Annapolis Boat Shows Reconnects College Sailing Community
Date: September 22, 2026For immediate release | Annapolis, MD – College sailing may last four years, but the community it creates can last a lifetime. Annapolis Boat Shows is putting that idea to the test this fall by bringing college sailing alumni together at the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show, October 15 through 18 in downtown Annapolis.
In partnership with Sailing World, the new alumni initiative gives former collegiate sailors a reason to return to the waterfront, reconnect with former teammates, and build relationships with sailors from programs across the country. It also puts a little friendly competition behind the reunion: the college sailing program with the most alumni in attendance will receive a $1,000 donation from Annapolis Boat Shows to support its team.
“Everywhere I race, I run into friends who sailed in college. Regattas are a great college reunion, but they only bring together small groups. With so many college sailors working in the marine industry and coming to our shows, we thought it would be fun to host a big reunion” said Mary Ewenson, Annapolis Boat Shows President. “We also thought it would be fun to get some competition going between schools giving everyone a chance to show their school spirit”
The College Sailing Reunion Party will take place from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM on Saturday, October 17 during the Annapolis Sailboat Show. The gathering will feature 2v2 rain gutter racing, complimentary beer on tap, and a regatta-inspired playlist with alumni representing their college programs throughout the evening.
The initiative is yet another example of Annapolis Boat Shows commitment to the sailing community. Beyond showcasing new boats and marine products, the shows create opportunities for sailors to connect with one another, share experiences, and maintain relationships with the people and organizations that keep the sport moving forward.
The college sailing network can extend well beyond graduation. Former collegiate sailors go on to race, cruise, own boats, work in the marine industry, and introduce others to the sport. Bringing the community back together creates an opportunity to celebrate those connections while encouraging alumni to remain active in sailing.
“Some of the best parts of college sailing have nothing to do with the racing,” said Ewenson. “It’s the people you meet, the friendships you make, and the experiences you carry with you. We want to celebrate that and give alumni a reason to come back.”
The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show takes place October 15 through 18 at City Dock in downtown Annapolis, bringing together sailors, boatbuilders, dealers, marine businesses, and sailing enthusiasts for four days on the waterfront.
College sailing alums may purchase show tickets through the dedicated College Sailing ticket link here to have their attendance counted toward their college team’s total. The link also provides $5 off show admission. For more information about the Annapolis Sailboat Show, visit 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.
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Media Contact
Ryan Gullang
ryan@annapolisboatshows.com
(410) 268 8828