Boat show docks at the Richmond Raceway

For those in love with boats, Richmond was the place to be over the Valentine’s Day weekend. The 20th Annual Boat Show was held once again at the raceway complex on Laburnum Avenue and visitor’s trickled in over the three-day period to examine the dozens of watercraft showcased in three warehouses outside the track

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More than 40 dealers used 160,000 square feet of floor space to show off the latest models of jet skis, bass boats, kayaks and pontoon and sail boats of almost every description. Many of the industry’s leading brand names were on display and for a $7 entry fee, guests could board the boats and talk with sales personnel if interested in a purchase.

The big question — how much cheaper are the boats at the show? Signs and stickers advertised “Hot Deals” and “No Money Down.” The organizers say  the products, which range in price from $8,000-$150,000, were all substantially marked down from dealership prices.

Ned Sullivan, owner of boat dealership in Yorktown, Va. said he thinks the exclusive warranties might be the key to reducing customers’ sticker shock.

“Honda gives you a 5-year warranty always, so Suzuki and Yamaha will have to catch up by giving a 6 year warranty,” Sullivan said. “Those are the only top name brands in 4-stroke motors. There really is nobody else out there offering similar warranties at this time.”

AGI Events based in Chester, Va. puts on the exposition every year and manager Dave Body says that despite the uncertain nature of the economy, the boating market is still booming.

“We get a lot of people even though Richmond isn’t a huge center for boating, there are alot of people who live here that own homes in Tidewater and many companies are catering to them,” Body said.

The Richmond Boat Show is the biggest in the state, grossing more than the shows in Chantilly and Hampton Roads. Free parking and a reasonably priced snack bar helped sweeten the deal for those not going to buy.  Midlothian resident Tom Young came with his 10-year-old daughter just to look.

“We are here just to support our local marina and see what’s out there. I may be in the market for a boat in the future but right now I’m just getting educated,” said Young.

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