Taking a new car or boat for a test drive is one of the most exciting parts of the buying process. Whether it’s the thrill of hitting the open road in a new car or the fun of gliding over the water in a boat, test drives and sea trials give customers a true feel for their purchase.

While both experiences are important to help buyers make the right choice, they’re a bit different—and each one can be made even better. Here’s a look at how car and boat dealerships can turn these test drives into memorable experiences that help close more sales.

The Differences Between Test Drives and Sea Trials

When you test drive a car, you can usually drive on nearby roads or highways to get a feel for how it handles the drive. You experience how the car feels under regular driving conditions, which is crucial for most people. Dealerships make it easy to take the car for a short drive and then return it for questions or further discussions.

On the other hand, sea trials for boats take place on the water. Instead of driving on the road, buyers take the boat out on a lake, river, or even the ocean, depending on the location. For example, a boat dealer in Indianapolis, IN, would be doing test drives on a lake. This gives customers the chance to see how the boat handles on waves, in tight spaces, and at different speeds. Unlike cars, boats face changing water conditions, so a sea trial helps buyers understand how the boat will perform on real water.

Creating a Memorable Test Drive for Car Buyers

Car dealerships can make test drives more meaningful by allowing customers to test different conditions and speeds. For example, adding a mix of city and highway routes can give drivers a full experience. Offering a knowledgeable salesperson to answer questions during or after the drive also helps customers feel more informed and confident. Another idea is to allow customers to test features like the sound system, comfort controls, and any special driving modes. These details may seem small, but they add to the overall experience.

Allowing longer test drives can also help. Some dealers offer “extended test drives,” where customers can take the car home for a day or two. This option lets potential buyers try the car in their daily life, which can be very helpful in making a final decision.

Improving the Sea Trial Experience for Boat Buyers

For boat dealerships, giving buyers a full feel of the boat on the water is key. A sea trial should include a variety of speeds and maneuvers to show how the boat performs in real conditions. The salesperson can explain how to operate the boat and highlight special features, like navigation tools, storage space, fishing setups, etc.

Providing a friendly, relaxed environment helps put customers at ease, especially if they are new to boating. Encouraging questions and demonstrating boating basics, such as docking and parking, will help.

Making Each Experience Special

Ultimately, whether it’s a test drive on the road or a sea trial on the water, making these experiences enjoyable and informative can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. For car and boat dealerships, adding personal touches and offering extra time behind the wheel can help customers feel comfortable with their purchases.

For instance, a boat dealer in Indianapolis, IN, might consider partnering with local marinas for a more scenic trial experience on a nearby lake. These extra efforts can make a big difference, increasing the chance that buyers will drive or sail away with a new car or boat.