The Discover Boating Atlantic City Boat Show | February 25 – March 1, 2026
The Discover Boating Atlantic City Boat Show is one of the largest indoor boat shows in the Northeast, returning to the Atlantic City Convention Center for five days of boats, gear, fishing demos, and family fun. Whether you’re shopping for your first boat, comparing models before the season, or just looking for a great day out with the family, this guide covers everything you need to know—including a few things most guides leave out.
General Information
Q: What are the dates and hours for the Atlantic City Boat Show?
A: The show runs Wednesday, February 25 through Sunday, March 1, 2026. Hours vary by day:
- Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
If you want smaller crowds and more one-on-one time with dealers, aim for a weekday afternoon. Saturday is the busiest day by far.
Q: Where is the Atlantic City Boat Show held?
A: It takes place at the Atlantic City Convention Center, located at 1 Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401. The show is on the second floor of the convention center.
Q: Is the show indoors, outdoors, or in-water?
A: The Atlantic City Boat Show is entirely indoors, which means weather is never a concern. You’ll find boats displayed on the convention center floor where you can climb aboard, inspect, and compare side by side. There are no in-water displays at this show—for that, check out the separate Atlantic City In-Water Power Boat Show held in September at Farley State Marina.
Q: Is this a new-boat or used-boat show?
A: The show is primarily new boats. Dealers and manufacturers bring their latest models, often debuting 2026 and early 2027 designs. You may find some pre-owned inventory through select dealers, but the focus is on new vessels and show-only pricing.
Q: What types of boats will be on display?
A: Expect to see close to 500 boats on the show floor, including:
- Center consoles (from bay boats to offshore models)
- Pontoons and deck boats
- Bowriders and runabouts
- Wake and ski boats
- Cabin cruisers
- Luxury yachts
- Personal watercraft (jet skis, wave runners)
- Fishing boats (bass, flats, sportfishing)
- Kayaks and paddleboards
You’ll also find a 95,000-square-foot Marine Marketplace with marine electronics, engines, navigation gear, fishing tackle, safety equipment, apparel, and nautical gifts.
Tickets and Entry
Q: How much are tickets for the Atlantic City Boat Show?
A: Tickets are $20 for adults. Children 12 and under get in free when accompanied by a paying adult. Group discounts kick in when you buy 3 or more tickets together, with escalating savings the more you buy.
Q: Where can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online at ACBoatShow.com—that’s the only authorized ticket source. Buy in advance to save time at the door. There is no box office guarantee, so don’t count on buying at the gate.
Q: Are there any free or discounted admission days?
A: Yes. On Wednesday, February 25 (opening day), active and retired military personnel and first responders receive free admission with a valid ID.
Q: Can I leave and re-enter the show on the same day?
A: Yes. Keep your ticket or wristband for same-day re-entry. This is handy if you want to grab lunch at one of Atlantic City’s Boardwalk restaurants and come back refreshed.
Q: Is there a VIP or preview ticket option?
A: The show offers a Captain’s Table Gala on Thursday evening, which is a separate ticketed charity event benefiting the Community Foodbank of New Jersey and Let Us Eat, Please, Inc. Check the show website closer to the event for pricing and availability. There isn’t a traditional VIP preview day, but Wednesday’s noon opening with lighter crowds serves a similar purpose for serious buyers.
Parking, Transportation, and Amenities
Q: Where do I park, and what does it cost?
A: On-site parking is available directly at the Atlantic City Convention Center for $20 per day. The lot is adjacent to the building, so you won’t have a long walk.
Q: Can I take public transit to the show?
A: Yes, and this is actually one of the best-kept tips for this show. The NJ Transit Atlantic City Rail Line terminal is directly adjacent to the convention center. If you’re coming from the Philadelphia area, it’s a convenient and traffic-free option. The Atlantic City Bus Terminal is also nearby.
Q: Is the show accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
A: Yes. The convention center is fully ADA accessible with elevators, ramps, and wide aisles. Some boats may have limited access due to steps or ladders, but the show floor itself is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
Q: Are food and drinks available at the show?
A: Yes. There are concessions inside the convention center, and the Discover Boating Beach Club area offers cocktails, mocktails, and a lounge atmosphere with beach games and music. Atlantic City also has dozens of restaurants within walking distance, including Boardwalk dining and casino resort options.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: No. Service animals are permitted, but pets are not allowed inside the convention center.
What to See and Do
Q: What are the must-see attractions at the 2026 show?
