Things to do at the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show
Date: July 17, 2026New layout, new boats, same great show.
The Annapolis Powerboat Show returns to City Dock Oct. 8-11 with a reimagined layout, a slate of debuting boats, and more ways than ever to spend a day (or four) on the docks. Whether you’re shopping for your next boat, sharpening your skills, or just soaking up the season, here’s what to expect at this year’s show.
A new look for a familiar favorite
Now in its 54th year, the show has a new layout. To accommodate the City Dock project, tents have moved, expanded, and reoriented, and four new bars will anchor social spaces throughout the show. Same show, same docks, fresh footprint.
Boats making their Annapolis debut
More than 350 boats will line the docks, and this year’s lineup includes a headliner: the Askari 65, an aluminum cruiser with a 3,900-nautical-mile range, makes its world premiere in Annapolis. It joins a roster of boats new to the show, including the Aspen C110, Hunt 56, Omikron OT-60, and, from Riverside Marine, the Bayliner V22 and Sportsman Heritage 251.
Back by popular demand, the Brokerage Dock returns outside Dock D with a selection of preloved boats for buyers who want proven performance at a competitive price point.
Take one for a spin
At the PropTalk Demo Dock, located at Dock K, qualified buyers can sea trial a selection of boats during the show. Sea trials are scheduled directly with exhibitors, so talk to them at the show or call ahead to reserve a time slot.
Learn from the pros
The free seminar series, located in Yacht Basin, features expert-led sessions covering a wide range of topics for landlubbers and old salts alike. All seminars are included with admission.
For hands-on learners, BoatUS On-Water Training offers three-hour courses led by licensed USCG captains. The curriculum runs from an introduction to boating through precision docking and open-water boat handling, and class sizes are capped at four students, so everyone gets time behind the wheel. Courses are open to ages 12 and up, women-only classes are available, and registration includes show admission.
Raise a glass in the No Wake Zone
When it’s time to take a break, head to the No Wake Zone in Yacht Basin, where Pherm Brewing will pour its Boat Show Brew alongside other regionally brewed beers, joined by a bar from Latitude 38 and mixers from Gray Wolf and Cane. And with downtown Annapolis steps away, top-tier restaurants and watering holes are never far.
Fun for the whole crew
The Kids Corner, run by the Coastal Conservation Association of Maryland, keeps young attendees busy with boatbuilding, Bay-themed coloring and crafts, casting competitions, and cornhole. Keep an eye out for Dockside Ducks, too: kids who find one of the rubber ducks hidden around the show can turn it in at the show office, information booth, or ticket booth for a prize, and they get to keep the duck. Limit one per attendee.
Before you head in, register for door prizes at the show entrances. Winners are randomly selected from registrants, courtesy of sponsor Vacation Village.
Plan your visit
The Annapolis Powerboat Show runs Oct. 8-11 at City Dock. Buy your tickets in advance at annapolisboatshows.com and skip the lines.