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Annapolis Boat Shows Return This Fall as Waterfront Enters New Era

Date: August 12, 2026

For immediate release | Annapolis, MD – The Annapolis Boat Shows will return this October, welcoming boating enthusiasts from around the world for two of the industry’s most anticipated events. The Annapolis Powerboat Show, October 8 through 11, and the Annapolis Sailboat Show, October 15 through 18, will once again transform downtown Annapolis into the boating capital of the world, showcasing hundreds of new boats, the latest marine technology, hands-on education, and the lifestyle that has made the shows a must-attend destination for more than five decades.

The Annapolis Powerboat Show will feature more than 250 new powerboats from leading manufacturers, including center consoles, cruisers, trawlers, inflatables, and luxury motor yachts. Visitors will have the opportunity to step aboard the newest models, meet directly with manufacturers and dealers, explore the latest marine products and accessories, and experience a variety of models firsthand through the popular PropTalk Demo Dock sea trials.

Just a week later, the Annapolis Sailboat Show remains the largest in-water sailboat show in the world, attracting sailors, exhibitors, and industry professionals from around the globe. From bluewater cruising yachts and performance racers to multihulls and daysailers, the show offers an unmatched opportunity to compare hundreds of sailing products, connect with leading brands, and experience the latest innovations shaping the future of sailing.

“Every October, Annapolis becomes the center of the boating world,” said Mary Ewenson, President of Annapolis Boat Shows. “These shows bring together the best boats, the best brands, and the most passionate boating communities anywhere. Come buy your first boat, plan your next adventure, catch up with your boating friends, or simply come to experience the boating lifestyle.”

Beyond the boats, both shows offer extensive educational programming designed for every experience level. Attendees may participate in free, expert-led seminars covering boating safety, maintenance, cruising, fishing, navigation, weather, and emerging marine technologies. Take a BoatUS On-The-Water Training course or sign up for Cruisers University as it returns with its immersive multi-day curriculum featuring internationally-recognized instructors and in-depth courses for sailors preparing for coastal cruising, offshore passagemaking, and long-distance adventures.

As the City of Annapolis continues its once in a generation waterfront revitalization project, portions of the show footprint for both power and sail have been thoughtfully reconfigured in collaboration with city officials and local partners. While attendees will notice changes to the layout, the experience they have come to expect remains the same, with expansive in-water displays, educational programming, exhibitor access, and seamless connections to the restaurants, shops, and businesses that make downtown Annapolis a destination beyond the docks.

Additional details and ticket purchase information can be found on AnnapolisBoatShows.com.

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 Annapolis Boat Shows

Founded in 1970, Annapolis Boat Shows is the producer of the world’s first and largest in-water sailboat show and a leader in premier marine events. The company hosts four annual shows on the Chesapeake Bay — including the Annapolis Sailboat Show, Annapolis Powerboat Show, Bay Bridge Boat Show at Safe Harbor Narrows Point, and Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show — that draw tens of thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors from around the world. Guided by its mission to foster a thriving boating community, Annapolis Boat Shows promotes accessibility, education, community, and sustainability while setting the standard for marine events worldwide.

Media Assets: High-resolution photos and logos are available here.

Media interested in connecting with exhibiting dealers for interviews or additional insight can contact the Annapolis Boat Shows team directly.

Media Contact

Ryan Gullang

ryan@annapolisboatshows.com 

(410) 268 8828

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