Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026: What to Expect, Boats, Tickets & More
Your complete guide to the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show, including boats on display, tickets, schedule, seminars, parking, the new show layout, and tips for boat buyers.
Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026: What to Expect
If you love powerboats, October is one of the best times to visit Annapolis.
From October 8–11, 2026, Annapolis City Dock will once again transform into a temporary marina for the Annapolis Powerboat Show. More than 350 boats are expected, along with marine electronics, accessories, boating gear, education, brokerage boats, food, drinks, and plenty of opportunities to get aboard and explore.
Whether you're actively shopping for your next boat, casually comparing models, or simply want to spend a fall weekend surrounded by boats, the show offers a lot to see.
And if you're planning to attend this year, there's one thing to know before you go:
The show will look different in 2026.
Ongoing construction around City Dock has changed the footprint, with exhibit tents relocated and expanded and portions of the show extending into surrounding downtown streets.
Here's what you need to know before you go.
When Is the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show?
The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show runs Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11 at City Dock in downtown Annapolis.
2026 Show Hours
Thursday is Preview Day.
If you're seriously shopping for a boat, Preview Day can be worth considering. The show is generally less crowded, which can make it easier to spend time aboard boats and talk with dealers and manufacturers.
What Boats Will Be at the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
This is obviously one of the biggest reasons to attend.
The 2026 show is expected to feature more than 350 boats, covering a huge range of styles and sizes.
You'll find everything from smaller trailerable boats and center consoles to cruising boats, trawlers and large luxury yachts.
Types of Boats to Expect
Depending on what you're shopping for, you'll see:
Center consoles
Dual consoles
Fishing boats
Family cruisers
Cabin cruisers
Express cruisers
Trawlers
Downeast-style boats
Motor yachts
Luxury yachts
Pontoon boats
Powercats
Inflatables and RIBs
Trailerable powerboats
Pre-owned brokerage boats
The current exhibitor boat list is still being updated, so the lineup can change as additional exhibitors are added.
That's actually one of the biggest advantages of attending a show like Annapolis: you can compare very different boats in one place.
Instead of looking at photos online, you can walk aboard, sit at the helm, look inside the engine room, check out the accommodations and get a better feel for how a boat is actually laid out.
New Boats and World Premieres
The Annapolis Powerboat Show is also a place to see new models before they become common on the docks.
One of the major 2026 debuts is the Askari 65, which is making its world premiere at the show. The 65-foot aluminum cruiser is designed for long-range cruising and is being promoted with a range of approximately 2,500 nautical miles.
Other new and premiering models are expected throughout the show, with the lineup continuing to evolve as manufacturers finalize their plans.
For example, Beneteau is bringing the Gran Turismo 50 for its official U.S. debut, along with other models including the Gran Turismo 35, Antares 9, Antares 11 Coupe and Flyer 10.
For anyone researching a new powerboat, this is a great opportunity to see what manufacturers are introducing for the upcoming model years.
It's Not Just New Boats
If you're shopping for a boat, don't overlook the brokerage section.
The show also includes pre-owned boats, giving buyers the opportunity to compare new models with previously owned boats in the same setting.
For many buyers, this can be especially useful.
A new boat might have the latest technology and finishes, while a well-maintained used boat may offer a different combination of equipment, upgrades, cruising experience and value.
Seeing both side by side can help you figure out what actually matters to you.
If you're considering buying, come with a list of priorities rather than a specific boat in mind. Think about how you plan to use the boat, where you'll cruise, how many people you'll typically have aboard and what systems or features are truly important.
Can You Actually Take a Boat for a Sea Trial?
In some cases, yes.
The PropTalk Demo Dock will offer sea trials on select boats during the show.
This is a particularly valuable opportunity for serious buyers.
Walking aboard a boat tells you a lot. But actually getting underway can tell you something completely different.
If you're interested in a sea trial, don't wait until the end of your visit. Ask the dealer early about availability and appointments.
Education and Seminars
The Annapolis Powerboat Show is about much more than walking the docks. Throughout the weekend, visitors can take advantage of free daily seminars, plus hands-on on-the-water training for those who want to build their boating skills.
Free Daily Seminars
The free seminar tent is located on the water near the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel. The 2026 lineup covers everything from navigation and electronics to cruising, boat buying and Chesapeake Bay destinations.
Here's a look at the current schedule:
Thursday, October 8
10:30–11:30 AM: Cruising the Canals of France and Scotland
11:45 AM–12:45 PM: How to Keep Your Boat Looking New All the Time!
