The show featured an entirely new tented arena structure covering two large city parking lots, expanded floating docks, 30,000 square feet of new land space, a floating pavilion for the LH Finance sponsored VIP Red Carpet Lounge, and 573 boats from around the globe in every size and shape.
“Despite uncooperating weather we saw a 40 percent increase in deals written at the show with lots of deals still in the works. Overall it was the best show in this region that we have been part of in the past five years,” said Bryan Braley of Grande Yachts International.
Throngs of people filled the display tents and the coffers of nearly 500 vendors of marine product and lifestyle items. John Riccardi of Hat Trick Embroidery had his “Best show in ten years.”
Hospitality food and drink venues echoed with merry making and fun. Water taxis stayed in constant motion between the docks of the main show and nearby Brokerage Cove, home to 55 “previously loved” boats.
More than $250,000 was raised in an effort to support the maritime industry hardest hit by the destruction of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Annapolis Boat Shows launched “Hands Across the Transom Hurricane Relief” as a community effort that included more than two-dozen exhibitors, many like-minded Annapolis businesses, and hundreds of boaters who all came together to raise funds for hurricane relief.