The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show will take place from October 8–11 at Annapolis City Dock. Adult general admission tickets are $32, while Preview Day tickets are $45. Visitors should plan parking in advance, with options depending on the visit date, including downtown parking garages and designated park-and-shuttle arrangements. Featured boats to watch include Axopar, Targa, Pursuit, Sabre, Princess, and Palm Beach, although the complete boat list may still be updated.
When is Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026?
The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show is one of the major powerboat events held on the U.S. East Coast during the fall season.The show will take place from:
October 8–11, 2026
The venue remains centered around City Dock and Annapolis Harbor in the historic district of Annapolis.
According to current event information, the show schedule is:
| Date | Hours (Annapolis local time) |
|---|---|
| October 8–10 | 10:00 AM–6:30 PM |
| October 11 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM |
Visitors should confirm the final schedule with the official show information before traveling, as event details may change.
Unlike a traditional indoor exhibition, the Annapolis Powerboat Show uses an in-water format, allowing visitors to view boats directly at the docks and compare features such as hull design, helm layout, deck space, and interior arrangement.
For boats that allow boarding, guests may also step onboard to evaluate the actual use of space. Boarding access depends on each exhibitor’s arrangements, and some boats may require an appointment or a wait.
What Has Changed at City Dock for 2026?
City Dock is currently undergoing redevelopment, meaning the layout of this year’s show will not be exactly the same as previous editions.Show setup begins in late September, and from October 5–21, there will also be road closures, detours, and parking restrictions in downtown Annapolis.
In other words, even if you attended the Annapolis Powerboat Show last year, you should not assume that the following plan will remain unchanged:
Last year’s parking location → same walking route → same entrance → same boat viewing order
For first-time visitors, I would recommend treating the official show map and the latest boat list as equally important.
The map answers:“Where are the boats located?”
The Boat List answers:“Which boats do I actually want to see?”
Combining both is the most effective way to create a practical visit plan.
How Much Are Tickets for Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026?
Adult general admission tickets for the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show are currently $32. Visitors who want early access during Preview Day (October 8) can purchase tickets for $45.Children aged 7–15 are $10, while children 6 and under enter free.
| Ticket Type | 2026 Price | Valid Date |
|---|---|---|
| Preview Day | $45 | October 8 |
| Adult | $32 | October 9–11 |
| Child (7–15 years old) | $10 | October 8–11 |
| Child (6 years old and under) | Free | October 8–11 |
Visitors can choose between Preview Day and public opening days depending on their goals. Preview Day may be suitable for those who want to view target boats earlier, speak with exhibitors, or arrange appointments in advance, while public days remain suitable for general viewing.
The regular public opening days from October 9–11 already provide access to the main exhibition areas and in-water powerboat displays.
“Preview Day” is better suited for visitors who want to start viewing boats as early as possible or who already have a specific boat in mind. For visitors planning to compare multiple brands and board different boat models, preparing a list of boats in advance is usually more valuable than simply spending extra money to stay an extra day.
In addition, October 11 is Military Day, and eligible military personnel can check the official ticket information for applicable offers and requirements.
Before purchasing tickets, it is recommended to confirm the latest ticket categories, prices, and entry conditions through the official ticketing page.
Where to Park for the Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026
Parking planning is one of the most important things to prepare in advance this year.From October 5–21, there will be road adjustments and parking restrictions around City Dock and the Historic District. Some streets will have limited parking availability, so it is not recommended to arrive and search for a street parking space at the last minute.
Downtown Parking
If you want to park as close as possible to the exhibition area, you can consider:- Hillman Garage
- Knighton Garage
- Gotts Court
- Park Place
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
For visitors driving from outside Annapolis, another option is the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium parking area with free shuttle service to Downtown.
According to the City of Annapolis announcement, the published parking rates are:
| Parking Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Same-day parking | $30 |
| Advance reservation | $25 |
| Oversized vehicles | $45 |
| Shuttle to Downtown | Free |
Saturday, October 10 requires special attention.
