2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show Guide: Boats, Tickets, Events & What to Expect
Planning to attend the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show? Here's what to expect, including boats, tickets, events, parking, the new layout, and where to find Adventure Yacht Sales.
Your Guide to the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show
If you're heading to the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show, be sure to stop by and see us at Adventure Yacht Sales in Tent K, Booth 18. Our team will be in Annapolis throughout the show and would love to connect with sailors, boat buyers, boat owners, and anyone who simply wants to talk boats.
The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show runs Thursday, October 15 through Sunday, October 18 at City Dock in downtown Annapolis. Now in its 56th edition, the show brings together sailboat manufacturers, yacht brokers, marine equipment companies, sailing organizations, educators, charter companies, and thousands of sailors and boating enthusiasts.
Whether you're actively searching for your next cruising sailboat, thinking about buying your first boat, comparing monohulls and catamarans, looking for new marine gear, or just want to spend a fall weekend surrounded by boats, there's plenty to see.
And this year, there are a few important things to know before you arrive.
The show has a new layout because of the ongoing City Dock transformation, downtown traffic and parking will be affected, and there are new experiences and gathering areas throughout the show.
Here's what you need to know.
2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show at a Glance
Dates: October 15–18, 2026
Location: City Dock, Annapolis, Maryland
Thursday Preview Day: October 15
Show Hours:
Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Friday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Adventure Yacht Sales: Tent K, Booth 18
General Admission: $32
Preview Day: $55
Youth ages 7–15: $10
Children 6 and under: Free
Military Appreciation Day: $22 on Sunday
The official ticket site also offers two-day combinations, including a Preview Day + one additional day for $82 and a two-day General Admission ticket for $59.
Stop by Adventure Yacht Sales in Tent K, Booth 18
If you're coming to the show, make Adventure Yacht Sales one of your stops.
You'll find us at Tent K, Booth 18, according to the official 2026 exhibitor listing.
The Annapolis Sailboat Show is a great opportunity to talk with our team about the boat-buying process, whether you're just beginning your search or already have a pretty good idea of what you're looking for.
And you don't have to be ready to buy a boat to stop by.
Maybe you're trying to figure out whether a monohull or catamaran is right for you. Maybe you're wondering how much boat you really need. Maybe you're considering buying a used cruising sailboat instead of a new one.
These are exactly the kinds of conversations that can be helpful before you start seriously shopping.
If you're already looking for a brokerage boat, the show is also a great time to talk through what's available beyond the boats physically displayed at City Dock.
Have questions about buying or selling a yacht? Come find us at Tent K, Booth 18.
When Is the Annapolis Sailboat Show?
The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show takes place October 15–18, 2026 in downtown Annapolis.
Show Hours
Thursday, October 15 — Preview Day
10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Friday, October 16
10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 17
10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 18
10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
If you're a serious boat shopper, Thursday's Preview Day can be worth considering. It gives you an opportunity to get aboard boats before the main Friday-through-Sunday crowds.
What Boats Will Be at the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show?
Of course, the boats are the main attraction.
The Annapolis Sailboat Show brings together an impressive mix of monohulls, multihulls, cruising sailboats, performance boats, racers, sailing dinghies, and more.
You'll see boats designed for very different kinds of sailing.
Cruising Monohulls
For many visitors, cruising monohulls are the main event.
You'll find boats designed for everything from weekend sailing and coastal cruising to extended offshore adventures.
Walking through several boats in the same size range can be especially valuable because you quickly start to notice how much layouts and design philosophies differ.
Pay attention to:
Cockpit layout
Helm position
Companionway access
Cabin size
Galley layout
Storage
Engine access
Tankage
Draft
Sail-handling systems
Electrical systems
Owner's cabin
Guest accommodations
Two boats that look similar online can feel completely different once you're standing inside them.
Cruising Catamarans
Multihulls are another major part of the show.
The 2026 show includes catamarans from several manufacturers, giving visitors an opportunity to compare different approaches to multihull cruising.
One of the notable additions this year is Aquila's sailing catamaran lineup, including the Aquila 45 Sail, making its Americas debut, and the Aquila 50 Sail.
For anyone considering a catamaran, being able to walk through multiple models in one weekend can make the decision much easier.
Performance & Specialty Boats
The show isn't only about cruising yachts.
You'll also find performance-oriented sailboats, racing boats, sailing dinghies, and other specialty vessels.
That variety is part of what makes the Annapolis show so useful. You can walk from a traditional cruising design to a modern performance boat and immediately see how different the priorities can be.
New Boats and Debuts to Look For
One of the most exciting parts of a major boat show is seeing boats that may be new to the market—or new to the American market.
Among the boats generating attention for the 2026 show are new and debuting models from manufacturers around the industry.
The Aquila 45 Sail is making its Americas debut, while Aquila is also displaying the Aquila 50 Sail.
The show also features new models from manufacturers including Jeanneau and other major sailing brands.
For boat shoppers, these premieres are worth checking out even if you're ultimately planning to buy used.