1:00–2:00 PM: Propane Systems on Your Boat
2:15–3:15 PM: New to Boating? Discover What Navigation Apps Can Do for You
3:30–4:30 PM: TBD
Friday, October 9
10:30–11:30 AM: AIS Electronics for Boaters
11:45 AM–12:45 PM: Chesapeake Bay Odyssey: 23 Ports of Call with Historic Perspectives
1:00–2:00 PM: Planning Your Great Loop Adventure
2:15–3:15 PM: TBD
3:30–4:30 PM: Using Navigation Apps for Trip Planning
Saturday, October 10
10:30–11:30 AM: Professional Tips for Buying a Used Boat
11:45 AM–12:45 PM: Cruising the Great American Loop
1:00–2:00 PM: Catching Rockfish in 2026: Top Tactics and Tips
2:15–3:15 PM: Places to Cruise and Things to Do on the Upper Chesapeake Bay
3:30–4:30 PM: TBD
Sunday, October 11
The Sunday seminar schedule is still being finalized. The current schedule includes:
10:30–11:30 AM: TBD
11:45 AM–12:45 PM: TBD
1:00–2:00 PM: Weather 101 for Sailors
2:15–3:15 PM: TBD
Because additional seminars may be added or times may change, check the official Annapolis Boat Shows schedule before heading to the show.
On-the-Water Training
If you'd rather learn on the water than in a seminar tent, the show also offers hands-on training through the Chesapeake Boating Academy, the official partner for BoatUS on-the-water training.
The three-hour courses are taught by licensed USCG captains and are limited to four students, giving participants plenty of time at the helm. Current course options include:
Intro to Boating
Precision Docking and Boat Handling
Open Water Boat Handling
Women Making Waves — Intro to Boating
Women Making Waves — Precision Docking and Boat Handling
Courses are currently listed at $225 for a three-hour session and include free admission to the boat show on the day of the course.
A Few Events Beyond the Seminars
There are also a couple of other educational or hands-on opportunities worth knowing about.
The PropTalk Demo Dock returns with sea trials on select boats, giving prospective buyers the opportunity to experience a boat underway rather than simply walking through it at the dock.
And if you're interested in cruising beyond the Chesapeake, Cruisers University follows the Powerboat Show from October 12–16 at the Historic Inns of Annapolis. The program offers more than 75 classes covering subjects such as weather, navigation, passagemaking, diesel maintenance, electrical systems and trip planning for both sailors and powerboaters.
If You're Shopping for a Boat...
I'd specifically flag Saturday morning's “Professional Tips for Buying a Used Boat” seminar in the article. That's particularly relevant to the AYS audience and fits naturally with the buyer-focused angle of your guide.
What Else Will You Find at the Show?
Don't plan on spending your entire day looking at boats.
The show also features a large selection of marine products and services.
You'll find exhibitors selling and demonstrating things like:
Marine electronics
Navigation equipment
Safety equipment
Boat accessories
Foul-weather gear
Clothing
Tenders and inflatables
Outboards
Marine services
Financial services
Cruising products
Boating technology
In other words, it's a good place to research the boat lifestyle, not just the boat itself.
What's New About the 2026 Show Layout?
This is probably the biggest logistical change this year.
Ongoing construction at Annapolis City Dock has changed the traditional show footprint. Some of the familiar exhibit tents have been relocated, expanded or reoriented, while portions of the show extend farther into the surrounding downtown area.
There will also be four new bar and gathering areas throughout the show grounds.
Don't rely on an old boat show map.
Check the official 2026 show map before you arrive and grab an official Boat Show Guide when you enter. The layout has changed enough that this will make navigating the show much easier.
Official show map: View the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show map and show information
How Much Are Annapolis Powerboat Show Tickets?
Tickets are available online in advance.
Current 2026 ticket pricing includes:
The official ticketing portal currently lists these prices, including applicable fees, and tickets can be purchased online.
Buy tickets: Purchase tickets for the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show
Buying ahead of time can help you avoid waiting in line at the box office.
Where Is the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
The show is centered around City Dock in downtown Annapolis, Maryland, with boats and exhibits extending through the surrounding downtown waterfront area.
The location puts you right in the middle of historic Annapolis, which is part of what makes this show unique.
You can spend the morning walking the docks, grab lunch downtown, return to the show, and finish the day with dinner or drinks along the waterfront.
Parking at the Annapolis Powerboat Show
Parking can be one of the trickier parts of attending.
Downtown garages are available, but they can fill quickly during the show.
One option is parking at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and taking the free shuttle into downtown. Shuttles operate beginning one hour before the show opens and continue for one hour after the show closes.
Important Saturday change
On Saturday, October 10, stadium parking isn't available because of the Navy football game.
Instead, shuttle parking will be available at the Board of Education location at 2644 Riva Road.
If you're driving, plan your parking strategy before you arrive.
What Should You Bring?
The Annapolis Powerboat Show involves a lot of walking, dock time and boarding boats.
A few things can make your day much easier.
Wear comfortable shoes.
You'll be walking significantly more than you think.
And when you're boarding boats, you'll generally be asked to remove your shoes. Slip-on shoes make that much easier.
Dress in layers.
October weather in Annapolis can change quickly. A sunny afternoon can turn into a cool or rainy evening.
Bring:
Sunglasses
A light jacket or fleece
Rain layer
Comfortable shoes
Hat
Small backpack or tote
Bring a reusable water bottle.