Published show guidance directs visitors to the Board of Education parking site at 2644 Riva Road for that day, with parking available for $20 (cash only). Visitors attending on Saturday should confirm the latest parking location and shuttle arrangements before traveling rather than assuming the same parking plan applies across all show dates.
How Should First-Time Visitors Explore Annapolis Powerboat Show?
For first-time visitors, it helps to shortlist the boats you want to see before arriving at City Dock. Rather than boarding the first boat with an open spot, a more efficient approach is to identify your target models first and then compare them in a planned sequence.A more practical approach is to follow this order: “First, identify the brands and models you’re interested in, then compare them in a planned sequence.”
Check the Official Map First, Then Plan Your Route
Before you go, open the official Show Map and the latest Boat List, and mark the boats you really want to see. You can filter by size—such as the 40-foot class, 50-foot class, or 60 feet and up—or by category, such as sport boats, cruisers, or luxury powerboats.If it’s your first time attending the show, don’t try to see every boat in a single day. Instead of rushing through dozens of boats, pick 5–8 key vessels and carefully compare their cockpits, salons, galleys, cabins, bathrooms, and stern areas.
Once You Arrive, Start With the In-Water Display Area
If your main goal is to view the boats, prioritize the in-water display. This is the best place to directly compare the actual dimensions and layouts of different brands.For example, with powerboats like Axopar, Targa, and Pursuit, focus on the helm design, deck space, and outdoor activity areas; if you’re interested in larger vessels and a luxury cruising experience, save brands like Sabre, Princess, and Palm Beach for the latter half of your tour.
When boarding a boat, don’t just look at the interior finishes. On your first visit, pay special attention to the following:
- Visibility from the helm and the control layout
- Whether the deck layout allows for smooth movement
- The actual space in the salon and galley
- The dimensions of the cabins and bathrooms
- How the stern and swim platform are utilized
- Whether there is sufficient onboard storage space
Save Time for a Second Round of Comparisons
If you’re serious about buying a boat, we recommend not spending your entire last hour simply “scrolling through” more boats.Instead, return to a few key boats you’ve already boarded and compare them again. This is especially true for models that are similar in size and price range—after stepping back into the helm and cabins a second time, you’ll more easily spot the real differences.
Simply put, for your first visit to the Annapolis Powerboat Show, follow this sequence: “Filter using the official map → Focus on key models → Board and compare → Review your top picks a second time.” This approach makes it easier to identify the boats you’re truly interested in within a limited timeframe, rather than simply walking the length of the pier.
What Boats Should You See at the Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026?
According to the currently published 2026 boat list, Axopar, Targa, Pursuit, Sabre, Princess, and Palm Beach can all be included on a priority viewing list.The following models are a selected viewing list rather than a complete exhibitor list. Boat availability and locations may continue to change, so visitors should confirm the latest official boat list before attending.
| Brand | Models | Location | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axopar | 29 / 38 / 45 | Dock A1 | Helm station, visibility, deck space |
| Targa | 37 / 41 / 46 | Dock A1 | Helm layout, enclosed areas, cruising design |
| Pursuit | OS445 | Dock B | Aft deck, helm station, leisure functions |
| Sabre | 43 / 45 / 51 | Dock F2 | Salon, galley, cabins |
| Princess | V50 | Confirm latest map | Luxury features, cabins, outdoor spaces |
| Palm Beach | PB55 | Dock F2 | Cruising layout, interior space |
Princess V50 Deck
- Length52.06 ft
- Cabins2
- Top speed31 kn
- TypeSport yacht
Princess V50 Deck is a classic 50-foot luxury sports yacht from the V-Class series of Britain’s Princess Yachts, focusing on flexible handling and luxury leisure, and is a best-selling model in the mid-to-large luxury yacht market. The hull is made of high-strength fiberglass with a deep-V hull design, equipped with twin Volvo diesel engines, balancing power and stability. The interior is bright and modern with a flexible layout, available in open or enclosed main deck configurations, and is equipped with complete entertainment facilities, comfortably accommodating 6-8 people.