Why?
Because seeing the newest designs can help you understand where the market is headed—and can give you a useful point of comparison when you're looking at brokerage boats.
It's More Than a Boat Show
If you think the Annapolis Sailboat Show is simply four days of walking aboard sailboats, you're missing a big part of the experience.
The show also features exhibits focused on:
Marine electronics
Navigation equipment
Communication systems
Sails and rigging
Safety equipment
Marine accessories
Cruising gear
Education
Charter companies
Sailing organizations
Clubs
Marine services
Engines and performance equipment
There is also a new Engine & Performance Pavilion for 2026, sponsored by YANMAR and Vetus, bringing additional attention to marine engines, propulsion, and related equipment.
In other words, you can spend a full day at the show without ever running out of things to explore.
Educational Programs and Sailing Experiences
The Annapolis Sailboat Show is also a great place to learn.
Free seminars and hands-on educational programs are offered throughout the show, covering different aspects of sailing and boat ownership.
For newer sailors, one of the particularly useful opportunities is the From Curious to Confident: A Guided Conversation for Beginner Sailors panel.
The program is scheduled for Saturday, October 17 at 9:00 a.m. in the Seminar Tent. Guests enter through the Yacht Basin gate.
There are also First Sail Workshops, giving participants the opportunity to get hands-on sailing experience with an instructor.
If you're newer to sailing, don't feel like you need to know everything before you arrive.
Bring your questions.
That's what the show is for.
Special Events to Look For
There are also plenty of reasons to stick around after you've finished walking the docks.
Thursday, October 15
Thursday is Preview Day and runs until 6:30 p.m.
The show is also introducing new social spaces and gathering areas throughout the grounds this year, making it easier to grab a drink, meet up with friends, and take a break from walking the docks.
Friday, October 16
Friday is a good day to combine boat shopping with seminars, exhibits, and networking.
The show also includes programming and social events geared toward different segments of the sailing community.
Saturday, October 17
Saturday is likely to be one of the busiest days at the show.
For newer sailors, the From Curious to Confident panel begins at 9:00 a.m. before the main show opens.
American Sailing is also hosting its College Sailing Reunion and other programming throughout the day.
Sunday, October 18
Sunday is Military Appreciation Day, with a $22 admission ticket available to active-duty military, veterans, retirees, and spouses with appropriate identification.
The show closes at 5:00 p.m.
The 2026 Show Layout Is Different
This is one of the most important things to know before you go.
Don't rely on an old Annapolis Sailboat Show map.
The ongoing City Dock transformation has changed the traditional show footprint.
The 2026 show includes expanded and reconfigured exhibit areas, with portions of the show extending into the surrounding downtown area. The City has also warned visitors to expect road closures, detours, and parking restrictions around downtown during the boat-show period.
The show is still centered around City Dock and Annapolis Harbor, but the layout will not look exactly like previous years.
Where to Find the 2026 Map
The best option is to check the official 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show map before you arrive and then pick up the official show guide once you're inside.
How Much Are Annapolis Sailboat Show Tickets?
Current 2026 ticket prices are:
Preview Day — Thursday
$55
This ticket is valid for Thursday, October 15.
General Admission
$32
Valid for one day, Friday through Sunday.
Youth Admission
$10
For children ages 7–15.
Children 6 and under are free.
Military Appreciation Day
$22
Valid Sunday, October 18, for active-duty military, veterans, retirees, and spouses with identification.
Two-Day Options
The show also offers:
Preview Day + one General Admission day: $82
Two General Admission days: $59
Where to Buy Tickets
The easiest option is to purchase tickets online ahead of time.
Buy tickets for the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show
Ticket pricing and availability can change, so check the official ticket page before heading to Annapolis.
Parking: What You Need to Know
If you're driving to the show, plan your parking before you leave home.
This year, downtown Annapolis has additional traffic and parking restrictions because of both the boat shows and City Dock construction.
The City has advised visitors to expect road closures, detours, and parking restrictions from October 5 through October 21.
City Garages
Visitors can use several city-owned garages, including:
Hillman
Knighton
Gotts Court
Park Place
The free downtown Magenta Shuttle connects city garages with downtown and operates on a regular loop.
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
Another option is parking at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and taking the free shuttle into downtown.
Parking is currently listed at $30, or $25 when booked in advance.
For many visitors, this may be an easier option than trying to find a parking spot directly downtown.
Give Yourself Extra Time
This isn't the year to arrive 15 minutes before the gates open and expect everything to go smoothly.
Give yourself extra time for:
Traffic
Parking
Walking to the show
Finding your entrance
Navigating the new layout
You'll enjoy the day much more if you're not rushing.
Can You Arrive by Boat?
Yes, but there are some important changes for 2026.
The City has specific rules regarding moorings and anchoring during the boat shows.
Ego Alley will not have normal transient dockage during the show period, and the City's boat-show information page provides updated information about available moorings and anchoring restrictions.