A: Beyond the boats themselves, the 2026 Atlantic City Boat Show has several standout features:
- Discover Boating Beach Club – A beach-themed lounge with music, games, cocktails, and mocktails. Great for taking a break between boat browsing.
- Fred’s Shed How-To Center (presented by Progressive) – Hands-on demonstrations covering boat maintenance, engine care, systems troubleshooting, and DIY tips. Bring your ownership questions here.
- Indoor Paddle Pool – Guests ages 10 and up can try kayaking and paddleboarding in an on-site demo pool. One of the few boat shows where you can actually get on the water (sort of).
- Art of Casting Pond – Practice your casting technique with live demonstrations and free instruction.
- Fishing Seminars – Free sessions covering offshore angling, striped bass techniques, jigging, and more. Hosted by industry experts throughout the show.
- Sand Art – A professional sand sculptor creates a live piece during the event.
- Build-A-Boat (Kids) – Children can build their own toy boat to take home as a souvenir. Check the posted schedule for session times.
- Fishing Frenzy Game – A kid-friendly activity that introduces young visitors to the fundamentals of casting and targeting.
- Virtual Reality Stations – Tweens and teens can explore digital boating and marine adventure scenarios.
Q: Are there seminars or educational sessions?
A: Yes, and they’re free with your admission. Seminar topics typically include offshore fishing tactics, boat maintenance basics, casting clinics, and boating safety. The Annapolis School of Seamanship has historically offered 2-hour interactive workshops on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings before the show opens—check the show schedule for this year’s offerings.
Q: Is there a show map or mobile app?
A: A show map and exhibitor directory are available on the official website at ACBoatShow.com. Download or screenshot it before you go so you can plan your route and prioritize the brands and boat types you want to see.
Exhibitors and Boats
Q: Which brands and dealers will be at the show?
A: The Atlantic City Boat Show features hundreds of exhibitors including both regional dealers and national manufacturers. In past years, brands like Sportsman, Valhalla, Bennington, Godfrey, Formula, Cigarette Racing, and MarineMax have had a presence. A full list of boats is published on ACBoatShow.com as the show date approaches.
Q: Will there be in-water displays or demo rides?
A: No. This is an indoor, dry-land show. All boats are displayed on the convention center floor. You can climb aboard, sit at the helm, open hatches, check storage, and inspect everything—but there are no water demos. The Indoor Paddle Pool is the closest thing to on-water experience at this show. For in-water boat shopping, the Atlantic City In-Water Power Boat Show takes place in September.
Q: Are accessories, electronics, and gear vendors present?
A: Absolutely. The Marine Marketplace covers roughly 95,000 square feet and features marine electronics, GPS and navigation systems, fishing gear and tackle, safety equipment, boat lifts, engines, apparel, and nautical gifts. Many vendors offer show-only discounts.
Buying, Deals, and Services
Q: Are there special show deals or discounts?
A: Yes. Many dealers offer show-only pricing, package deals, and manufacturer incentives that aren’t available at other times of year. Boat shows typically happen before the boating season ramps up, so manufacturers and dealers are motivated to lock in sales. If you’re seriously shopping, this is one of the best times to negotiate.
Q: Can I buy a boat at the show?
A: Yes. You can start or complete a purchase right on the show floor. Most dealers have sales teams and financing representatives available. That said, most boats aren’t taken home same-day. Expect a process that includes paperwork, financing approval, and delivery scheduling—usually within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Q: Is financing available at the show?
A: Yes. Multiple lenders and marine finance representatives set up at the show. You can discuss terms, get pre-approved, and compare rates in person. Some dealers also have their own in-house financing teams. Come prepared with a general sense of your budget and credit situation.
Q: Can I get my trade-in evaluated?
A: Many dealers will discuss trade-ins and provide preliminary valuations during the show. Bring photos, maintenance records, and key specs of your current boat to get the most accurate assessment.
Policies and Comfort
Q: What should I wear and bring?
A: The show is entirely indoors, so dress comfortably and in layers (convention centers can vary in temperature). The most important tip: wear comfortable shoes that slip on and off easily. Most exhibitors ask you to remove your shoes or use shoe covers before boarding boats—you’ll be doing this dozens of times. Bring a small bag or backpack for collecting brochures, business cards, and free swag.
Q: Do I need to remove my shoes to board boats?
A: In most cases, yes. Exhibitors keep their display boats in showroom condition, so expect to take your shoes off or wear provided shoe covers. Wear clean socks you’re comfortable walking around in.
Q: Does the show happen rain or shine?
