The Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive Insurance, saw a steady stream of attendees over its four-day run, attracting more than 11,300 visitors. Overall, feedback from exhibitors has been cautiously optimistic, with boat dealers reporting a mix of solid to fair sales and leads entering the fourth quarter:

"We had an excellent show. We set a goal for each show we attend that a specific number of qualified leads are reached. We exceeded our goal and will sell boats as a result of exhibiting," noted Greg Hopkins, Eastern Boats.

Brittany Friel of Oyster Harbors Marine echoed, "We had a very good show. There was good interest on both boats we brought, and we should have brought more because people were asking questions on models I didn't have on display."

Reinforcing consumer interest, the show's Boat Finder, which allows attendees to shop and compare models before, during and after the show, saw a 22% uptick in visits compared to 2023 with 270K boat card models viewed, a 56% increase, resulting in more than 1,000 direct referrals to brand and exhibitor websites.And, many accessory exhibitors reported a successful show with attendees purchasing products to outfit their boating lifestyle.

"I am so glad that I came to the show this year. It was a very successful show, and we have plenty of work in the next few months," said James Laska, Constellation Marine.

Interest was high among showgoers eager to get on the water, with nearly 1,000 participating in the variety of on-water experiences and free educational opportunities, from free boating lessons and boat rides along Long Island Sound to the show's ever-popular Try It Cove for paddle enthusiasts.

Next year's Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show is scheduled for 18-21, 2025. Contact [email protected]for more information, or visit BoatShowNorwalk.com.