The New England Boat Show stands as an unparalleled event that heralds the start of the boating season in the Northeast with an infusion of energy, innovation, and community spirit. Powered by its strategic partnership between Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance, the show has evolved into much more than a simple exhibition — it’s a hub for boat enthusiasts of all levels seeking inspiration, education, and the latest in marine advancements. In 2025, the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center transforms into a nautical playground from January 8 to 12, filled with hundreds of boats from industry-leading manufacturers like Boston Whaler, Sea Ray, and Cobalt Boats, plus interactive experiences that bring the boating lifestyle to life through paddle sports demos, kids’ activities, and exclusive on-water sessions.
With boating’s popularity surging and thousands of new boat owners entering the scene recently, this event offers not just a glimpse at the latest yachts, pontoons, and fishing boats, but also engages families and novices with accessible resources and free boating education sessions. Whether it’s marveling at Scout Boats’ innovative designs or checking out Yamaha Marine’s powerful engines, attendees receive more than just a shopping opportunity—they gain access to a vibrant boating community that summer starts early here. This New England Boat Show is a beacon for aspiring mariners aiming to shake off the winter blues and dive headlong into upcoming adventures on the water.
Support from Progressive Insurance, known for its commitment to serving boat owners with specialized coverage and safety resources, ensures that visitors can navigate the boating purchase and lifestyle journey confidently. The show’s pricing and scheduling—including family-friendly ticket options allowing children 12 and under free admission—highlight its dedication to inclusivity and broadening the boating audience. With over 500 boats on display alongside the latest marine gear and educational sessions catering to all experience levels, this partnership between Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance creates an unrivaled platform for both industry stakeholders and water enthusiasts.
Unveiling the 2025 New England Boat Show: Key Attractions and Industry Leaders
The 2025 New England Boat Show emerges as a premier destination for boating aficionados eager to explore new models and gear with a comprehensive lineup of exhibitors and attractions. With its evolution into a powerhouse event co-sponsored by Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance, the show consolidates an impressive collection of manufacturers such as Bennington, MasterCraft, and Chris-Craft, each bringing cutting-edge designs that embody safety, performance, and luxury.
The Boston Convention and Exhibition Center’s vast indoor space allows visitors to immerse themselves in a diverse range of vessels, including pontoon boats perfect for family outings, sport boats for adrenaline seekers, and elegant cruisers for leisure enthusiasts. With over 500 boats showcased, this event is perfectly timed to inspire attendees planning their 2025 boating adventures. Exclusive boat-show-only deals on models from industry giants such as Yamaha Marine enhance the attractiveness of the event for buyers, while also promoting the latest marine technology innovations.
- Extensive boat displays including Boston Whaler’s rugged offshore models and Sea Ray’s luxury yachts
- Hands-on demos featuring Scout Boats’ latest center consoles and Cobalt Boats’ precision craftsmanship
- Interactive marine gear exhibits highlighting advancements by Yamaha Marine engines and innovative boat technologies
- Family-oriented activities, including the Discover Boating Beach Club and paddle sports experiences in an indoor pool
- On-site education sessions covering safety, boat maintenance, and navigation offered by Progressive Insurance experts
| Manufacturer | Featured Boats | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Whaler | Offshore Fishing Boats | Durability and safety innovations |
| Sea Ray | Luxury Yachts | Comfort and performance enhancements |
| Cobalt Boats | Sport Boats | Precision engineering and design |
| Scout Boats | Center Consoles | Versatility and technology |
| Bennington | Pontoons | Family-friendly features |
| MasterCraft | Wakeboards and Ski Boats | High-performance water sport boats |
| Chris-Craft | Runabouts and Classic Models | Heritage-inspired styling |
For more detailed schedules, model previews, and exclusive offers, visitors can explore the official resource pages, including the Discover Boating New England Boat Show info and the On The Water coverage. These provide essential updates on exhibit highlights and ticket details ensuring attendees optimize their visit.
Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance: Empowering Boaters Through Education and Safety
The collaboration between Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance goes beyond showcasing boats and gear; it centers on nurturing a community of informed and safe boaters. Their commitment is epitomized by a comprehensive series of educational offerings designed to address all levels of boating expertise—from first-time buyers to seasoned sailors.
Progressive Insurance plays a pivotal role by providing on-site consultations and seminars focused on insuring boats appropriately, understanding liability, and avoiding common pitfalls while enjoying watercraft activities. These sessions help attendees appreciate the importance of suitable coverage, risk management, and the multiplicity of insurance products tailored specifically for boat owners. This approach ensures a responsible boating culture that supports longevity and enjoyment on the water.
Alongside insurance insights, Discover Boating organizes hands-on tutorials and free classes that cover:
- Basic navigation and boating safety techniques
- Boat maintenance best practices tailored for New England conditions
- Environmental stewardship to preserve local waterways
- How to select the ideal boat style and size aligned with lifestyle needs
- Technology integration on modern boats, including Yamaha Marine innovations
These education programs not only foster essential skills but also help demystify the often-complex transition from dreamer to boat owner. Visitors are encouraged to partake in hands-on learning experiences available at venues such as the Discover Boating Beach Club and indoor paddle sports demonstrations. By combining safety with accessibility, the partnership sets a gold standard for responsible boating in New England and beyond.
| Education Topic | What Attendees Learn | Presented By |
|---|---|---|
| Boat Insurance Essentials | Coverage types, liability, and claims guidance | Progressive Insurance Experts |
| Boating Safety Basics | Life jackets, navigation rules, emergency preparedness | Discover Boating Staff |
| Boat Maintenance | Seasonal upkeep, engine care, and winterizing tips | Marine Technicians |
| Environmental Responsibility | Best practices to protect local waterways and marine life | Conservation Organizations |
| Choosing the Right Boat | Matching boat types to user needs and activity preferences | Industry Specialists |
Innovations and Trends at the Discover Boating New England Boat Show
The 2025 edition of the New England Boat Show serves as a dynamic showcase for marine industry trends with an emphasis on innovation in design, technology, and sustainability. Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance enable visitors to experience how cutting-edge developments shape the future of boating.
Manufacturers such as Boston Whaler continue refining hull safety and stability, integrating lightweight composites to enhance fuel efficiency without compromising durability. Meanwhile, Sea Ray’s latest line of luxury yachts includes smart-enabled systems that allow remote monitoring and operation through mobile apps—revolutionizing ease of use and connectivity.
Similarly, Cobalt Boats is focusing on sleek, performance-driven aesthetics paired with state-of-the-art onboard amenities. Yamaha Marine’s revolutionary engine technologies spotlight fuel conservation and reduced emissions, aligning with growing environmental awareness in boating communities.
- Electric and hybrid propulsion advancements promising quieter and cleaner rides
- Smart boat helm consoles integrating GPS, weather forecasting, and diagnostics
- Eco-conscious material use and biodegradable components in manufacturing
- Enhanced onboard safety systems with automatic collision avoidance technologies
- Interactive displays explaining new features and benefits directly by manufacturers
The show’s commitment to innovation is exemplified by the presence of companies like Scout Boats, which integrate adaptable features for fishing and cruising versatility, incorporating modular designs that appeal to diverse boating lifestyles. Bennington’s eco-friendly pontoon designs also attract those seeking both relaxation and sustainable practices.
| Trend | Description | Featured Manufacturers |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Propulsion | Battery-powered engines for quieter, cleaner propulsion | Yamaha Marine, Scout Boats |
| Smart Helm Technology | Integrated control systems for navigation, safety, and communication | Sea Ray, Cobalt Boats |
| Eco-conscious Materials | Use of sustainable composites and recyclable components | Bennington, Boston Whaler |
| Advanced Safety Systems | Collision avoidance, automatic emergency features | Chris-Craft, Sea Ray |
| Modular Design | Boat customization options based on activity type | Scout Boats |
Detailed exploration of these developments is available through resources like the New Features and Innovations guide, helping paddlers and boat buyers stay ahead of the curve as the boating landscape evolves.
Family and Community Engagement: Bringing Boating to All Ages and Interests
One of the defining features of the partnership between Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance is the focus on cultivating a welcoming environment that encourages family participation and community connection. The New England Boat Show is tailored to captivate visitors of all demographics, turning first-time onlookers into passionate boaters through engaging activities catered to each age group.
The show features a specially designed kids’ mini paddleboat lake, where children can safely experience boating basics in a controlled setting. This immersive learning introduces young visitors to key maritime rules and the joy of water-based recreation. The Discover Boating Beach Club offers a unique hands-on zone for guests to try paddleboarding and kayaking under expert supervision, promoting physical activity and water confidence among diverse participants.
Community-focused events include meet-and-greet sessions with industry experts, contests sponsored by leading companies including Progressive Insurance, and social gatherings that allow boating enthusiasts to build networks ahead of the boating season. This interconnected approach makes boating more accessible and fosters a deep sense of belonging among attendees.
- Children’s paddle boating and water safety lessons
- Family-friendly exhibits and interactive experiences
- Social events and networking opportunities for boaters
- Giveaways and contests sponsored by key partners
- Local business participation highlighting New England’s maritime heritage
| Activity | Description | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Paddleboat Lake | Safe boating experience for kids | Children ages 5-12 |
| Discover Boating Beach Club | Paddleboarding and kayaking activities | Families and individuals |
| Networking Mixers | Events for community connection | Adult boat enthusiasts |
| Industry Expert Q&A | Education and advice sessions | All ages |
| Contests and Giveaways | Opportunities to win boating gear and experiences | Visitors of all ages |
For families planning their visit and anyone interested in the show’s community-driven aspects, the New England Boating directory offers event details and local accommodation options designed to enhance the overall experience.
Practical Information and Ticketing for the Discover Boating New England Boat Show
Planning your visit to the Discover Boating New England Boat Show is made easy with clear scheduling, affordable ticketing, and accessible venue location information. The event takes place at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center located at 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA. In 2025, the show runs from Wednesday, January 8 to Sunday, January 12, with hours optimized to accommodate working professionals and families alike:
- Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
General admission tickets are priced at $20 for adults, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry when accompanied by a paid adult. This inclusive policy encourages families to experience the show together without extra cost for younger attendees.
For convenience, it’s recommended to purchase tickets online through the official portal at NewEnglandBoatShow.com to skip lines and plan your visit in advance. Additionally, transportation options nearby include parking facilities, public transit access, and shuttle services, which further streamline event attendance.
| Day | Opening Hours | Ticket Price | Child Admission |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday – Friday | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM | $20 | Free for 12 & under |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM | $20 | Free for 12 & under |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | $20 | Free for 12 & under |
For comprehensive visitor guidelines and the latest news, the National Marine Manufacturers Association press release provides valuable insights into the show’s impact on Boston’s economy and boating communities. Such information helps reinforce the event’s position as a must-attend for marine life enthusiasts and industry insiders.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Discover Boating New England Boat Show
- When and where is the 2025 New England Boat Show held?
The event runs from January 8 to 12, 2025, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA.
- What types of boats are featured at the show?
The show highlights a broad variety, including luxury yachts from Sea Ray, durable offshore boats by Boston Whaler, sport boats by Cobalt Boats, family-friendly pontoons by Bennington, and versatile center consoles from Scout Boats.
- Are children allowed to attend for free?
Yes, children aged 12 and under receive free entry when accompanied by a paid adult.
- Does the event include educational opportunities?
Absolutely. Discover Boating and Progressive Insurance provide free learning sessions on boating safety, insurance essentials, maintenance, and environmental responsibility.
- Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be bought online at the official New England Boat Show website to avoid waiting lines.
