The Annapolis City Dock in Maryland welcomed sailors from across the mid-Atlantic region for the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show from April 25-27.
More than 50 boats were on display, making this the nation’s second-largest all-sailboat show—after the Annapolis Sailboat Show that’s held in the fall. Show organizers say the number of sailboats on display here dwarfs what showgoers find at major national events including the Miami and Newport international boat shows.
Highlights at this year’s Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show included the US debut of the Temo 1000 electric outboard, a follow-up to the French manufacturer’s Temo 450. The Temo 1000 has increased power (with a motor equivalent to 3 hp) as well as a blade or rudder configuration for large tenders or sailboats up to 26 feet length overall.
Also new at this year’s show was a First Sail Workshop, where attendees could take a 45-minute introductory sailing class followed by 90 minutes of on-the-water instruction. There was a lot of interest in this program—which was sold out before the boat show’s opening day.
There also were plenty of entry-level sailboats on hand, with more than a dozen boats smaller than 26 feet long on display. The goal, according to show organizers, was to help bring new people into the sport.
Show organizers also placed a renewed emphasis on competitive sailing, with showgoers able to check out purpose-built racers like the Melges 15 and Rondar 640 Viper, and participate in programs like Dawn Riley’s Oakcliff Collaboration Tour.
Sponsors for this year’s show included Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, LaVictoire Finance, BoatUS and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland.
“Between the boats, the seminars and the incredible energy downtown, the weekend was a celebration of everything we love about sailing,” Annapolis Boat Shows President Mary Ewenson stated in a press release. “It was the perfect kickoff to another unforgettable sailing season.”
Is it too early to buy tickets for the Annapolis Powerboat Show and Annapolis Sailboat Show? Nope, they’re on sale now. Kids 6 and younger attend for free. The Annapolis Powerboat Show is scheduled to run October 2-5, while the Annapolis Sailboat Show is on the calendar for October 9-12.
Where to learn more: head over to annapolisboatshows.com
