Drought, economy expected to impact sales at boat & RV show

Alamodome hosts annual expo

SAN ANTONIO – Fans of the outdoors will be flocking to the Alamodome throughout the weekend for the annual Boat and RV Show. 

Most will be checking out the latest models of boats and RVs -- but not many will actually be buying.

These days, boats aren't selling like they used to, according to Don Canada, executive director of the San Antonio Boat and RV Show. 

He said the economy is a big factor, as is the drought.

"If you can't get a boat into the lake, it's harder to sell somebody a boat on a trailer if you can't get it into the water," said Canada. "You can't say that it has not hurt but this is cyclical. it comes and goes this way."

Although boat sales may be down, Canada said RV sales are still going strong, despite the economy and despite the cost of gas.

"RV sales in the last 3 months or last year are up 25 percent during the gas crunch if you will," said Canada.  

He said he believes boating sales will soon pick up, too.

"I'll bet you that if the lakes fill up and we get through the election, I think you're going to see a much different atmosphere next year at the boat show," said Canada.

The Boat and RV Show runs through the weekend at the Alamodome. Hours are noon to 9 p.m., Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $8 for adults $4 for children and seniors. Children under 7 get in free and parking is free. For more information, visit http://www.sanantonioboatshow.com/.