WALK A BOAT SHOW LIKE A PRO WITH EXPERT ADVICE FROM ROD & RENEE TWITCHIN AT RTMARINE
The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is one of the most exciting events on the boating calendar. Whether you’re a first time buyer, a long time owner, or simply someone who loves being around boats, it’s easy to get swept up in the energy of the day. With polished hulls, staged interiors, and every brand presenting their best, the atmosphere is designed to impress.
But behind the excitement, a boat show can also be overwhelming. There’s a lot to take in, and it’s not always easy to know what to look at, or what to look past. After decades of surveying vessels of all sizes, we’ve learned that a few simple habits can help buyers make clearer, more confident decisions when walking the docks. Here are five practical insights to help you navigate the show like a pro.
START WITH THE STRUCTURE, NOT THE SHINE
Presentation is a big part of any boat show. Fresh upholstery, polished stainless and spotless engine rooms all help a vessel stand out. But these elements don’t tell the whole story.
Take a moment to look at the fundamentals:
- the hull form
- the layout
- the access to systems
- the build quality
- the engineering logic
These are the things you’ll live with long after the shine fades.
ASK ABOUT THE VESSEL’S STORY
Every vessel has a history and understanding that story is more important than any single feature. Ask questions like:
- “What has changed on this vessel in the last 12 months?”
- “How has it been used?”
- “What maintenance is coming due?”
A vessel that has been consistently cared for will show it, not just in presentation, but in the way its systems align with its age and use.
DON’T LET UPGRADES DISTRACT YOU FROM THE FOUNDATIONS
Boat shows are full of vessels with impressive upgrades:
new electronics, thrusters, appliances, lighting, entertainment systems. These additions can be fantastic, but only if the underlying systems are capable of supporting them.
We often see vessels where the upgrades are excellent, but the cooling, charging, plumbing or structural supports remain original. At a show, it’s easy to admire the new gear and miss the foundations beneath it.
A good rule of thumb: upgrades should complement the vessel, not compensate for it.
COMPARE LIKE WITH LIKE
It’s natural to jump between different brands, sizes and styles as you walk the show. But meaningful comparisons only happen when you look at vessels designed for similar purposes.
Before you start comparing, ask yourself:
- How will I use the boat?
- Who will be on board?
- Where will I operate it?
- What matters most: comfort, performance, range, simplicity, or ease of maintenance?
Clarity on your needs makes the whole show easier to navigate.
TAKE YOUR TIME — EXCITEMENT ISN’T A DEADLINE
Boat shows create a sense of urgency. Crowds, conversations and limited time offers can make decisions feel rushed. But a vessel is a long term investment, and the best decisions are made with a clear head. If something catches your eye, enjoy the moment, then step back, revisit it later, and consider it with fresh perspective. A second look often reveals things you didn’t notice the first time.
A FINAL THOUGHT – Boat shows are a fantastic place to explore, learn and get inspired. With a little structure and a calm approach, they can also be the perfect environment to make a confident, informed decision about your next vessel.
If you’re considering a purchase during or after the show, independent advice can help you understand the vessel beyond the presentation. Whether you’re buying your first boat or your fifth, Renee and I are here to support you with clear, practical, evidence-based assessments — the same approach we bring to every job. Enjoy the show, take your time, and let the right vessel find you. rtmarine.com.au
Published in print April-July 2026