Water refill stations are available throughout the show grounds.
And if you're shopping for a boat, bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes. After walking aboard 10 or 15 boats, they can start to blend together.
Going to the Show to Buy a Boat?
Then don't just wander.
Have a plan.
Before you arrive, make a short list of:
1. How you plan to use the boat
Fishing? Day boating? Weekend cruising? Long-distance cruising? The Great Loop?
2. Where you'll keep it
Your marina's slip size and draft restrictions can eliminate certain boats immediately.
3. How many people you'll typically have aboard
A boat for two people has very different requirements than one for a family of six.
4. Your realistic budget
Remember to consider insurance, storage, maintenance, fuel and upgrades—not just the purchase price.
5. Your must-have features
Think about engines, generators, electronics, sleeping accommodations, galley space, cockpit layout and accessibility.
Most importantly, don't feel like you have to make a decision on the spot.
Use the show to gather information, compare boats and narrow your choices.
Once you've identified a few boats you like, that's when a knowledgeable yacht broker can become especially valuable.
A Simple Strategy for Your Day
Trying to see everything at the Annapolis Powerboat Show in one day can be overwhelming.
Here's a simple approach:
Before You Arrive
Review the boat list and highlight the boats you absolutely want to see.
When You Enter
Grab the current show map and familiarize yourself with the new layout.
First
Go directly to the boats at the top of your list.
Next
Explore comparable models.
If you love one boat, look at two or three similar boats before making up your mind.
Take Notes
Record what you liked—and what you didn't.
Attend a Seminar
Pick one or two educational sessions that actually apply to your boating goals.
Leave Time to Explore
Some of the best discoveries happen when you're simply wandering the docks.
And if you're seriously shopping, schedule appointments with brokers or manufacturers ahead of time whenever possible.
Don't Forget to Enjoy Annapolis
One of the best things about the Annapolis Powerboat Show is that the show isn't isolated from the city.
It's right in the heart of historic Annapolis.
When you're finished walking the docks, you're steps away from restaurants, bars, shops and the waterfront.
There's also an Opening Night Party on Thursday, October 8 from 6–11 p.m., with participating downtown restaurants offering extended outdoor seating, special menus, drinks and live music.
So if you're traveling to Annapolis for the show, consider making a weekend of it.
Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026: Quick Reference
📅 Dates: October 8–11, 2026
📍 Location: City Dock, Annapolis, Maryland
🚤 Boats: 350+ expected
⏰ Thursday–Saturday: 10 AM–6:30 PM
⏰ Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM
🎟️ General Admission: $32
🎟️ Preview Day: $45
👧 Ages 7–15: $10
👶 Ages 6 and under: Free
⚓ Highlights: New boats, brokerage boats, sea trials, seminars, on-water training, marine products and more.
Final Thoughts
The Annapolis Powerboat Show is more than an opportunity to look at new boats.
It's a chance to compare different types of powerboats, talk with manufacturers and brokers, explore the latest marine technology, learn from experienced boaters and start putting your own boating plans into perspective.
And because the 2026 show has a new footprint, a little planning before you arrive will go a long way.
If you're actively looking for a boat, use the show as a research trip. Step aboard different models. Ask questions. Compare layouts. Take notes. And don't be afraid to walk away and think about what you saw.
The right boat isn't necessarily the one that catches your eye first—it's the one that makes sense for how you actually plan to use it.
FAQ
When is the Annapolis Powerboat Show in 2026?
The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show takes place October 8–11 at City Dock in Annapolis, Maryland.
How much are tickets to the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
2026 general admission is currently listed at $32, with Preview Day tickets at $45. Children ages 7–15 are $10, while children 6 and under are free.
What types of boats are at the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
The show features a wide range of powerboats, including center consoles, fishing boats, cruisers, trawlers, motor yachts, luxury yachts, pontoons, inflatables and more. More than 350 boats are expected in 2026.
Can I take a boat for a sea trial?
Sea trials are available on select boats through the PropTalk Demo Dock. Buyers should ask about availability and appointments early during their visit.
Is there parking at the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
Yes. Visitors can use downtown parking garages or park at designated shuttle locations and take a free shuttle to the show. Saturday, October 10 has a special parking arrangement because of the Navy football game.
Is the Annapolis Powerboat Show good for people who are buying a boat?
Yes. The show allows prospective buyers to compare numerous boats in one location, talk directly with manufacturers and brokers, inspect boats in person and, on select vessels, arrange sea trials. The show also includes a brokerage section for pre-owned boats.
Thinking about buying or selling a powerboat?
The Annapolis Powerboat Show is a great place to start—but navigating hundreds of boats, manufacturers and options can be overwhelming.
Adventure Yacht Sales helps buyers and sellers navigate the yacht purchasing process with knowledgeable guidance and personalized service. If you're heading to Annapolis with a boat purchase in mind, we'd love to help you make the most of your time at the show.
Ready to start your next adventure? Contact Adventure Yacht Sales to talk about your boat-buying goals.