If you love boats, water sports, or simply enjoy seeing new gear and technology, the New England Boat Show is a can’t-miss winter event in Boston. Held at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) in the Seaport area, the show brings a summer-feel indoors and gives visitors a full taste of boating culture: hundreds of boats, live demos, seminars, accessories, and family-friendly activities. This guide combines everything you need to know before you go — dates, tickets, transport, food, what to pack, and a practical sample plan so you can make the most of your visit.
Quick snapshot — the basics
- Event: New England Boat Show 2026
- Dates: January 7–11, 2026 (confirm on the official site before you travel)
- Venue: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC), 415 Summer St, Boston, MA
- Typical hours: Wed–Fri afternoons and evenings, Sat–Sun earlier start and earlier close (check exact times before you go)
- Ticketing: Adult tickets around $20 (children 12 and under commonly free with a paying adult); online ticket purchase is recommended and often required.
- Accessibility & family: Strollers allowed, backpacks allowed (subject to security checks), pets are not allowed.
Now let’s dig into the details so your visit can be relaxed, fun, and well planned.
Why the New England Boat Show is worth attending
First, it’s huge. The show often features more than 500 boats of every type — from compact kayaks and fishing boats to large family cruisers and luxury yachts. That alone is a draw: even if you’re not planning to buy a boat, walking through a hall full of boats is a great way to see the latest trends, ask manufacturers questions, and compare styles up close.
Second, the show is a full experience. Beyond the boats, you’ll find technology demos (electronics, navigation, and engine tech), fishing seminars, safety and boating-education sessions, live paddle-board or water demonstrations in indoor pools, makers and accessory vendors, and social areas with music and seating. It’s part tradeshow, part festival, and very family-friendly — which makes it ideal for a day out in winter when outdoor options are limited.
Tickets and buying advice
Buy tickets online before you go. The official site is the safest place for tickets and will have the most current pricing and any discount offers. Tickets purchased in advance often save you time waiting in lines and sometimes come with a small discount. Group discounts may be available for parties of 10 or more — useful if you’re bringing a club, office group, or big family.
Standard admission usually covers access to boats, demonstrations, seminars, and most features inside the show. There are rarely extra charges for the main live demos or seminar sessions, but some premium workshops or vendor-led private sessions might carry a fee — check the schedule in advance.
What you’ll see inside
Expect to spend hours exploring. The event typically includes:
- Hundreds of boats: everything from inflatables and sailboats to luxury motor yachts. Many exhibitors allow visitors to step onboard so you can inspect cabins, cockpits, and layouts.
- Marine tech & accessories: GPS systems, fishfinders, new outboard and inboard engines, marine audio, lighting, safety gear, and eco-friendly/electric propulsion demonstrations.
- Demo areas: indoor paddle pools, small-boat demo zones, and places to test kayaks or paddleboards in a controlled environment.
- Workshops & seminars: boating safety, maintenance tips, fishing techniques, navigation basics, and new product overviews.
- Retailers & services: boat insurance, financing, marina membership info, accessories, clothing, and fishing gear.
- Family activities: kids’ zones, fishing simulators, educational booths, and hands-on experiences that are designed to keep young visitors engaged.
Food, comfort, and on-site services
The BCEC houses food courts and vendor stands so you won’t need to leave the building for meals. Food options are varied — sandwiches, pizzas, salads, coffee, snacks, and seasonal comfort foods — plus vegetarian and some gluten-free choices. Expect lines at peak times, especially lunchtime and late afternoon. If you want to skip the rush, try eating earlier (around 11:30 am) or later in the afternoon.
There are rest areas and seating spaces around the show. If you need medical assistance, there will be event staff and first-aid points — ask at an information desk.
What to bring — the practical packing list
- Comfortable walking shoes — the show is large and you’ll be on your feet a lot.
- Small backpack — for brochures, flyers, a water bottle, and any small purchases. Backpacks are allowed but may be checked at security.
