For the third year in a row, NMTA hired GMA Research, a leading consumer research firm based in Bellevue, WA, to conduct extensive research about the 2025 Seattle Boat Show.

In addition to the extraordinary Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 80% that we shared in the last edition of WaterLife, here are five key takeaways from the research:

 

  1. The show continues to attract new/first time guests with over 20% telling us it is their first time at the show.  The additional good news is with a very high NPS, they will likely be back again next year. 

  2. The show is an event to enjoy with friends and family.  Over 85% of guests attend with someone else. 

  3. Guest satisfaction continues to grow each year with 86% giving a rating of being very satisfied with their experience. 

  4. Maximizing the guest experience is key to the overall show experience and the show delivers with over 90% saying their expectations were met or exceeded.

The top five critical motivators for guests to attend the show include seeking information, seeing what’s new and trending, looking for a new boat and accessories, searching for special offerings and pricing and, very importantly, having fun with friends and family.