Cleveland Boat Show 2026: Your Guide to Ohio's Premier Boating Event

The Progressive Cleveland Boat Show returns to the I-X Center January 15-18, 2026, and if you're serious about Lake Erie boating, this is the show you can't miss. Now in its 69th year, it's Ohio's largest boat show with over 150 exhibitors and everything from fishing boats to cruisers.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or upgrading your current boat, here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Show Details

• When: January 15-18, 2026
• Where: I-X Center, 1 I-X Center Dr, Cleveland, OH 44135
• Hours: Thu/Fri 12pm-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-5pm
• Tickets: $20 adults, $60 family 4-pack, $15 military/seniors, Kids 6 & under FREE
• Parking: $7 (not included with admission)

Visit clevelandboatshow.com for tickets and the full exhibitor list.

What Makes This Year Special

The 2026 show has some unique attractions you won't want to miss:

Lyman Boat Museum - 150th Anniversary

For the first time since Lyman Boat Works closed, you'll see the most comprehensive display ever assembled—boats from every decade of production, authentic artifacts, and original blueprints. If you appreciate maritime history, this is a once-in-a-lifetime exhibit.

Lake Erie Fishing Seminars

The Toyota Fishing Stage features tournament pros and Lake Erie guides teaching walleye tactics, musky hunting, and how to use forward-facing sonar. These aren't generic fishing tips—this is real, local knowledge about fishing our waters.

Notable speakers include Captain Mark Cahlik on planer board techniques, LEWT tournament anglers on deep-water walleye, and Ryan Buddie from National Walleye Tour on understanding sonar.

Smart Buying Tips from a Local Broker

As Cleveland boat brokers, we've been to every show for years. Here's what actually works:

Don't Buy on Day One

Sunday afternoon is when the best deals happen. Dealers have quotas to hit, and they'd rather negotiate than load boats back on the truck. Scout the show early in the weekend, then close the deal on Sunday after 2pm.

Ask About the Total Price

The sticker price is just the starting point. Ask about dealer prep fees, rigging charges, delivery costs, and what's actually included. Get everything in writing before you commit.

Think Lake Erie-Specific

Not every boat handles Lake Erie conditions well. You need proper hull design for our chop, winterization capability for Cleveland winters, and beam dimensions that work with local marinas. Don't get distracted by flashy features that don't matter on the lake.

Get Pre-Approved for Financing

Walking in with financing already lined up gives you serious negotiating power. Dealers know you're ready to buy, not just browsing. For more questions on boat financing, check out our recent article for tips.

Why Work with Northern Boat Brokerage

Here's the truth: dealers at the show are incentivized to sell you what's on their floor. We're incentivized to find you the right boat, period.

Before the show: We'll help you identify exactly what to look for based on your Lake Erie plans.

At the show: Call or text us from the floor. We'll tell you if you're looking at a fair deal or if you should walk away.

After the show: Didn't find what you wanted? We'll source boats nationwide and handle all the paperwork, financing, surveys, and delivery.

We're Cleveland boaters helping Cleveland boaters. We know the local dealers, the marinas, and Lake Erie conditions. That local expertise matters.

What to Expect at the Show

You'll see boats ranging from 10 to 45+ feet—pontoons, fishing boats, center consoles, bowriders, cruisers, and PWC. There's also marine gear, accessories, dock systems, and everything else you need for the boating lifestyle.

Beyond the boats, there are interactive experiences like the Paddling Center (kayak and paddleboard demos), the Shores & Islands music stage, and the Progressive photo ops. The Boardwalk has food options including lobster bisque and coastal-inspired fare.

Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours if you're serious about buying. Wear comfortable shoes—you'll be walking.

Let's Make Your Boat Show Visit Count

The Cleveland Boat Show is the perfect place to start your boat search, but it can be overwhelming. That's where Northern Boat Brokerage comes in. We'll help you cut through the sales pitches and find a boat that actually fits your needs and budget.

Schedule a free pre-show consultation: We'll help you create a targeted shopping list before you even walk into the I-X Center.

Visit: www.northernboatbrokerage.com

See you at the show!