Hot New Shows

Diverse attendance

With vessels docked for hands-on exploration, these events offer a diverse mix of visitors the chance to tour boats, ask questions and experience boating firsthand. Organizers say the variety of attendees reflects a growing interest in making boating more accessible and inclusive.

“Last year we saw an equal mix of ages, genders and [boating] experience in our attendance,” says Podolsky.

“The Muskegon Boat Show looks for a vibrant and diverse audience, reflecting the industry’s trends,” adds Roger Zuidema of the Muskegon Boat Life Adelaide Pointe Boat Show. “It’s no longer just the established crowd; we are seeing a rich mix of attendees, including first-time buyers, women who have a big say in the boating purchase and use, urban [dwellers] that need a break, and a solid amount of ‘Boomers and Gen Xers that drive the show.”

Women are among the key drivers behind boat purchases.

“Men are listening to the wants and needs of spouses in the purchase of boats,” Zuidema continues. “A joint agreement on the make and style is beneficial to all and will lead to what I call ‘Smiles on Boats.’ Couple’s purchases are very common. It’s also great to see the number of women captains increasing — taking out their friends to enjoy a girls’ day out. Continued investment by women will continue to be a trend.”

It’s not just about the boats

These new boat shows are popping up at destinations that are attractions in their own right, like Muskegon, Michigan’s brand-new Adelaide Pointe Marina, which opened in 2024, and Chicago’s Navy Pier Marina, which opened in 2025. With modern marina amenities and scenic waterfront settings, the venues themselves add to the appeal for attendees.

“As we look for show-goers, the experience is what counts. That’s why, when we explored the opportunity to use Adelaide Pointe for the show, we were so excited because of what’s available,” says Zuidema, listing the marina’s new floating dock and slips able to accommodate boats up to 80 feet, the longest and fastest self-serve fuel dock in West Michigan, the large pool and hot tub, the Captain’s Lounge, the private restrooms, the showers, the laundry facilities, the on-site Ship Store, as well as the on-site Muskegon Brewing Company.

“Leestma Park and Pier, which is open to the public for walking and fishing, provides direct access to the 12-mile Muskegon Lakeshore Bike Path,” Zuidema adds.

Podolsky says the new Chicago International Boat Show boasts all the attractions and restaurants available on Navy Pier, including (among others) Flyover, the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Centennial (Ferris) Wheel, and Pier Park rides, along with dozens of restaurants, shops andthe best location in Chicago.

The WCBYS at Burnham Harbor, which will feature more than 150 in-water power and sailboats up to 90 feet, is smack in the city near Soldier Field and the Museum Campus, offering visitors a launchpad to explore Chicago’s top tourist spots.

“Burnham Harbor offers an unparalleled setting, where attendees can step directly into the show from land and water to experience hands-on learning and explore the latest marine innovations in a fully immersive environment,” Andrew Doole, president of U.S. boat shows for Informa Markets, said in a statement. “This event goes beyond showcasing boats; it’s about embracing the boating lifestyle in a way that seamlessly connects the water, the city and the community, welcoming boaters of all skill levels to kick off the season.”

With exciting activities, budget-friendly admission, a range of products at every price, and opportunities to buy, boat shows bring the community closer to the water.

“The boating public is a very diverse group of ethnicities, genders and socio-economic backgrounds,” Podolsky says. “There is something for everyone in boating, from the latest in rigid hull and inflatables to water bikes and vessels of all sizes and types.”