Make Plans to Attend a Boat Show Near You!

Whether you are shopping for a new boat or simply wanting to browse to see what's new in the sailing world, it's hard to beat a visit to an in-water boat show.

We are fortunate to live within driving distance to Annapolis, Maryland; the site for two great annual sailboat shows, the Spring Sailboat Show and the United States Sailboat Show. Both events feature a large exhibit area with covered venues for merchants and wares. But most everyone likes to visit these shows to see the boats! Temporary docks are constructed to provide easy access to hundreds of sailing vessels of all makes, styles, and vintage.

If you are shopping for a new boat, the opportunity to step aboard (shoes off first please!) to see and touch the boats is invaluable. Take the helm to see what your line of sight is like. Go below to compare galley locations and berth sizes. How much space does that second head use? Explore the deck to see how much space you really have to take down that spinnaker before the approaching squall lets loose. There are few places where you can compare and contrast so many different boats at once.

A few suggestions for you if you've never attended an in-water boat show before:

• If the show is not in your local area, make travel and lodging arrangements well in advance. Prices will likely be at a premium, but if you wait for the last minute they will be much more expensive.
• Dress for the weather. Use layers to accommodate the unexpected sun, wind, rain, etc.
• Wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on. Since shoes are typically not allowed on the boats, you don't want to spend your day tying shoe laces.
• Take a small daypack with water and snacks. Boat shows are hard work and you need to sustain your energy!
• Pack a notebook and pen to record your thoughts about the boats that interest you. You may think that you'll remember details, but once you walk through a couple dozen boats the mental notes begin to blur together.
• Bring along a camera or make certain your mobile phone has enough free memory for lots of photos. The images will help with your note taking.

I've included a few photos from our recent visit to the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show (April 28 - 30, 2017). It was a great experience and we've already made arrangements to attend the United States Sailboat Show this fall. Maybe we will see you there?

"From an early age, the child is told 'watch where you are going!' Good advice [for the sailor]."

Roger C. Taylor, Elements of Seamanship