In October when the United States Sailboat Show fills Annapolis harbor with luxury sailing vessels, there will be an added emphasis on smaller affordable pocket cruisers that are easily transported and fun for families. Also, new to the Show, are sailing lessons and a grand prize sailboat giveaway making Annapolis the place to be on October 8-12, 2015.
For the first time sailing lessons will be offered at the United States Sailboat Show. Collaborating with Beneteau America, American Sailing Association, and Sailtime, the Annapolis Boat Shows is expanding the activities designed especially for those new to the sport of sailing. The hands-on workshop will include a 45-minute classroom session on the basics of sailing immediately followed by 90 minutes in the Annapolis Harbor. Advance registration is required.
“We are very pleased that beginning sailors can learn to sail from the docks of the United States Sailboat Show,” said Paul Jacobs, general manager and president of the Annapolis Boat Shows.
“For five days in October, the Annapolis City Dock becomes the candy land of sailing. In addition to premiering sailboats, brokered boats, and the world’s largest collection of multihulls, we are offering sailing lessons and giving away a Beneteau First 22 sailboat, plus there are more than 40 courses offered for cruisers, and the America’s Cup trophy will be on display Thursday and Friday. There is truly something for everyone,” Jacobs added.
One lucky sailor will win a Beneteau First 22, with a retail value of $29,900. Show goers who purchase their tickets online will be automatically entered to win, and all visitors to the Show may register onsite. Official rules at AnnapolisBoatShows.com.
The America’s Cup Trophy will be featured on Thursday October 8th, VIP Preview Day, and that evening with keynote speaker and America’s Cup host, Tucker Thompson, at the Premier Launch Party, an annual networking event to celebrate opening day. Attendees may also see the trophy on October 9th at the Sailboat Show.
“We hope to bring some of the excitement of the dramatic 34th America’s Cup win to this year’s Show as well as a look at the 35th Cup in Bermuda,” said Jacobs.
Recognized as the only sailboat show in which virtually every major sailboat manufacturer is represented, sailors have the unique opportunity to board and inspect most new models on the market, make side-by-side comparisons, and talk to industry representatives about all aspects of buying and owning a boat. Miles of docks are constructed to exhibit the largest collection of catamarans and trimarans in the world. Visitors also tour cruising sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.
In Vacation Basin, boat show enthusiasts will browse among dozens of charter companies, speak with tourism boards, explore fractional ownership, take advantage of boat show discounts, win valuable vacation-oriented door prizes, and explore adventure travel and exotic destination resorts.
The granddaddy of all sailboat shows, the United States Sailboat Show, has expanded its already large selection of new and premiering sailboats to include a floating marina called Brokerage Cove that will be overflowing with previously owned boats, presented by regional boat brokers and available for immediate sale.
Cruisers University, the most comprehensive curriculum on cruising and sailboat preparedness is now offered in the fall, sandwiched between the United States Sailboat Show and the United States Powerboat Show. Expert instructors will assist sailors plan their cruise, equip and maintain their sailboat, and ensure that they feel at ease heading out. Cruisers University offers one- to four-day tuition packages October 12 – 15, 2015 for live-aboard boaters. Course descriptions at www.CruisersUniversity.com
On-land exhibitors present the latest in sails, propulsions systems, navigational equipment, high-tech electronics, boating accessories, clothing, nautical gear, and related services such as boating clubs, charter companies, insurance firms, and lending institutions.
The United States Sailboat Show will continue to have old favorites such as Hendrick’s Gin Barge, Nobilo Wines Tasting Tent, free daily seminars on sailing presented by Chesapeake Bay Magazine, Annapolis School of Seamanship, and Cruising World Magazine, and Take the Wheel, a workshop and boat demo program that is nearly sold out.
SHOW INFORMATION
United States Sailboat Show
October 8-12, 2015
October 8, 2015 * VIP Preview Day * 10:00am – 6:00pm
October 9, 2015 * 10:00am – 6:30pm
October 10, 2015 * 10:00am – 6:30pm
October 11, 2015 * 10:00am – 6:30pm
October 12, 2015 * 10:00am – 5:00pm
VIP Preview Day (Oct. 8) $35
VIP Preview plus additional day – $48
General Admission – $18
Two-Day General Admission Ticket – $31
Children, ages 7-12 – $5 (6 and under free)
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