Events

Annapolis Sailboat Show Hottest in the Nation

Temperatures in the 90s make it feel like August on the Chesapeake

The Annapolis In-Water Sailboat Show is the premiere sailing show in the states.

Vistors to the show had plenty of boats to visit and lots of gear to inspect.

Sales of shorts and T-shirts were brisk while foul weather gear awaited offshore trekkers looking for deals before setting off for ports unknown. This year's show was so unlike the last several years where rain and more rain dampened more than spirits. This year's temperatures soared well into the 90s with high humidity to boot, something sailors look forward to leaving behind in October on the Chesapeake. Heated conversation about global warming took center stage.

But not to be daunted, sailors snapped up deals on watermakers, windvanes, new engines, new heads and new sails. The crowds were there and eager at this the worlds oldest and largest show of its kind. Pussers rum punch proved a popular refreshment as the parched sailors passed from tent to tent cooled by large fans that were hurriedly installed by the management to keep the exhibitors from overheating. (And by the way, we heard a rumor that new management four years in a row has made several vendors nervous about the future of the show.)

The seminars were well attended by snowbirds using the venue as a jumping off point for points south. Jimmy Cornell in particular gave very informative talks about his many circumnavigations, signing his new book for all who were interested.

The crowds were robust and the public transportation had some difficulty keeping up. The shuttle buses were running so slowly that many people hoofed it to Eastport Yacht Club for the fundraising event to benefit the Annapolis Maritime Museum. We had first tried to grab a water taxi to the first ever Lats & Atts and SSCA Cruisers' party, but upon taking our place in the cue and learning that it would be at least an hour before we reached the head of the line, we joined the folks heading over to EYC on foot.

The party at EYC was a fun event. The venue at EYC is great for a large gathering like this. There were two bands playing at all times, bars and BBQs were kept going continuously, raffles and prizes were abundant, and the dancing continued well into the night. The crowd was entertained by members of Them Eastport Oyster Boys, leading off with our favorite tune of theirs, Marina, Marina. All in all, a fun evening for a worthy cause. We could support a repeat performance at next year's show, but we'd suggest that all the party givers get together to schedule it so the cruisers can attend both parties! You know us cruisers...hate to miss a party.

Thanks to EYC, Lats & Atts, SSCA, and all the exhibitors and show organizers for a really productive and fun event.

Entertainment at the Eastport Yacht Club to benefit the new Annapolis Maritime Museum.