Spring Boat Show Sneak Peek for Powerboaters and Sailors
We look forward to seeing our powerboating and sailing friends at the two spring boat shows on the middle Chesapeake: The Bay Bridge Boat Show and the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show. Here’s a sneak peek and links to buy tickets.
Discount alert! SpinSheet readers who sign up for our Crew Finder or log in to update their crew profile may access a “buy one, get one free” ticket to the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show. We will send out a discount code right before the shows to those who do.
Bay Bridge Boat Show
Dates: April 14-16
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Location: Bay Bridge Marina in Stevensville, MD
Tickets: General admission $18 at annapolisboatshows.com, $20 at the gate (children under 12 are free). Limited onsite box office available.
Show Highlights: The most exciting new powerboats from major manufacturers will be on display, along with the latest in navigational equipment, boating accessories, and electronics. Also, the PropTalk Demo Dock, free daily seminars, on-water training with BoatUS Foundation, live music Friday and Saturday nights, and more.
Directions and Parking: From Annapolis, head east on Route 50. After crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, take the first exit on the right for Kent Island (Exit 37), then follow the signs for Boat Show Parking. If directed to offsite parking, a shuttle bus will take you to the show. Parking costs $10 per car. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Kent Island High School swim team.
BOAT BUYING TIPS: See our interview with the experts about buying a boat, what to know, and what to avoid below.
Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show
Dates: April 28-30
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Location: City Dock, Annapolis
Tickets: General admission $18 at annapolisboatshows.com, $20 at the gate (children under 12 are free). Limited onsite box office available.
Parking: Boat show visitors are encouraged to park at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and take a free shuttle to and from the show. Shuttles will run one hour prior to show opening through one hour after the show closes. Visit ParkMobile (app.parkmobile.io/venue/navy-marine-corps-memorial-stadium/events) if you would like to reserve parking for the spring show dates (cost: $23).
Parking is also available at the Eastport Elementary School for $30 per car (401-405 6th Street, Annapolis, MD) and around downtown Annapolis (find a list of parking options at annapolisparking.com). Be sure to plan ahead as parking garages downtown fill up fast.
Show Highlights: Climb aboard new and brokerage sailboats, meet with charter companies, shop gear and equipment, and catch up with marine professionals and sailing friends. Also don’t miss: VIP experience, Cruisers University, free daily seminars, First Sail Workshop, Tasting Tent, and more. Right after Sunday at the show, head to the SpinSheet Annapolis Crew Party from 4-6 p.m. at Eastport Yacht Club.
FAQs: A few more things to keep in mind if you’re planning to attend either show:
No animals are allowed inside the show unless they are certified service animals.
Strollers are not allowed inside the show due to safety issues. Please park your stroller in the designated stroller parking area.
It is recommended that all children wear lifejackets.
The show is open rain or shine.
You do not need to print your ticket; they can be scanned from your phone.
If you leave the show, you will get a hand stamp and will be allowed to re-enter.
For more details and to purchase tickets, visit annapolisboatshows.com.
