Bay Bridge Boat Show resounding success

The Bay Bridge Boat Show, an annual springtime in-water powerboat show, was graced with good weather and lots of sunshine.  Exhibitor space expanded by 13 percent and included more than 270 boats on display. Ticket sales grew by three percent over 2014–a year that saw a 25 percent increase in attendance.

As the national economy rebounds, the maritime industry is benefiting from high consumer confidence, inexpensive fuel, and low interest and

unemployment rates. 

“We are experiencing persistent growth across all categories in exhibitor space and ticket sales,” said Paul Jacobs, president and general manager of the Annapolis Boat Shows.

“I am encouraged by increased sales in smaller boats under 35 feet, especially trailerable boats. This may indicate a return of the middle income demographic to boating and boat buying, a group that has been missing over the past six years.”

 Tim Wilbricht, president and principal of Annapolis Yacht Sales was impressed with the volume and the quality of attendees and saw an increased lead count from last year.

 Adding to great prospect lists to work during the weeks and months ahead, many exhibitors like Formula, Beacon Light Marina, Arcadia Yacht Sales, Adirondack Guideboats, Bayside Jet Drive, Pocket Yachts, Annapolis Yacht Sales reported selling one or more boats at the Bay Bridge Boat Show, April 17-19, 2015. 

 Annapolis Boat Sales disclosed closing deals on a total of four boats ranging from 18 to 25 feet. 

Ocean City, Maryland exhibitor Bayside Jet Drive agreed that attendees were definitely looking to buy. They sold more jet skis (11) this year than the past four years combined. 

Mark Schulstad of Pocket Yacht in Grasonville, Maryland said that his team had the best show they have had in ten years. 

In a recent survey, 93 percent of Annapolis Boat Show attendees reported a ‘very enjoyable’ experience and 40 percent indicated that they purchased a powerboat that they initially saw at an Annapolis Boat Show.

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