CLEVELAND – December 16, 2024
Ohio’s oldest and largest boat show, the Progressive Cleveland Boat Show, organized by the Ohio Marine Trades Association and presented by Toyota Tundra, will drop
anchor at the IX Center in Cleveland from Thursday, January 16 through Sunday, January 19, 2025.
More than 45,000 annual visitors can climb aboard a fleet of 300-plus new boats, surrounded by
hundreds of boating and fishing equipment displays and a record number of family-friendly events and
attractions. “We’re expanding the show in the new year to enable dealers from around the state to display
more boats from their current inventories, and to unveil the new 2025 models they are receiving from
manufacturers,” explains Michelle Burke, President of the Ohio Marine Trades Association.
Seasoned boaters, potential buyers and avid anglers will get a tiny taste of summer in January without
any threat of small craft advisories. The 2025 event promises to offer the best pricing and exclusive show-
only discounts attributed to higher dealer inventories, lower financing costs, exclusive manufacturer “buy
now” promotions and rebate offers. In addition to early bird pricing, discounted boating accessories,
value-added services and package deals combining dockage with winter storage at reduced pricing will
be available.
Burke continued, “A common myth about boating expenses is that owning a boat is inherently expensive
and unattainable for most people. In 2025, educational seminars called Boat Buying 101 will be offered
where industry experts will dispel common myths around buying and owning a boat and unveil ways first-
time boat buyers can keep costs in check.”
But if you’re looking for an activity that delivers rewards beyond just the enjoyment of the activity, try
boating. “Beyond the recreational aspects, boating is a great way to spend time and make memories with
your family, it has also been shown to reduce stress levels and enhance mental well-being. That is why
this year’s theme is “Buy the Boat” – we want to illustrate how it allows individuals, couples and families to
unwind and recharge while fostering a sense of harmony and balance – both on and off the water,”
explains Burke.
For those not ready to buy a boat, the show offers newcomers a chance to explore the boating lifestyle –
from hundred-dollar paddleboards to million-dollar yachts, visitors will experience dozens of hands-on
activities, interactive and electronic displays, live performances and demonstrations, musical
entertainment and much more.
“Boating is a family experience, and that’s why our show is experiential,” Burke promises. “From our
special On-The-Water-Ohio Kids Discovery Zone to seeing live paddleboard and kayak demos in our
Paddling Pool, you’ll get the feeling it’s summer in January. Daily performances by the world-famous
Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel will also be on deck.”
Be sure to visit America’s Boating Club where visitors can experience a triple-screen Docking Simulator,
and the Cleveland Amateur Boatbuilders Society (CABBS) – celebrating a shared a passion for building,
sailing, paddling, and motoring in boats.
The fishing area of the show boasts a fleet of fishing craft, ranging from special fish-equipped kayaks to
40-foot-plus triple-outboards center consoles, all alongside major fishing tackle and equipment exhibits. In
addition, top pros from the Lake Erie Walleye Trail will appear daily on the Toyota Tundra Fishing Stage,
while even more angling demonstrations take place atop the unique 5,000-gallon glass-sided, fish-filled,
Vic’s Sportscenter Berkley Bass Aquarium.
For additional event information including show hours, FAQs, ticket sales and more, visit
clevelandboatshow.com.
About the Ohio Marine Trades Association
The Ohio Marine Trades Association organizes the Progressive Cleveland Boat Show and is dedicated to promoting
and protecting the interests of the marine industry in Ohio. By hosting events like this, the association supports local
businesses and fosters a love of boating across the state.
Media Contact:
Todd Sheppard
Whistle Communications
todd@whistlepr.com
440.308.8868
