Boat show basics
An educated eye can be your trusted tool in selecting a quality boat

The first day of any boat show is often busy and crowded wherever you go. Somewhere within all of the ruckus is the voice of reason and sensibility, telling you to look beyond the beauty and carefully consider the construction, the fit and finish --  factors that point to a quality boat.
Beauty is important, but be realistic -- you want a boat that will offer years of enjoyment and a solid resale value.
As you approach a booth, look around. Is the staff attentive, well-groomed and sincere or are they grabbing people out of the aisle and putting on a show to get your attention? Do they ask questions about what you're looking for or do they simply run through a laundry list of features they think are important to you?
When you look at the boat, move to where the sides can be seen against the light. You should see a smooth exterior with no dips, humps or print-through. What are the through hulls made from? Quality builders use stainless steel instead of chrome-plated brass or plastic, which can wear more easily. If the boat is primarily trailerable, how is the bow protected? Most boats do not offer bow protection. However, some have a stainless steel scuff plate, right where the nose hits the front of the trailer.
Next, walk around to the stern, if possible. It should be a solid composite plug or at least a fully encapsulated marine-grade wood. Ask the salesperson about it. Are the graphics applied to the hull by tape or are they part of the finish? If taped on, they will eventually become damaged or fade.

Go ahead, step inside
If you feel good about the outside, step inside and start lifting and pulling on things. Is the floor solid? Some builders use special flooring to reduce noise and eliminate the need for wood, which has never been friendly to life on the water. Check out the dash. Is it made of plastic that will weather in a year or two or of more permanent material like powder-coated aluminum? All wiring should be neat, fully wrapped and supported frequently in the run. The circuits should be protected by breakers, not fuses, and offer the weather-protected convenience of toggle switches over rocker switches.
Grab the windshield at its longest side and see if it moves when you push or pull. Are the supports at the walk-through solid stainless or tubular? Tubular supports tend to break down quicker and fail. The hardware should have high-grade stainless material of 316 grade. Quality manufacturers always use thick sandwiched aluminum plates to prevent fasteners from pulling out.
Start opening hatches and checking out the interiors. The hatches should be smooth and catch-free. Interior spaces should be well-ventilated and drained. Seat cushions should be comfortable and securely attached to the boat, especially in the front where the wind can take you away as you travel to your favorite location. Don't forget to examine the bimini. Frail, thin, tube aluminum with straps and snaps rarely last more than a couple years, especially when you are trailer boating. Look for a strong, stainless steel bimini system.

Easy engine access
Before you leave, check out the engine spaces. Are they neat? Can you get to the oil, belts and other fluids? Remember you'll have to service the battery, the hydraulic pump, the oil, flame arrestor, power steering, change belts and more during the life of the boat.
If all these things check out, then let the salesperson know you are interested, but ask for some time to consider this investment. Get him or her to commit to holding a price for you.
Then, go home, relax and do your research. Ask friends or colleagues who own boats for advice. You can also search online for information about construction, warranty and service before you settle on a purchase.
Remember, all boats look pretty at boat shows. But quality boats can be identified if you just take time to look beyond their beauty.