Over 100 boats and power toys were on display at the Century Center Saturday for the Michiana Boat Show.
People were out ready to buy and Fays Marina Owner, Ed Fay says that's a trend that the boating industry expects to continue through the year.
Boat show attendee Nikolai Wilchewsky and his wife are in the market for a boat. "I'm ready to retire," said Wilchewsky. So he's looking for something that will combine his love of fishing with his new desire for exercise. "Two years ago I had a heart attack," said Wilchewsky
He says a paddle boat will get his heart pumping more than his bicycle.
He's not the only one who's decided now is the time to buy a boat. Show attendee Randy Byerly said, "we just came out to take a look at some new boats and hopefully get a bigger one." He said his current boat is too small.
Fay said no matter what their reasons are several people are choosing to purchase boats this year. "Sales have been much stronger than they've been in the past three years," said Fay.
That's been evident in Chicago, South Bend, and every boat show he's gone to, "the last three boat shows we've been at have been much better than years past."
Fay thinks it's because people are ready to spend, "we believe that people have been tired of waiting for things to get better they've held off fun held off doing things so that compressed sales has been exploding."
He adds that people seem to have a more optimistic view on the economy and are changing how they handle their money. "They're not getting a big return on their savings so they're investing in the things that are important for their family," said Fay. So he's got high expectations for his business for 2012.
The Michiana Boat Show continues at the Century Center Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
It's five dollars for parking but admission to the show is free. And the first 50 people to show up will get free beach bags.