- Reusable water bottle — yes, there are places to refill.
- Phone and power bank — you’ll want to take photos and notes, and battery drains fast when using maps or downloading files.
- Notebook or note-taking app — jot down model numbers, vendor names, and prices if you’re seriously researching boats.
- Photo ID & payment method — vendors may ask for ID for test rides or certain offers; many vendors accept cards but having a small amount of cash can be handy.
- Light jacket — Boston is chilly in January; inside the exhibition may be warm, but you’ll need a jacket for outside and when walking to the car.
- Children’s items if you’re bringing kids — snacks, a small pack of wipes, and stroller supplies (strollers are permitted).
Rules and safety
- No pets (dogs are not allowed, even in carriers).
- Strollers are allowed, but be mindful in crowded aisles.
- Boarding boats is usually allowed but at the discretion of the exhibitor. Follow crew instructions and safety ropes.
- Security checks: expect bag checks and metal detectors in some years depending on security policies.
Getting there and parking
The BCEC is in the Seaport District and is well served by roadways and public transit. Parking is available at the convention center and nearby lots but expect event-day parking fees (historically around $20–$30 depending on the lot). Parking garages can fill up fast during busy hours, so plan ahead.
If you want convenience, especially when arriving from Logan Airport or traveling with family and luggage, a private car service is a smart choice. A reliable Boston airport car service can pick you up inside the airport, drop you at the BCEC door, and return you comfortably after the show. Using such a service reduces the stress of parking and navigating winter roads.
For city locals, public transit is a cost-effective option — the MBTA Silver Line serves the Seaport area and is linked to other transit lines. Check transit schedules for weekend service times.
Why a car service makes sense
Beyond door-to-door convenience, a car service is helpful if you’re carrying brochures, gear, or considering purchases that are cumbersome to carry on public transit. If you have mobility concerns or simply prefer a no-hassle arrival and departure, arranging a drop-off with a Boston airport car service or local shuttle can save time and make the day more relaxed.
Tips for families and groups
- Plan meeting points in advance in case you get separated — the show is large.
- Use wristbands or ID cards for young children with parent contact details.
- Bring snacks for kids to avoid long lines; still, try the food vendors for a treat lunch.
- Check the schedule for kid-friendly workshops and demos — some sessions are designed for children.
Sample one-day itinerary
If you only have one day, here’s a simple plan to get the most out of your visit:
Morning (10:00–12:00)
- Arrive early to beat lines. Grab your tickets and a floor map. Walk the main aisles to get an overview. Visit the biggest boat displays first while energy is high.
Lunch (12:00–1:00)
- Head to the food court. Try a local comfort dish and use the time to plan afternoon sessions.
Afternoon (1:00–4:00)
- Attend a seminar (safety, engine tech, or buying tips). Visit demo pools or test small craft if available. Talk to dealers about model specs and pricing.
Late afternoon (4:00–6:00)
- Revisit boats you liked and gather brochures. If you plan to buy or finance, speak with insurance and finance booths.
Evening (6:00+)
- If you have energy, pop back to any vendor for questions. Head to nearby Seaport restaurants for dinner or return home with easy transport.
Nearby things to do after the show
If you want to extend your day, the Seaport area has attractions within walking distance: Harpoon Brewery (tour and beer hall), the Institute of Contemporary Art, waterfront promenades, and several good restaurants. These are great for winding down and soaking up the city’s winter charm.
Final words — enjoy the show!
The New England Boat Show is a lively, optimistic reminder of warm days ahead on the water. Whether you’re a boating veteran, a first-timer curious about the lifestyle, or someone looking for a fun indoor winter outing, the show offers a bit of everything: eye candy in the form of beautiful boats, practical learning through seminars, and a marketplace of accessories and services. Plan ahead for tickets and transport, pack comfortable shoes, and come ready to explore. With the right preparation, you’ll leave inspired, informed, and with plenty of ideas for the coming boating season.