Boat Show Etiquette: How to Ensure a Successful First Visit

Before stepping onboard a yacht that is atop your purchase shortlist, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with boat show etiquette, ensuring you, your friends, and your family all have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read on to discover some of YachtBuyer’s key tips to make the most of your first visit.

Make Appointments, Wait Your Turn, and Respect Lines: Boat shows are bustling environments, and as such, you must make appointments with exhibitors to take a look around most yachts — it's rarely a free-for-all. Be patient and wait in line to board the vessels. When onboard, respect personal space and allow others to explore areas before entering. Keep in mind that some vessels have a limited amount of space, so being patient and mindful of others is key.

Dress Comfortably and Wear Suitable Footwear: Comfort is essential, as boat shows often involve a lot of walking. Wear clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking long distances over extended periods of time. Note that you might be required to remove your shoes before boarding some vessels, so slip-on shoes or shoes that are easy to get on/off are usually more convenient.

Stay Informed and Engage: Listen to presentations, ask questions, and engage with the exhibitors. Be mindful, however, of others waiting for their turn, and avoid monopolizing an exhibitor’s valuable time.

Dispose of Rubbish Correctly, and Never Use A Toilet Onboard: Use designated bins for any rubbish or waste. Keep the displays and vessels clean by properly disposing of any unwanted items, such as brochures, and food wrappers. It also goes without saying, but avoid using the toilet onboard any vessels you explore, there a plenty of public toilets available at all boat shows.

Keep an Eye on Your Children: If attending with children, keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t endanger themselves. Boat shows often take place on the water, and with some yachts only having low bulwarks or minimal safety rails in place, it’s easy to fall overboard. It is also imperative that children don’t accidentally damage exhibits or vessels, or disrupt other attendees.

Ask Permission for Photos: If you’re eager to capture moments or details of the vessels, always ask for permission before taking photos or videos. While many exhibitors are happy to share their vessels visually, it’s considerate to request permission first.

While these are only a handful of dos and don’ts, by following our guide you’re sure to enjoy a positive and engaging experience at your first boat show. Understanding and observing proper etiquette not only enhances your own experience (and each person with you) but also contributes to a pleasant environment for everyone attending the show.

Boat Shows: A Buyer's Guide

The World's Largest Yachts at Boat Shows

When visiting the world's biggest yachts at boat shows, adhering to proper etiquette is essential. These prestigious yachts require appointments for viewings, and access is typically restricted to ensure a personalized and secure experience. Serious superyacht buyers interested in exploring these luxury yachts should contact their broker well in advance to schedule a visit. This advance notice allows for the necessary arrangements and ensures that your time aboard is both productive and respectful of the yacht owner's privacy. Following these guidelines helps maintain the professionalism and exclusivity of the yacht show experience.