The harbour remains the centre of the show
The powerboat exhibition runs from Thursday 8 October to Sunday 11 October, followed by the sailboat show from 15 to 18 October. Temporary floating docks extend into Spa Creek around Annapolis Harbour, keeping a distinctive in-water format despite ongoing work on the surrounding streets.
The City of Annapolis identifies 2026 as the 54th edition of the powerboat show and the 56th edition of the sailboat show. Buyers in the 12-to-23.99-metre market can compare cruiser layouts, helm protection and equipment in person, but should allow additional time to move between displays.
Owners arriving by water need to plan ahead
The city's guidance requires vessels wishing to anchor during the shows to register with the Annapolis Harbormaster. It also moves dinghy access to City Dock from the end of Prince George Street to Shipwright Street, a practical detail that may matter more than any change to ticketing for owners visiting by boat.
Normal access to Ego Alley is restricted during the exhibition period, with the city stating that no dockage is available there after 1 October. Visitors should seek confirmation of mooring availability and local directions before arrival rather than treating an old cruising-guide description as current.
The layout changes affect road access too
Construction and show setup impose parking limits and altered traffic arrangements during the period around 5–21 October. The city lists some residential-only areas, along with commercial parking choices and the option to leave a vehicle at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and use a shuttle.
For anyone meeting brokers or planning multiple sea-trial appointments, travel time is an operational consideration. A delay getting from a remote parking area to the docks can disrupt a tightly arranged schedule, particularly where access to a specific demonstration boat has been reserved in advance.
A visit should be treated as a comparison exercise
The exhibition brings together powerboats, yachts and marine suppliers, providing an opportunity to examine multiple vessels in relatively quick succession. Visitors should judge sightlines, boarding geometry, machinery access and the relationship between guest spaces, rather than accept showroom photographs as sufficient evidence.
The municipality's September release establishes the dates and access rules, while event exhibitors provide current on-water context. Owners should check updated notices before departure because harbour operations can change during a major temporary event; neither this article nor a promotional programme replaces directions from the Harbormaster.
Official sources: www.annapolis.gov; www.rangertugs.com.
