Spend quality time with family and friends. It may seem simple, but boating is an activity that connects people like no other – whether cruising across a lake with your closest friends or taking your children tubing – boating helps you forget the stress left behind on land and bond with family and friends.
Enjoy an affordable leisure activity. Seventy-four percent of boats on the water are owned by families with household incomes under $100,000. Many new entry-level models sell for around $10,000 and financing options can get you on the water for as little as $200/month.
Open a passport to great activities. Getting your first boat on the water is just the start of the fun. Whether you’re interested in fishing, wakeboarding, waterskiing or just sightseeing, boating is a gateway to a myriad of exciting outdoor activities.
Find it’s closer than you think. There are plenty of waterways ideal for boating across the country. In fact, 90 percent of Americans live within an hour’s drive of navigable body of water perfect for boating.
Unlock a lifelong passion. Nearly three-quarters of U.S. boaters today were introduced to the pastime as a child. Get the whole family involved and introduce your children to a recreational activity they can enjoy and share throughout their lives.
Go high tech on the high seas. Can’t get enough of the latest gadgets? New marine accessories, such as GPS navigational systems, satellite radio and plasma TVs, help create the ultimate boating experience for the tech-savvy boater.
Consider the tax break. Depending on the size of your purchase, a boat can be classified as a second home, which could mean big savings at tax time.
Create a home away from home. With air-conditioned cabins, state-of-the-art galleys (kitchens), extensive entertainment systems and numerous other convenient features, many boats allow passengers to enjoy the comforts of home while on the water.
Learn the ropes. Getting started in boating can be simplified on DiscoverBoating.com, an unbiased resource with helpful information to chart your course. A boater education course, offered locally by marinas, dealers and the U.S. Coast Guard, is also a great way for you and your passengers to learn the rules of the water before stepping aboard.
Make new friends. More than 59 million American adults went boating in 2007*-- it’s an ideal way to meet other boaters passionate about their favorite leisure activity and ready to enjoy their time on the water. After all, the best days in a boater’s life are every Saturday and Sunday.
To find out more, visit www.DiscoverBoating.com or the Discover Boating Display at the Detroit Boat Show. For those interested in learning more about or shopping for a boat, the Detroit Boat Show offers a Discover Boating Center as well as hundreds of boats of all types and sizes to see and buy at great prices.
The 52nd annual Detroit Boat Show is February 13-21, 2010. Admission to the boat show is $12 for adults, children 12 and under are free with an adult, and seniors over 62 receive free admission on Monday. Parking is available at Cobo Center and surrounding lots. FOR MORE INFORMATION and discount tickets, visit www.detroitboatshow.net, or call the MBIA at 1.800.932.2628.
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