It’s that time again boat lovers! The Upstate South Carolina Boat Show, one of the largest events of its kind in the state, is scheduled for January 26-29, 2024.

This is the premier “get ready for spring selling season” kickoff event for boat dealers and all things lake life, and it begins at the Greenville Convention Center. This annual event, now in its 53rd year, will feature a vast array of boats including Fishing, Pontoon, Speed, Ski, Cruisers, and Personal Watercrafts. Also on display will be boat docks, fishing equipment, as well as finance and insurance vendors; everything you need to start the season right!

Boats represented include Alumacraft, Angler Quest, Avalon, Bennington, Carolina Skiff, Chaparral, Crest, Crownline, Four Winns, Godfry, Key West, Mastercraft, Monterey, Moomba, Nautic Star, Nautique, Quest, Ranger, Regency, Ronix, Scarab, Scout, Sea Pro, Sea Ray, Seahunt, Skeeter, South Bay, StarCraft, Stingray, Sunchaser, Suntracker, Supra, Sylvan, Tahoe, Tige, Tracker, Trifecta, Veranda, Xcursion, Xpress & Yamaha.

For additional information, visit upstatescboatshow.com or call 864-882-7671.

Whether you’re a long-time boat owner or still considering the marine lifestyle, there is no better place than a boat show to shop around, catch up on the latest gear, and maybe even learn a few new tricks. In fact, there is so much to see and do that you might get a bit overwhelmed, especially if you are new to the scene.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time (and energy) when visiting this year’s boat show:

Chart your course.

A bit of planning and homework can significantly enhance your outing. Give some thought to what you hope to accomplish during your time at the show. If you are a potential dock or boat buyer, determine what kind of lakefront lifestyle you are hoping to achieve and which models you’d like to see and where they are located, in addition to pre-planning for how your potential new boat is going to fit into your new dock.

Already own a boat? That’s perfect too! Consider making a list of the gear and equipment you’d like to see, whether it be to upgrade your dock or boat. Maybe you’re looking to upgrade some electronics, invest in additional safety gear, or buy a new dock ladder. Take a few minutes to look over the show’s literature to see what vendors will be on hand. Come prepared with any necessary specs, including measurements for any products, options, or accessories you might be mulling. Pictures of your current docking situation, boat, and shoreline can also help a salesperson provide you with options and accurate estimates.

Dress the part.

The clothes really do make the man and woman at a boat show. Let’s start with shoes. Comfort is key because you will be doing a lot of walking on different surfaces which may include docks, ramps, access stairs to boats, concrete floors, parking lots, and more. Slip-ons are a great idea as many exhibitors may ask you to take off your shoes before walking on displays or boarding boats.

Get up close and personal.

Take your time when touring docks, dock accessories, and boats that have captured your interest. Try and envision yourself truly using it and enjoying it on a regular basis to get a real sense of what it would be like to own and operate the boat, dock, or dock accessories. Check for quality of craftsmanship in everything.

Do your homework.

If you’re in the market for a dock, dock accessories, boat, or boat accessories, ask yourself some questions before arrival: bounce ideas around with family members, friends, or boaters you may know, and come prepared to have detailed, informed conversations with the on-site salespeople. You can also call us and walk through some prep with you, either pre-show or at the show, if that is easier. Do you enjoy water sports or fishing; want sun and shade options; need extra bumper options; are you restricted by your community, etc? Let’s discuss which option would be best for YOU. The sales representatives present will have the resources and experiences to help you make the best choice and will ask you the RIGHT questions for you to consider.

Be prepared to gather data.

A small notebook comes in handy for jotting specs and other info. A daypack or tote bag is ideal for stashing information sheets, brochures, and vendor swag. And don’t forget that your phone’s camera is an excellent tool for capturing information and images that may be helpful in your post-show deliberations. Snap a pic of a spec sheet, and you have one less piece of paper to carry.

And, finally, be sure to pack your imagination and sense of adventure when heading to the convention center. This boat show is a place of possibilities. Envision it here, and you’ll be one step closer to making it happen on the water.

Visit Us At Booth T1 To Learn More About Kroeger Marine Custom Docks, Innovative Products, And Accessories. We can’t wait to see you!

If you have been to the Upstate Boat Show in the past, you know that it is always a blast! If not, check out our gallery below to see what you’re missing out on: