The Jacksonville Boat Show is a great smaller boat show for boaters in Northeast Florida, offering a variety of boats, family-friendly activities, and a chance to connect with local dealers. Though the show is relatively small, it has a great selection of fishing boats, pontoons, and other popular models. Here are some of the best boats to see at the Jacksonville Boat Show and a few reasons why this event is worth attending.
Pontoon Boats at the Jacksonville Boat Show
Bennington is known for producing some of the most luxurious and comfortable pontoon boats on the market. Their Quad Bench Pontoon is a standout, offering spacious seating, plush upholstery, and room for all your family and friends to spread out. Known for high-end finishes and durability, Bennington’s pontoons are perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon Highlights
- Passenger Capacity: Seats up to 12 people comfortably
- Starting Price: Around $40,000, depending on customizations
- Features: Soft-touch seating, customizable layouts, premium sound system, ample storage
- Popular Models: Bennington Q Line, R Bowrider Line, S Line, SV Line
If you’re part of Freedom Boat Club they have plenty of pontoons to try out and the selection of boats for Northeast Florida is very good.
Sea-Doo Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Sea-Doo has been a leader in personal watercraft for decades, offering some of the most reliable and fun options available. The Sea-Doo Spark is particularly popular at boat shows because it’s light, agile, and easy to handle, making it suitable for all experience levels.
Sea-Doo Spark Highlights
- Engine Options: Available in 60 HP and 90 HP options
- Starting Price: Around $5,699 for the base model
- Features: Lightweight body, easily maneuverable, low maintenance, comes in multiple color options
- Best For: Families and beginners looking for an affordable, fun PWC
Sea-Doo’s Spark combines affordability with high performance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking adventure without breaking the bank.
Key West Center Console Fishing Boats
Key West is a household name for anyone familiar with center consoles. They are known for creating durable boats perfect for fishing and family outings. The Key West 239 DFS is a popular choice for small families thanks to its roomy layout and excellent fishing capabilities. The Key West 239 FS is another solid option for those who want more fishing capabilities.
Key West 239 DFS Highlights
- Passenger Capacity: Seats up to 8 people
- Starting Price: Around $80,000
- Features: Ample storage, comfortable seating, live well, T-top for sun protection
- Best For: Families who want a boat that’s suitable for both fishing and leisure
Key West boats are designed with family and fishing in mind, offering stability, safety, and enough space for everyone.
Caymas Boats
Caymas Boats is relatively new to the market, founded in 2018 by industry veteran Earl Bentz, but has quickly made waves with their hybrid fishing boats and catamarans. Their Caymas 30 CT model is a great example of a well-thought-out fishing catamaran, combining stability with fishing-friendly features, thanks to its catamaran-style hull.
Caymas 30 CT Highlights
- Hull Style: Catamaran hull for increased stability
- Starting Price: Around $175,000
- Features: Wide beam, advanced fishing electronics, large casting deck, ample storage
- Pros: Stable in rough waters, great for offshore fishing, lots of space
- Cons: Limited maneuverability in shallow water, higher initial price, different characteristics than a traditional mono hull
If you’re looking for a durable, fishing-focused vessel with competitive pricing, Caymas Boats is worth a close look.
Car Boats
The Car Boats are a rare, eye-catching exhibit at the Jacksonville Boat Show. Car boats are designed for calmer waters and for someone who is interested in a fun smaller boat. The Corvette Boat is one of the more popular options you can find. Inspired by the iconic sports car, this jet car
Corvette Boat Highlights
- Design Inspiration: Chevrolet Corvette
- Best For: Leisure cruising on calm lakes and rivers
- Features: Sleek, sporty look, powerful engine, fun to drive
- Fun Factor: Speeds of up to 65 MPH
While it may not be practical for all boaters, the Corvette Boat is undoubtedly one of the coolest things to see at the show.
Local Dealers
One of the benefits of the Jacksonville Boat Show is the opportunity to connect with local dealers who cater to the waters of Northeast Florida. Local dealers not only know which boats are best suited for the region’s waters but are also accessible for post-purchase support, maintenance, and service.
Why Connect with Local Dealers?
- Support Local Businesses: Get a better experience with someone local, maintenance is easier to deal with
- Expertise in Local Waters: Familiar with our waters in Northeast Florida, St. Johns and Intracoastal
- Convenience: Easier access to follow-up maintenance, service, and advice
Meeting with local dealers can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to boating or unfamiliar with the area’s waters.
Family Activities at the Boat Show
The Jacksonville Boat Show is designed to be family-friendly, with activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day. There are hands-on knot-tying demos, mini fishing clinics, and scavenger hunts that introduce children to the basics of boating, fishing, and marine life in a fun, relaxed environment.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Kids’ Seminars: Boating safety, knot-tying, and beginner fishing clinics
- Interactive Exhibits: Fun, hands-on activities and games for all ages
- Parent-Friendly Amenities: Seating areas and some food vendors
The family-friendly atmosphere makes this show a great option for introducing kids to boating, while parents can sit in on seminars or check out the latest marine gear.
Jacksonville Boat Show Tickets
Tickets for the Jacksonville Boat Show are affordably priced and only need one day to explore.
Ticket Information
- Adult Admission: $15
- Children (ages 5-12): Free
- Seniors (55+): Free
- Military and First Responders: $12
- Parking: $10 per day per vehicle
With reasonable ticket prices and free admission for kids and seniors, it’s an event that offers great value for a full day of entertainment.
Affordable Fishing Boats in Jacksonville
The Jacksonville Boat Show offers some of the best starter fishing boats you can find with some good discounts, local dealers, and specific boats tailored to our area. This show is a great place to find well-priced boats for St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterways.