“We’re not out here to just sell our clients a boat; we’re here to provide an unmatched experience. We’re here to help them create memories with their family. We’re here to help them make the most of the beauty of Colorado. We’re here to provide a top-notch experience like nothing else,” said Eric Smith, General Manager and Co-Owner of the Colorado Boat Center in Johnstown.

 

If you’ve ever driven on I-25, chances are good you’ve seen Colorado Boat Center’s infamous sign – Your Wife Called, She Said You Can Buy a Boat! That sign has been Colorado Boat Center’s leading joke for more than 20 years. This year, the sign has been updated to include: Your kids texted, too. While the sign is legendary, the heart of the matter remains true: boating is a family affair and a positive experience for all.

 

Colorado Boat Center has been a locally owned, family-run business since 1982, when Tom and Nancy Smith turned a successful side venture—sewing boat covers—into a full-time operation. With a strong focus on customer service, the company quickly grew to become one of the region’s leading boat dealers. Nearly two decades ago, their children, Eric and Ashley, joined the team, continuing the family legacy.

 

Today, all four members of the Smith family co-own and operate the business together. Eric serves as General Manager, overseeing daily operations, while Ashley leads the sales department and is often the first point of contact for clients. Nancy manages the coordination of each boat’s transaction and delivery, ensuring a smooth process. Tom continues to personally guide every customer through a detailed two-hour walk-through after the sale, maintaining the personalized service the business was built on.

 

“There are no better memories than a family day on the lake,” Eric says. He went on to say, "Having a great quality and safe boat makes it even better. We take pride in the boat lines we carry, and we’re certain that our clients get the best of the best.”

 

Providing great service and an unmatched experience is core to everything that the Colorado Boat Center team does. From the moment customers walk in, they’re met with knowledgeable and experienced staff. The boats are second to none, and the repair shop is known for its professionalism and care. “Boating should be nothing but fun. We want our clients to be able to relax and enjoy the water without worrying about a thing,” Eric said.

 

Another way Colorado Boat Center provides a great experience for customers is through its annual Barletta Boat Regatta event, held annually on Horsetooth Reservoir. All customers with a Barletta boat are invited for a social day of fun on the lake. They host a boat parade, followed by a cover gathering. They grill food, play music, enjoy each other’s company, and bask in owning some of the best pontoon boats on the market.

 

“It’s the highlight of the summer,” said Eric. “People love the event, and they look forward to it all year. It’s a great way for us to give back to our customers and help build a community of boat-loving people. It’s the most fun, and it makes me proud to be a part of this community.”

 

Buying a Barletta boat is an investment in comfort, quality, and performance on the water. Known for their luxury pontoon boats, Barletta stands out with premium craftsmanship, innovative features, and attention to detail that enhances both functionality and style. With spacious layouts, top-tier materials, and thoughtful amenities – like pet-friendly touches and ultra-comfortable seating – Barletta creates an elevated boating experience that’s perfect for families, friends, and anyone who values reliability and luxury on the water. Their bow-to-stern 10-year warranty offers total peace of mind for the average lifecycle of a boat.

 

“In my opinion, it’s impossible to beat a Barletta,” Eric added. “They’re incredible boats, and our customers love them. You simply cannot have a better boating experience than on a Barletta.”

 

Now with hundreds of Barletta-owning customers, the Regatta has become another legendary thing about the Colorado Boat Center. They average more than 35 boating participants, and the event continues to grow. In the coming years, they plan to make it a weekend-long event.

 

“It’s just so fun to see our customers having fun together, sharing an incredible experience on the water.”

 

The annual Regatta is proof that the Colorado Boat team is here to build relationships and help their clients create lasting memories. They invite you to stop by their showroom in Johnstown and experience the difference for yourself.

 

Learn more about the Colorado Boat Center difference at coloradoboatcenter.com.