These are all good points.

I understand that dealer invoice prices are only one indicator, that
there are many mitigating factors such as holdbacks and manufacturer
incentives and that you have to look at it skeptically (no bridges,
thanks -- and no Rolex either). And, of course, you can get far more
for your money in the used market. The gear alone that you get on a
used boat can make it a smart move.

But there are reasons to buy a new boat too, such as warranties and
service and a desire to avoid inherited problems. Plenty of people do
it and they can't all be dummies. It's a good option for some people
under certain conditions and I'm curious whether there is anything out
there that helps these buyers gain any type of edge. Frankly, I haven't
seen anything and I'm wondering why.