For boaters arriving by water, the City also says the normal Prince George Street dinghy dock will be closed during the shows. A dedicated dinghy dock will instead be located at the end of Shipwright Street.
If you're planning to arrive by boat, check the City's current boat-show information before you leave.
What Should You Bring to the Annapolis Sailboat Show?
You don't need much—but a few things will make the experience better.
Comfortable Shoes
You will walk.
A lot.
You'll be moving between docks, boats, tents, sidewalks, and downtown Annapolis.
Layers
October weather in Annapolis can be beautiful, but mornings and evenings can be cool.
Layers make it easier to stay comfortable all day.
Your Phone
You'll want it for:
Photos
Notes
The show map
Contact information
Boat specifications
Scheduling appointments
And bring a portable charger if you have one.
A Boat Shopping List
If you're seriously looking for a boat, write down your priorities before you arrive.
Consider:
Where will I cruise?
How many people will normally be aboard?
Will I live aboard?
Will I sail offshore?
Do I prefer a monohull or catamaran?
How much maintenance am I comfortable handling?
What is my realistic budget?
Those answers will help you avoid getting distracted by every shiny boat on the dock.
Tips for Boat Buyers
If you're attending the Annapolis Sailboat Show because you're thinking about buying a boat, use the show as a research opportunity.
Don't feel like you have to make a decision on the spot.
Instead, compare.
Step aboard several boats in the same size range.
Take notes.
Ask questions.
Pay attention to how the boat actually feels.
A boat can look perfect online but feel completely different when you're standing inside the cockpit or trying to move through the cabin.
Questions Worth Asking
When you're aboard a boat you're seriously considering, ask about:
Asking price
Availability
Delivery
Engine and propulsion
Tankage
Electrical systems
Maintenance
Warranty
Sail-handling systems
Storage
Draft
Typical cruising range
Ownership costs
And if you're looking at used boats, talk to a yacht broker about the brokerage market, too.
The perfect boat for you may not be brand new—or even be physically at the show.
Should You Spend One Day or Two at the Show?
For casual visitors, one day may be plenty.
For serious boat shoppers, two days can be very helpful.
You can use the first day to explore and create a shortlist.
Then use the second day to revisit your favorites and have longer conversations with brokers or manufacturers.
This is especially useful if you're comparing multiple boat types.
For example, you may arrive thinking you want a 40-foot monohull and leave wondering whether a 42-foot catamaran actually makes more sense for your cruising plans.
That's a good thing.
The goal of the show isn't necessarily to leave with a boat.
It's to leave with better information.
What Makes the Annapolis Sailboat Show Worth Attending?
The biggest advantage is simple:
You can compare a huge variety of boats and boating products in one place.
Instead of looking at photos online and trying to imagine what a boat feels like, you can walk aboard.
You can sit in the cockpit.
Stand at the helm.
Walk through the cabin.
Open the storage lockers.
Look at the engine access.
Talk to the people who build and sell the boats.
Then walk 100 feet and do it all again on another model.
For anyone thinking seriously about buying a boat, that kind of comparison is incredibly valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show?
The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show runs October 15–18, 2026, at City Dock and Annapolis Harbor in downtown Annapolis, Maryland.
Where is Adventure Yacht Sales located at the show?
Adventure Yacht Sales will be in Tent K, Booth 18.
How much are tickets to the Annapolis Sailboat Show?
General admission is currently $32, Preview Day is $55, youth admission is $10, and children 6 and under are free. Two-day ticket options are also available.
What types of boats will be at the Annapolis Sailboat Show?
The show features monohulls, multihulls, cruising sailboats, performance boats, racers, sailing dinghies, and more.
Is Preview Day worth it?
If you're seriously shopping for a boat, Preview Day can be a good option because it gives you an opportunity to explore before the main Friday-through-Sunday crowds. It is also more expensive at $55.
Has the Annapolis Sailboat Show layout changed in 2026?
Yes. The ongoing City Dock transformation has changed the show footprint and surrounding traffic patterns. Visitors should check the current 2026 map and allow additional time for parking and getting around downtown.
Conclusion
The 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show is shaping up to be another great fall event for sailors, cruisers, boat buyers, and anyone who loves being around boats.
You'll find new monohulls, cruising catamarans, performance boats, marine equipment, electronics, sailing education, charter companies, and plenty of opportunities to connect with people throughout the marine industry.
But if you're attending this year, remember that the show will look a little different because of the ongoing City Dock transformation. Plan your parking ahead of time, check the current map, give yourself extra time, and come prepared to walk.
And most importantly, come see us at Adventure Yacht Sales in Tent K, Booth 18.
Whether you're actively shopping for your next boat or simply starting to think about what's possible, we'd love to talk with you about your plans and help you navigate the next step.
Heading to Annapolis? Come say hello!
Stop by Adventure Yacht Sales at Tent K, Booth 18 during the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show. We'd love to meet you, talk boats, and hear about where your next adventure might take you.
Thinking about buying or selling a yacht? Contact Adventure Yacht Sales to start the conversation before, during, or after the show.