World's largest in-water sailboat show returns to City Dock in Annapolis
The Annapolis Sailboat Show -- the largest in the world of its kind -- is returning to City Dock for four days beginning on Thursday.
Visitors attending the show can board more than 150 sailboats and meet with hundreds of vendors who are "showcasing marine electronics, rigging, safety equipment, apparel, accessories, and services," a news release announced. Attendees can also compare boats and layouts, meet manufacturers and dealers, and find all sorts of sailing resources.
Show hours run Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, the hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Organizers say the event is the largest in-water sailboat show in the world.
General admission tickets for adults are $32. Children 7-15 years of age pay $10, while kids 6 and under get in for free. On Sunday, military personnel and first responders in uniform will be admitted for free, or get discounted tickets with a valid military ID.
The boat show "brings together sailing enthusiasts, prospective buyers and industry professionals to celebrate life on the water and explore the latest in sailing," the news release said.
"This is the moment when Annapolis becomes a boating town in the truest sense," said Sheila Jones, Annapolis Boat Show's general manager. "The docks are full, the boats are ready, and there is something happening everywhere you turn. Come shop for your next boat, get out on the water, learn something new, or simply enjoy a great fall weekend in Annapolis!"
New to this year's show will be courses that are part of the Cruisers University program, an educational resource visitors can choose to join. The program offers seminars and hands-on courses aimed at building confidence and improving sailing skills, according to the news release.
Because of ongoing construction work along City Dock, the show will feature an updated layout. This will include tents for family-friendly activities, while still maintaining the in-water display.
Attendees are encouraged to order tickets in advance from annapolisboatshows.com and plan for additional travel time due to traffic and construction restrictions in downtown Annapolis.