The 2009 Newport International Boat Show has come and gone, and it was a big change from last year. The mood in 2008 was already cautious, and when Lehman Brothers collapsed on the last day of the show it didn't exactly lift spirits.
Fortunately, this year's show arrived on a rising tide of economic optimism, and attendees were clearly in a better mood. I can't speak for everyone, but I have more prospects for new boat sales this winter than last.
The in-water portion of the show was noticeably smaller than last year, with fewer boats on display. But the McMichael crew was busy with the debut of FOUR brand new models, plus the full fleet of Alerion Express yachts.
The Summit 35 from designer Mark Mills hit the water just in time for the show, and build quality (from Edgewater in Florida) was excellent. Designer Mark Mills was on hand to discuss how owners could further optimize this IRC-rocket for their particular sailing venue. The Summit 35's big sister, the King 40, was at the show as well.
J/Boats has continued their tradition of bringing innovation to a lagging market, with the arrival of the first J/97 racer/cruiser from France, and the J/95 keel/centerboard daysailor. A beautiful Stars & Stripes blue J/100 was also on hand. Since all three boats are between 31 and 33 feet, the most common question at the J booth was "How are these different?" Here's a quick answer:
J/97
Fortunately, this year's show arrived on a rising tide of economic optimism, and attendees were clearly in a better mood. I can't speak for everyone, but I have more prospects for new boat sales this winter than last.
The in-water portion of the show was noticeably smaller than last year, with fewer boats on display. But the McMichael crew was busy with the debut of FOUR brand new models, plus the full fleet of Alerion Express yachts.
The Summit 35 from designer Mark Mills hit the water just in time for the show, and build quality (from Edgewater in Florida) was excellent. Designer Mark Mills was on hand to discuss how owners could further optimize this IRC-rocket for their particular sailing venue. The Summit 35's big sister, the King 40, was at the show as well.
J/Boats has continued their tradition of bringing innovation to a lagging market, with the arrival of the first J/97 racer/cruiser from France, and the J/95 keel/centerboard daysailor. A beautiful Stars & Stripes blue J/100 was also on hand. Since all three boats are between 31 and 33 feet, the most common question at the J booth was "How are these different?" Here's a quick answer:
J/97
A truly dual-purpose boat with the potential for racing at the most competitive level, as well as comfortable cruising for a small family - full galley, enclosed aft cabin, great interior.
J/95
A keel/centerboard daysailor for those that want J-level performance, but the ability to sail or dock the boat in just 3 feet of water. Spacious and ergonomic cockpit with wheel steering and plenty or room to move around.J/100 - The purist's daysailor: very fast, very simple, with tiller steering and a carbon rig for an optimal sailing experience.
Finally, the MJM booth proudly displayed the new 40z. This one has been out for awhile but was making her first boat show appearance in the Northeast, to rave reviews.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by, especially the ones who mentioned this blog! You know who you are...
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