Racing abounds at the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show
Date: September 11, 2026
Racers are always looking for an edge, whether it be better equipment, tactical insight, or just foul-weather gear that’ll actually keep them dry. The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show (Oct. 15-18) is a one-stop shop for everything a sailor needs to get a leg up. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect.
Race-ready dinghies
A dinghy reports every mistake immediately, which makes it an excellent teacher at any age. The lineup this year includes the Laser, Sunfish, RS Quest, RS Zest, the foiling BirdyFish, and the Maryland-made Flying Scot. Some sailors graduate to bigger boats. Plenty never see the need.
Racing monohulls
Purpose-built race boats and race-ready cruisers will be on display. The J/Boats lineup runs from the J/7 and J/9 daysailers to the J/36 and J/40 racer-cruisers. Then there’s Spite Sailing’s Mini 6.50 and the 47-foot Sparrow Open 50 from AOS. It’s a rare chance to put a tape measure to the thinking behind boats you usually only see from a few lengths astern. See the full boat list.
Calling all college sailors
It’s a general recall. Sailing World wants every college sailing alum back at the line Saturday, Oct. 17, 5 to 6:30 p.m., for rain gutter racing and free beer. Show admission gets you in. The best-represented program earns a $1,000 donation, so tell us who you sailed for. Answer the call.
The gear is here
Foul-weather gear is easier to judge in a dry tent than on a wet rail. Try on jackets, bibs, and more from brands including Gill, Helly Hansen, Musto, Mustang Survival, and Zhik, then talk sails, rigging, and line with the people who make them. Bring the questions you’ve been meaning to ask since last season. See the full product list.
Refit my ride
Most refits take longer than planned. Oakcliff Sailing has four days, two boats, and an audience. At Dock E2, the team will overhaul an Express 27 and a J/22 using sails, paint, electronics, an electric outboard, Starlink, and more from show exhibitors, each a short walk away. Stop by more than once to watch the work come together. Learn more.
US Sailing
US Sailing will be at the show with something for the next generation of racers. Young sailors can take on a STEM scavenger hunt that turns the docks into a science lesson and parents can stop by for information on getting their kids into racing.