Whether you’re shopping for your dream boat or just need a great excuse to get out of the house, the Fort Myers Boat Show is the place to go. The show runs November 13-15 and offers the largest display of boats, boating products, and services on our coast. The show features 600+ boats from 130+ manufacturers, plus accessory and equipment displays, so there’s a lot to see. Here’s some insider advice for making the most of this year’s show.
Snag Tickets Online
There’s never been a better time to skip the ticket booth altogether and purchase tickets online. Online ticket holders will enjoy a special entrance line for fast entry to the show, plus show organizers have made online tickets the same price as gate admission ($16 for adults and kids 15 and under get in free with a paid adult).
Slip into Something Comfortable
With exhibits winding around Centennial Park and through the Caloosa Sound Convention Center to the City Yacht Basin, this year’s show is big. Remember to dress comfortably for the weather and lots of walking. You’ll get your steps in as you peruse the show’s extensive indoor and outdoor exhibit areas (and maybe venture downtown for dinner and drinks afterward). Most dealers request that you remove your shoes before touring a boat, so we always recommend slip-on shoes.
Wheeling and Dealing
Doing your homework before the show will help you navigate any special boat show pricing or incentives dealers offer during the show. First-time boat buyers should check out our tips for narrowing down the sea of options. We strongly urge serious boat shoppers to determine their budget before heading to the show, making sure the entire family is on the same page. If you already have a specific model or manufacturer in mind, check out this year’s list of participating boat lines so you can better plan your visit.
Climb Aboard
A boat show is the perfect opportunity to explore a variety of makes and models all in one place. So, don’t be afraid to climb into the boat and really inspect it. If you’re interested in a boat, take your time and open all the hatches, take stock of the storage, lounge in the seats, give the hull a good knock—do whatever you need to get a feel for the quality, layout, and comfort onboard. And ask tons of questions, from specs to features to how it will handle on our local waterways. You won’t regret it.
Safety First
This year’s show has been carefully designed to ensure the show grounds provide a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. COVID-19 safety is of utmost importance and show organizers are committed to social distancing and enhanced cleanliness protocols. You can read more about all the safety measures in place for the event.
Full event details including directions and parking info, FAQs, and more are all available here. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and tag us in your 2020 Fort Myers Boat Show pics for a chance to be featured on our page.
See you at the show!