A: Yes—and this is one of the advantages of an indoor show. Rain, snow, cold—none of it matters. The entire Atlantic City Boat Show is under one roof.
New Jersey Boating License & Education Requirements
This is one of the most common questions new boaters have after visiting a boat show—and one that most show guides completely ignore.
Q: Do I need a boating license in New Jersey?
A: Yes. New Jersey requires all operators of motorized vessels (including jet skis and wave runners) to hold a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate. This applies on both tidal and non-tidal waters. If you plan to boat on non-tidal waters (lakes, rivers, creeks without tidal influence), you also need a separate boat license endorsement on your NJ driver’s license or state ID—this is an additional requirement on top of the safety certificate.
Q: How do I get a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate?
A: You must complete a boating safety course approved by the New Jersey State Police, then pass an in-person proctored exam. The course portion can be done online through approved providers like Boat-Ed, BoaterExam, or Ace Boater (typically $35–$40). After completing the online portion, you have up to one year to take the in-person exam. The certificate is good for life once issued.
We are partnered with Ace Boater to give you $5 off your boating safety course with code “BOATINGLESSONS”.
Sign up here.
Q: What are the age requirements?
A: The rules break down by age:
- Under 13: Cannot operate any motorized vessel in NJ.
- Ages 13–15: May operate only vessels with electric motors or boats 12+ feet with less than 10 HP, after completing the safety course. No PWC operation allowed.
- 16 and older: May operate all power vessels and PWC after completing the safety course.
Q: I’m visiting from out of state. Do I still need NJ certification?
A: If you’re visiting for fewer than 90 days, you can operate a power vessel in NJ if you carry a boating safety certificate from your home state (must be NASBLA-approved) or a USCG Captain’s license. If you’ll be in NJ longer than 90 days, you need a New Jersey-specific certificate.
Q: What happens if I boat without the certificate?
A: Operating a powerboat without a NJ Boating Safety Certificate carries a minimum $100 fine and a maximum $500 fine. Failing to carry or show a boat license on non-tidal waters can result in up to $500 in fines and up to 60 days imprisonment.
Q: Can hands-on boating lessons count toward my education?
A: The NJ Boating Safety Certificate requires completing a specific state-approved course and exam. However, on-water training with a licensed captain is one of the most effective ways to build real-world skills that the classroom course doesn’t cover—like docking, anchoring, reading water conditions, and handling your specific boat. Many new boat owners pair the state certification with hands-on captain-led instruction to build true confidence before heading out solo.
BoatingLessons.com connects you with licensed, experienced captains in New Jersey area who can teach you on your own boat or theirs. Whether you need help fulfilling your state education requirement or want hands-on training after buying a boat at the show, our local captains know these waters and can get you ready for the season.
Need help finding a Captain Near You? Here are some of the areas we cover:
Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Avon-by-the-Sea, Barnegat Light, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Brant Beach, Brick, Brielle, Brigantine, Camden, Cape May, Elizabeth, Harvey Cedars, Hazlet, Highlands, Jersey City, Keansburg, Keyport, Lavallette, Manasquan, Matawan, Middletown, Neptune City, North Plainfield, Ocean City, Perth Amboy, Point Pleasant Beach, Sea Girt, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, South Amboy, South River, Spring Lake, Toms River, Tuckerton, Union Beach and Wildwood
Where to Boat Near Atlantic City: Top Local Waterways
Dreaming about where you’ll take that new boat? Here are the top spots near the show.
1. Great Egg Harbor Bay & River
- Type: Bay / River (tidal)
- Best for: Fishing, crabbing, kayaking, casual cruising
- Distance from show: ~15 miles southwest
- A beautiful, protected waterway popular with anglers targeting flounder, striped bass, and blue crabs. Calm conditions make it great for newer boaters building confidence.
2. Absecon Bay & Inlet
- Type: Bay / Inlet (tidal)
- Best for: Fishing, cruising, access to the Atlantic Ocean
- Distance from show: ~5 miles
- Right in Atlantic City’s backyard. The inlet provides direct ocean access for offshore fishing, while the bay offers calmer waters for cruising and sightseeing. Watch for strong currents at the inlet—this is where some training with a local captain really pays off.
3. Atlantic City Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)
- Type: Intracoastal (tidal)
- Best for: Cruising, fishing, sightseeing, restaurant hopping by boat
- Distance from show: ~2 miles
- The ICW runs behind the barrier islands and offers protected cruising with access to marinas, waterside restaurants, and fuel docks. A perfect “first trip” waterway for new boat owners.
