Newport Boat Show reports success, despite attendance downturn
Organisers of the 52nd edition of the Newport International Boat Show in Rhode Island, which ran from 14-17 September 2023, have confirmed that this year’s edition saw a downturn in gate attendance compared to 2022.
The show, which is managed by Newport Exhibition Group, was held under the threat of Hurricane Lee. The storm darkened skies on the Saturday (16 September 2023), but still saw plenty of ‘tried and true’ boaters come out.
On the remaining days of the show, from all indications, this year’s edition was a buyers’ show, with many motivated and qualified purchasers. The new, expanded exhibit space on Perry Mill Wharf showed potential for future programming development.
Bryan Braley, president at OneWater Yacht Group, commented: “There was a fantastic atmosphere at Newport International Boat Show, with lots of excitement for the launch of the Sunseeker Ocean 182. The interior space on board this exceptional yacht is groundbreaking, and the response we have had at Newport was overwhelmingly positive. We are excited to continue the launch tour of North America at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show at the end of October.”
In a statement, show organisers say the four-day show at the Newport Yachting Center in downtown Newport ‘was an overall success for exhibitors, sponsors and showgoers alike.’
“The weather is always an unknown factor when planning events this time of year,” says Lisa Knowles, show director of Newport International Boat Show. “In spite of multiple contingency plans outlined for both exhibitors and attendees, as Hurricane Lee was predicted to have a major impact on the event, the sun shone for most of the event, and Sunday’s attendance was incredible.
“There were many serious buyers, and many impressive sales were made, as well as positive connections among those who came. We are already looking forward to what next year will bring.”
The 2024 Newport International Boat Show is scheduled for 12-15 September, 2024.
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