Dear Editor
Great magazine you’ve got – I’m always subscribed to it.
However, there’s been something that’s been really frustrating me for a long time, to the point where I’m now writing an email. Those extremely informative, professional boat reviews you do – the manufacturer doesn’t want to say how much it costs. Often they will say packages start from, or POA.
I totally understand that the prices can vary massively as you spec a new boat up. I’ve done this several times. But there will be a base price, and you should force manufacturers to tell you! If the manufacturer isn’t happy to share this information, then, frankly, they don’t deserve the publicity you are giving them.
You and I both know once a reader has read one of your boat reviews, the first thing they do is want to know the price of said boat. (I’m speaking for myself here, but I know others feel the same.)
Please work on this – it’s really poor. Other than that, keep up the good work.
Thanks,
John,
By email
Thanks John. I completely understand and share your frustration, but the truth is many manufacturers are not comfortable publishing a price, especially when the boat is loaded with equipment and features, as is often the case with boat reviews.
Their argument goes something like this: “We’d rather have the opportunity to engage with a customer, so we can discuss their needs and their budget, rather than having price as
a starting point.”
It has also been pointed out, particularly for imported models, that identical boats may vary widely in price depending on the exchange rate and many other factors. Magazines also hang around a long time, so someone reading a review even just a year after it was published is unlikely to be able to purchase the same boat for the listed price today. Many dealers/boatbuilders tell us they prefer not to be drawn into price comparison discussions with customers because pricing pressures change constantly and every boat is different.
However, I agree with you that it is reasonable for us to ask for a “Packages from” price. Hopefully, most new boat suppliers will comply.
Editor
