Got some attendance numbers from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) for the 2010 Miami Boat Show:

91,415 attendees this year. Down from 96,736 in 2009. The numbers, according to the NMMA, are consistent with attendance declines for boat shows so far in 2010. That said, some exhibitors reported significant sales increases over 2009, with some accessory companies reporting 20-30 percent more sales.

Consistent with the unofficial word on the docks. The foot traffic seemed pretty sparse at times but more people seemed serious about buying a boat. Whether the concrete numbers bear out the hopefulness remains to be seen going forward, but at least this year you could hear hints of optimism, a sentiment in short supply in Miami in 2009.