothing, and so much more. Come shop with us at the Detroit Boat Show Feb. 12-15 at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace.
- Have you been thinking about becoming a boater? If you are interested in learning more about the boating lifestyle, come talk to the experts at the boat show. We will help you understand how affordable boating can be and find the right boat for your needs depending on where you want to boat, and what on-water activities you are looking for. How easy it has become to operate a boat and how easy it is to get on the water here in Michigan.
- Boats are more affordable than many people realize. They don’t depreciate as quickly as cars, and many people keep their boats for more than 30 years. Because of this, some boats can be financed for up to 30 years, bringing your boat payment down or letting you buy a bigger boat than you thought you could afford. PLUS: money spent on a vacation is gone in a week. The same dollars as a monthly payment gets you a boat every weekend, every summer. Come find your dream boat at the Detroit Boat Show!
- It is scientifically proven that being on and near the water brings health benefits. It’s called the “blue mind.” Boating takes you away from screens and stresses in the world. It brings families together, face to face, making memories that last a lifetime. Take a strong step toward wellness, come find the right boat for your lifestyle at the Detroit Boat Show.
- In Michigan you don’t need to live on the water to get on the water. Michigan has more than 1,200 boating access sites and 80 state-run marinas across Michigan, making it easy to go boating close to home or discover new lakes. If you are not into trailering your boat, you could consider keeping it at a marina. Many marinas offer amenities like pools, pickleball, basketball courts, and more – making them the perfect place for a floating cottage. Come see us at the Detroit Boat Show.
- Boats are easier to operate than ever before with AI, electronics and connectivity. Automatic docking systems help you bring that big boat into the marina like a pro. Virtual anchoring systems keep you right where the fish are biting. Weather, safety and environmental monitoring systems keep your family and boat safe while on the water. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi help you stay connected to the world (if you desire) and bring the ultimate entertaining experience to your on-water adventure. Come see what is new at the Detroit Boat Show.
- Join the fun! If you’re not in the market for a new boat this year, rendezvous with your boating friends and family at the boat show! Meet Captain Lee from Below Deck, Hang in the new Yacht Lounge with good food and specialty cocktails. Bring the kids to their Kids Zone and create their own shirts or a new plushie first mate. It’s been a long winter (so far), come inside and dream of summer that is not too far away when we’ll be back on the water together again!
For more information visit www.detroitboatshow.net. HOURS: Thursday: 2 p.m. – 9 p.m., Friday: Noon – 9 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Parking is available for a fee at Vibe Credit Union Showplace (formerly Suburban Collection Showplace). The Progressive Detroit Boat Show is owned and produced by the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA), the voice of boating in Michigan. Revenue generated from this event is returned to fund boaters’ interests via MBIA’s programs and services.
The Progressive Detroit Boat Show is sponsored by Progressive Insurance and Great Lakes Scuttlebutt, the official publication of the MBIA Boat Shows.
