Annapolis Boat Show

The Annapolis Boat Show is just around the corner. Over the years a number of people have mentioned that they have always wanted to attend the Annapolis Show. I figured it would be appropriate to post a writeup of the event. We started going because our customers often go, so if you are going to be there please give us a shout!

To give a little context to the show, the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis is the largest, and oldest in-water boat show. Hosted in the downtown harbor of the sailing capitol of the US, the Annapolis Show is the most anticipated boat show in the country. Every year, manufacturers host their biggest and most impressive selection of boats and sailboat products in one location! For instance, Beneteau and Hunter often bring their entire line of boats! It is not uncommon to see the editorial staff at Cruising World, Sail Magazine, or Sail wandering around. Last year Don Casey was over at Bill Tomlinson's booth with Electric Yacht. Beneteau had famed designer Juan Kouyoumdjian, who designed the new First 30. If you are going to leave the midwest to go to a sailboat show, THIS IS THE ONE!

I have talked to a few of our manufacturers so far, it appears that Beneteau and Hunter will be bringing most of their boats. With a few new models that are worth highlighting.

Tartan: I am very excited by Tartan's offerings; they will have the new T4000, which I am particularly fond of. Also they are bringing another new model, the Tartan 4700, which was launched earlier this year. The boat is an extended Tartan 4400.

C&C: I have not heard about C&C's offering, but my guess will be the C&C 115.

Beneteau: Will have the new Sense 43, which is essentially a scaled down Sense 50... a very neat boat! Also they will have the new Oceanis 41 and 45, which were just launched recently. Those that missed the show last year as well as the Chicago Strictly Sail, will have the opportunity to see the First 30.

Hunter: Hunter has been slowly reworking their current lineup of boats. They will once again have the new H36e on display, the recently updated Hunter 39, and will have the newly redsigned H33e to show new this year. Also of interest is Hunter's involvement in electric motors. Last year they had an electric Hunter 27. I have heard rumors that either the Hunter 33 or 36 at the show will be an electric model.