FAQ

• Q: What are the show hours

  A: Thur. Dec 1, 10am - 6pm
  Fri. Dec 2, 10am - 6pm
  Sat. Dec 3, 10am - 7pm
  Sun. Dec 4, 10am - 5pm

• Q: Where can I purchase tickets to the show

  A: (1) The best place to purchase a ticket is from our website. Tickets are automatically discounted by $2 when purchased from www.showmanagement.com
  
  (2) You can purchase a ticket at the show's box office on show site. Free admission for all children 15 and under
  

• Q: Where is the Show Location

  A: Show Location:
  Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin
  400 First Street South
  St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  
  Plenty of onsite parking is available at the municipal parking garages and airport surrounding show grounds. Please see Parking and Transportation for more information
  

• Q: What security measures should I be prepared for when coming to the Show?

  A: Everyone on show site is subject to Random bag checks
  

• Q: Can we dock overnight in the free docking area

  A: No overnight docking at the "Come by Boat Docks"

• Q: Is the Show handicap accessible?

  A: All entrances into the show are accessible for people with disabilities. However, we can not guarantee access aboard some of the vessels.

• Q: Can I bring my Pet? Even if he/she fits in my bag?

  A: No. Please leave all pets at home. We allow Service Animals or other licensed, working dogs.
  

• Q: Can I buy a boat at the Show?

  A: Absolutely!

• Q: If I buy a used yacht, who is responsible for paying the yacht broker?

  A: Similar to real estate, the seller will pay all yacht broker commissions. This can vary though. It's best that you address that up front with the dealer or broker.

• Q: What financing options are offered to make the most of my boat purchase from an investment standpoint?

  A: Your boat may qualify as a residence for purposes of deducting interest expenses on your tax return. In such instances, some customers choose to finance more of the purchase price of their boat and hold on to their cash for other purposes. Of course, you need to discuss these issues with your tax advisor for specific recommendations. 

• Q: How much can I expect to pay for marine insurance?

  A: Cost for marine insurance depends on several factors, like your boating experience, current navigational equipment, where your yacht will be used, the value of your yacht and whether you will be living aboard or cruising offshore.

• Q: How long will it take to process my loan?

  A: The most sophisticated marine lenders can process loan applications from within a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the complexity of the loan. In many cases, a customer can be notified of the results within a matter of hours. Your marine dealer/broker can help facilitate a quick loan decision through their relationships with various lenders.  Also, you may call most lenders directly or go to their Internet sites for additional information.

• Q: Why do I need a survey done before I buy a used boat?

  A: A professional survey is essential for all used boat sales, and most lenders require one. These surveys can uncover information about the boat’s condition that you may not have known. Getting a professional survey before you buy could save you thousands of dollars down the road. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Q: Can I get aboard any boat?

  A: In general, most boats at the show can be boarded, with the exception of the superyachts and megayachts.  In some cases, you may have to go through a qualifying process to get on board a boat, in others, you can just take your shoes off and go.  Access is granted at the discretion of the exhibiting manufacturer/dealer

• Q: Do I need to make an appointment in advance to visit a manufacturer or dealer?

  A: Yes, but not necessarily. The advantage of the Boat Show is that there will be plenty of representatives and dealers on site ready to start negotiations with you at the Show. Visitors who purchase tickets from our website are then sent a short survey in which your answers help us to match you with a dealer or manufacturer that has something to offer that matches your needs.

• Q: Is there anything else to buy besides boats?

  A: Yes. There is much more to the Boat Show than just the boats. There's apparel, electronics, fishing and diving equipment, jewelry, hats and caps, sunglasses, destinations/real estate, artwork, magazines, multi-media, safety equipment, boating accessories, engines, generators, and more. Even if you don't own a boat, you can still go on a shopping spree.