4. Barnegat Bay
- Type: Bay (tidal)
- Best for: Sailing, fishing, watersports, family cruising
- Distance from show: ~45 miles north
- One of the Jersey Shore’s most popular boating destinations. Shallow in spots, so local knowledge matters. Great for crabbing, clamming, and summer cruising.
5. Cape May Harbor
- Type: Harbor / Ocean access (tidal)
- Best for: Offshore fishing, whale watching, cruising
- Distance from show: ~45 miles south
- A premier departure point for deep-sea fishing charters and offshore runs. The harbor itself is scenic and well-protected.
New to boating in South Jersey? Our local captains know these waters inside and out—the channels, the shoals, the current patterns, and the best spots for every type of boating. A few hours on the water with a captain before you head out solo can save you thousands in potential mistakes and give you confidence money can’t buy.
Gain confidence with a boating lesson in New Jersey.
The Real Cost of Boat Ownership (Beyond the Show Price)
Show-only deals are exciting, but the sticker price is just the beginning. Here’s what to budget for in your first year as a boat owner.
| Expense | Annual Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance | $500 – $3,000+ | Varies by boat size, value, and use |
| Slip / Storage | $1,200 – $24,000+ | South Jersey marinas range widely; trailer storage is cheaper |
| Maintenance (10% rule) | ~10% of purchase price | Engine service, bottom paint, zincs, winterization |
| Fuel | $500 – $5,000+ | Depends on engine type and how often you go out |
| Registration & Taxes (NJ) | $100 – $1,500+ | NJ sales tax applies; annual registration fees vary by length |
| Safety Equipment | $200 – $800 | PFDs, fire extinguisher, flares, first aid, horn |
| Boating Education / Training | $40 – $1,500 | State course ~$40; on-water captain training $150–$300/session |
The industry rule of thumb is that annual operating costs run about 10% of your boat’s purchase price. A $40,000 boat will likely cost $3,000–$5,000 per year to own and maintain. This isn’t meant to discourage you—it’s meant to help you plan realistically so you can enjoy the water without financial stress.
Bought a Boat at the Show? Your 30-Day Roadmap
Congratulations! Here’s exactly what to do in the first month to make sure your maiden voyage is safe, fun, and stress-free.
Week 1: Paperwork & Protection
- Complete NJ title transfer and vessel registration
- Get boat insurance (required by most marinas before you can dock)
- Secure a slip, mooring, or storage arrangement
- Order your NJ registration numbers and decals
Week 2: Gear & Safety
- Purchase required safety equipment: USCG-approved PFDs for every passenger, a throwable Type IV PFD (boats 16ft+), fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, and a horn or whistle
- Install any electronics or accessories purchased at the show
- Create a pre-departure checklist specific to your boat
Week 3: Training & Confidence
- Complete your NJ Boating Safety
- Certificate if you haven’t already
- Book 2–3 on-water lessons with a licensed captain to learn your specific boat
- Practice docking, anchoring, and basic maneuvering in calm, protected waters
- Learn your boat’s systems: bilge pump, VHF radio, navigation lights, engine trim
Week 4: First Real Trip
- Plan a short maiden voyage in familiar, calm waters (the ICW is perfect for this)
- Bring an experienced boater or captain along for your first outing
- File a float plan with someone on shore
- Build confidence with progressively longer trips before heading offshore
The fastest way to go from “new boat owner” to “confident captain” is hands-on training on YOUR boat with a licensed instructor. BoatingLessons.com connects you with experienced captains in the Atlantic City area who specialize in new-owner training—from docking basics to offshore navigation. [Book Your First Lesson →]
Quick Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
- Go on a weekday if possible. Wednesday and Thursday have the lightest crowds and the most available dealer attention.
- Wear shoes that slip on and off easily. You’ll board dozens of boats and most require shoe removal.
- Bring a bag. You’ll collect brochures, business cards, and swag.
- Download the show map before you arrive. Plan your route around the brands and boat types you care about most.
- Eat before or plan a break. The convention center has concessions, but Atlantic City’s restaurants are steps away.
- Take the train if coming from Philly. NJ Transit drops you right at the convention center—no parking hassle.
- Bring a notebook or use your phone. Take notes on every boat you sit in. After the 15th boat, they all start to blur.
- Ask dealers about total cost of ownership. Don’t just ask the sticker price—ask about insurance, maintenance, storage, and training.
- Don’t impulse buy. Show deals are real, but so is buyer’s remorse. Take a night to think before committing.
- Ask about boating education. If you’re new, find out what NJ requires and how the dealer can help you get trained.
