Mike Plymale // Group Design Director AD/CD/DP/CXA
Screenshot 2024-04-25 at 5.08.14 PM.jpeg

Marine Max - Online Boat Show

MarineMax - Online Boat Show

The Client

Meet MarineMax: the gateway to the world of boating. MarineMax offers an extensive range of boats tailored to every enthusiast's needs. Established with a commitment to quality and a love for the water, MarineMax has become a trusted name in the industry.

From sleek cruisers to luxurious yachts, MarineMax's collection caters to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone. More than just a boat retailer, MarineMax is a destination for those seeking unforgettable experiences on the water.

Design Process

Digital & Content Strategy
Architecture & UX Design
Branding & UI Design

ROLE: Design Director/Lead UX Design

TOOLS: Sketch, Illustrator, Photoshop, InVision, Zeplin

TIMELINE: 6 months

 
 

The Challenge: Reinventing the Boat Show Experience

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional in-person boat shows faced unprecedented cancellations, leaving enthusiasts yearning for an alternative means to explore and engage with marine offerings. As the industry grappled with this dilemma, MarineMax embraced the challenge of reimagining the boat show experience for the digital age.

Tasked with creating an immersive online platform, our mission was to capture the essence of the traditional boat show while leveraging digital capabilities to deliver a seamless and engaging experience. From interactive virtual tours to live demonstrations, our goal was to transcend physical limitations and bring the thrill of boating directly to enthusiasts' homes.

Innovating amidst uncertainty, we embarked on a journey to redefine the very concept of the boat show, embracing technology to forge connections, inspire exploration, and uphold the spirit of maritime adventure.

UX Flow: Navigating the experience

At the MarineMax online boat show, users register and receive personalized invitations to explore the virtual venue. Inside, they can easily browse and explore featured boats through intuitive categories and detailed descriptions. Interactive virtual tours provide immersive experiences, complemented by live demonstrations and expert presentations. Enhanced navigation tools enable quick searches, bookmarking of favorites, and seamless movement between sections. Users can engage with exhibitors through chat and video conferencing for personalized assistance. Feedback options and social media integration enhance interaction and sharing, creating a dynamic and engaging online boating experience.

 

Component Library

In designing the MarineMax online boat show, we curated a comprehensive component library to ensure consistency and functionality across the platform. From registration forms to interactive virtual tours, each component was crafted to enhance user engagement and streamline navigation for each city that the live boat show was taking place in.

Our library includes versatile elements such as registration forms, interactive maps, virtual tour interfaces, and live chat features. These components are designed to be modular and adaptable, allowing for seamless integration into various sections of the online boat show.

With a focus on user experience and accessibility, our component library empowers users to effortlessly explore boats, engage with exhibitors, and navigate the virtual venue with ease. By leveraging these standardized components, we ensure a cohesive and immersive online experience for all participants.

 

Homepage

The homepage serves as the starting hub for enthusiasts eager to embark on a digital maritime adventure. Designed with simplicity and elegance in mind, it welcomes visitors with a captivating visual showcasing the allure of boating.

At first glance, users are greeted with an inviting interface that highlights the essence of the event. Prominent calls to action prompt users to register and join the excitement, ensuring seamless access to the virtual venue.

Beneath the surface, the homepage offers a glimpse into the rich array of experiences awaiting attendees. Featured boats, upcoming live demonstrations, and interactive showcases are prominently displayed, enticing users to delve deeper into the world of boating.

Navigation is intuitive, with clear pathways guiding users to explore different sections of the event. Whether seeking inspiration for their next adventure or connecting with industry experts, the homepage serves as a gateway to a world of possibilities on the water.

With its blend of captivating visuals, streamlined navigation, and user-friendly interface, the homepage sets the stage for an unforgettable online boat show experience, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey of discovery from the comfort of their own homes.

 

Live Stream: Bringing the Boating Experience to Life

At the heart of the MarineMax online boat show lies the dynamic live stream feature, offering enthusiasts an immersive glimpse into the world of boating in real-time. Seamlessly integrated into the virtual venue, live streams provide an interactive platform for attendees to engage with industry experts, explore featured boats, and participate in captivating demonstrations.

Scheduled throughout the event, live streams offer a diverse array of content, ranging from expert panels and Q&A sessions to exclusive unveilings and on-water showcases. Enthusiasts can tune in from anywhere in the world, experiencing the excitement of the boat show from the comfort of their own homes.

Interactive chat functionality enables attendees to pose questions, share insights, and connect with fellow boating enthusiasts in real-time. Whether seeking advice on a specific model, learning about the latest trends, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the live stream feature fosters community and camaraderie among participants.

With its blend of informative content, engaging presentations, and interactive dialogue, the live stream feature serves as a cornerstone of the MarineMax online boat show, bridging the gap between virtual and real-world boating experiences and ensuring a truly memorable event for all attendees.

 

Inventory

The inventory section of the MarineMax online boat show is a treasure trove for boating enthusiasts, offering a curated selection of vessels to suit every taste and preference. From sleek cruisers to luxurious yachts, the inventory showcases the latest offerings from top brands, providing attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore and compare a wide range of boats from the comfort of their own homes.

With intuitive search and filtering options, users can easily navigate through the inventory to find boats that match their specific criteria, whether it's size, price, or features. Detailed descriptions and specifications accompany each listing, offering valuable insights into the unique attributes of each vessel.

For those seeking personalized assistance, the inventory section also facilitates direct communication with MarineMax representatives, who are on hand to answer questions, provide additional information, and assist with the purchasing process. Whether browsing for inspiration or ready to make a purchase, the inventory section provides a seamless and immersive experience for attendees of the online boat show.

 

Boat Details

The boat details section of the MarineMax online boat show is where enthusiasts are invited to embark on a journey of discovery through the intricacies of each vessel on display. Here, attendees can immerse themselves in a wealth of information and insights, gaining a deeper understanding of the boats available and finding the perfect match for their boating dreams.

Each boat listing is accompanied by detailed descriptions that provide a comprehensive overview of its features, amenities, and performance capabilities. From engine specifications to onboard comforts, users can explore every aspect of the vessel, understanding what sets it apart and how it aligns with their boating preferences.

In addition to written descriptions, high-resolution images and interactive galleries offer a visual feast for the eyes, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of each boat in stunning detail. Attendees can admire the sleek lines of a cruiser, envisioning themselves gliding across the water, or marvel at the spacious layout of a yacht, picturing the possibilities for luxurious escapades.

For those seeking an even closer look, interactive 360 degree virtual tours provide a dynamic exploration experience, allowing users to navigate through the boat's interiors and exteriors with ease. From the helm to the cabins, users can zoom in to examine details and get a true sense of the vessel's scale and design, all from the comfort of their own homes.

With its wealth of information, stunning visuals, and immersive experiences, the boat details section serves as a gateway to the world of boating, empowering attendees to make informed decisions and find the boat of their dreams.