The 47th United States Powerboat Show is set to be the largest of the Annapolis Boat Shows.
In 2017, there were 570 boats, and for 2018, more than 650 are expected to show their best at the 47th Annual United States Powerboat Show. Luxury motor yachts, Downeast-style boats, offshore fishermen, and water toys of all types will be on display October 11-14 at the City Dock in Annapolis, Maryland.
Get a head start before the rest of the crowd and take advantage of VIP Preview Day on October 11th. Be the first to browse the new boats making their debut and the latest from established manufacturers as well as previously owned boats with a personal tour and the unique opportunity to talk with industry reps about opening day specials and all the aspects of boat ownership. VIP parking at the Marine Corps Memorial Stadium is included and a limited number of tickets are available.
Much to See
Don’t worry if you can’t make the VIP day because there are miles of docks to see boats of every style from 8 feet to 80 feet, including trawlers, express cruisers, power cats, trailerable tugs, center consoles, ski boats, pontoons, and inflatables. Another special aspect is the display of more than 150 fishing boats from 50 builders side by side. No other show offers the chance to compare boats so easily.
And then there are all the accessories and gear. “Visitors will explore acres of boating products and services, including the latest in navigational equipment, high-tech electronics, boating accessories, clothing, gear, and related services, such as boating clubs, charter companies, insurance firms, and lending institutions,” says Heather Ford, managing director of the Ford Group, who represents the Annapolis Boat Shows.
If you long for that VIP Experience, LH-Finance offers the Red Carpet VIP Lounge each day. Take a break from the show or discuss their innovative prequalification program for boat buying in a luxury space that includes comfortable seating, complimentary light fare and appetizers from top-tier restaurants and a happy hour that features Papa’s Pilar Rum. The $100 cost includes admission to the show on the day you attend.
Much to Do
But wait, there’s more! “Power cruisers might consider coming to Annapolis a day or two early and attend Cruisers University, which offers a comprehensive curriculum on cruising and boat preparedness,”
Ford adds. “The expert instructors help plan a cruise as well as equip and maintain a boat. There are more than 50 courses offered.” Speaking of cruising, be sure to stop by Aspen Power Catamarans’ Knot Wafflen’ to hear stories from the Jenkins’ 10,000 Mile Tour.
Want to try before you buy? Dealers and manufacturers will be offering demos and sea trials for visitors to see new models, engines and stabilizing systems. Over in Brokerage Cove, an easy, one-block walk (or ferry ride) from the show to a floating marina just past the Spa Creek Bridge, regional boat brokers have a plethora of previously owned boats available. The price of admission includes entry into Brokerage Cove. In addition, seminars on docking, Chesapeake Bay fishing and getting your captain’s license are held Friday and Saturday afternoons. Last but not least, one lucky boat show attendee will win an exotic seven-day, six-night Caribbean charter vacation on board a luxury MarineMax 362 Power Catamaran in the beautiful British Virgin Islands.
This year’s United States Powerboat Show is one not to miss. annapolisboatshows.com
Show Dates and Hours
Thursday, October 11 (VIP Day): 10 am to 5 pm
Friday, October 12: 10 am to 6:30 pm
Saturday, October 13: 10 am to 6:30 pm
Sunday, October 14: 10 am to 5 pm
Admission
VIP Preview Day- $35
VIP Preview Day + Additional Day- $48
Adult One Day- $18 in Advance/ $20 at Gate
Adult Two Day Combo- $31
Children- $5 (6 and younger FREE)
By Steve Davis, Southern Boating September 2018