Two of the most anticipated boat shows in the Chesapeake Bay region are just around the corner: the Annapolis Boat Shows, which include the United States Powerboat Show and the United States Sailboat Show.
Every October, hundreds of exhibitors bring boats, gear, apparel, services and accessories to City Dock at the downtown Annapolis waterfront. Boaters from all over the country (and sometimes the world) come to peruse, shop and learn from experts and this creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere in the boating capital of the region.
Boat builders, charter companies, local marine businesses, sailing schools, yacht clubs, and more join the party to form a one-stop-shop for boaters. In the evening, historic downtown Annapolis offers Pusser’s famous Pain Killer cocktails, great restaurants and iconic shopping for all things boating-related.
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United States Powerboat Show
In 2021, the U.S. Powerboat Show will be first, running October 7-10. A variety of powerboats will be on display including bowriders, center consoles, cruisers, cuddy cabins, deck boats, powercats and more.
There are a number of boat builders who will be debuting all-new models that are expected to make their debut include the redesigned Back Cove 372, the Boston Whaler 420 Outrage fishing machine, the stylish Hinkley 35 and the Ranger Tugs R-43 CB, among others. Also check out marine electronics, fishing gear, clothing and more that you’ll need on your new boat.
United States Sailboat Show
Just a few days later, the U.S. Sailboat Show follows on October 14-18. Recognized as one of the world’s most comprehensive and prestigious sailboat shows, this event draws hundreds of mono- and multihull sailboat builders as well as charter companies from around the world which set up in Vacation Basin in Ego Alley.
Yacht charters have been hot lately, and you could win a weeklong sail on a 45-foot catamaran in the British Virgin Islands (courtesy of The Moorings and valued at $10,000) as a door prize. You can also enter to win a sailing charter aboard the 157-foot Arabella yacht, a terrific prize sponsored by the American Sailing Association.
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Education & Hands-On Learning
There’s a lot to learn whether you’re a new boater or a seasoned sailor.
- Serious sailors contemplating offshore passages and travel to exotic locales can take a three-day Offshore Emergency Medicine class and receive a certificate by Wilderness Medical Associates International. The course is U.S. Coast Guard approved under CFR 46 and accepted by U.S. Sailing for first aid training. This is a fee-based class and registration is required.
- Cruisers University will make an appearance again with nearly 30 expert speakers. These popular courses fill up fast, especially the diesel maintenance and navigation classes so book early. University prices include educational materials, expert instruction, breakfast and lunch, evening activities, a one-year basic BoatUS membership and admission to the show(s).
- Additionally, the BoatUS Foundation will be hosting the Demo Dock with introductory courses for the whole family. SeaKeeper will be demonstrating their gyro stabilization system that reduces fatigue and seasickness while with Yamaha, you can test their Helm Master EX system that provides joystick driving for single to quad outboard applications. And don’t forget to check out the Cox diesel outboard engines with their 25% fuel savings.
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Tickets & Getting to the Show
Admission: General admission is $20 with the preview (first) day priced at $35. Children 7-10 are $10 and kids six and under are free. Both shows offer exclusive VIP access ($125) that includes a lounge with catering and a choice of a liquor, wine or beer sampling. There’s also an option to add reserved parking at a gate entrance ($150 for both).
Parking: Boat show visitors are encouraged to park in Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and take the free shuttle bus to the show location. Parking is $20 for cars and $40 for buses and/or motorhomes. Parking is also available at the Eastport Elementary School and at the Annapolis city garages or on-street parking locations.
Don’t miss these premier events in the boating world, and if you can’t decide whether to be a power boater or sailor, come to both.
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