Request Price
Axopar and Targa: Focus on Helm Design and Deck Layout
If you are comparing Axopar and Targa models, focus on helm visibility, deck arrangement, storage solutions, and how each layout supports your intended boating style.For weekend boating and short cruising trips, these details often provide more practical value than promotional photos.
Pursuit: See Whether the Functional Space Really Works
For Pursuit, it is worth looking at the boat from a practical-use perspective.If you are interested in family boating, day cruising, or fishing, pay close attention to:
- Helm layout
- Aft deck design
- Seating arrangement
- Storage space
Sabre: Compare the Interior Layout
If the earlier boats you viewed were mainly focused on sport-oriented or functional designs, Sabre is where you can shift your attention toward interior living space.The salon, galley, cabins, and bathrooms are all worth examining carefully.
When two boats have similar dimensions, one of the biggest differences often comes from how each builder chooses to use limited interior space.
Princess and Palm Beach: Compare Larger Powerboat Options
Princess and Palm Beach can be useful comparisons for visitors considering larger cruising layouts. Instead of following a fixed route, compare these models based on your target size, onboard space requirements, and intended usage.If you already have a clear budget range, it is helpful to compare several similar-size yachts together rather than focusing only on one specific brand.
After the show, if you have already identified the sizes and brands you are interested in, you can continue comparing similar vessels through yacht listings.
The show is best used as a way to narrow your choices, rather than making a final purchase decision immediately.
View Princess Yachts for Sale
What Should Buyers Compare at the Show?
If you’re attending the Annapolis Powerboat Show not just to browse but because you’re already considering buying a boat, the value of this event lies in comparing your actual boating needs with powerboats of different sizes, layouts, and features.Different boat-buying needs mean different priorities at the show.
| Buying Need | What to Focus on During the Show |
|---|---|
| Weekend boating and short-distance cruising | Helm station, deck layout, storage, and handling arrangement |
| Family leisure boating | Cabins, bathrooms, galley, and indoor/outdoor living space |
| Fishing and outdoor activities | Aft deck, storage, activity space, and helm design |
| Long-range cruising | Cruising capability, fuel capacity, cabins, and living areas |
| Luxury experience | Salon, cabins, outdoor areas, and overall equipment |
| Clear purchasing budget | Real differences between boats of similar size and price range |
If Primarily Used for Weekend Outings
Buyers in this category do not necessarily need a large yacht. Rather than simply pursuing length, it’s more worthwhile to focus on the view from the helm, deck flow, ease of boarding and disembarking, and whether daily maintenance and storage align with your personal habits.When viewing boats in person, focus on comparing 30–40-foot powerboats to see which layouts are truly suited for short trips lasting two or three days.
Browse 30–40 Foot Powerboats
If Primarily Used for Family Cruising
Family buyers should focus on how comfortable the living spaces are.Beyond the number of cabins, you should also experience firsthand the salon, galley, bathrooms, and how the interior and exterior spaces flow together. For those planning to spend several days or even longer at sea, the living space on board is often more important than mere exterior design.
This is why boarding boats at a boat show is so valuable—yachts of the same length can have completely different approaches to interior space utilization.
If You Want to Balance Deep-Sea Fishing and Leisure
If your planned activities include deep-sea fishing, day trips, and family gatherings, then the aft deck, helm station, and outdoor activity areas are worth comparing in detail.These needs aren’t necessarily tied to a specific brand; instead, you should focus on the functional layout of the specific model: Is it convenient for fishing? Is it comfortable for family relaxation? Is there sufficient storage space for gear and supplies?
If You’re Looking for a Larger Cruising Yacht
For buyers with a clear budget and size in mind, the Annapolis Powerboat Show serves as an excellent opportunity to evaluate actual boats in person.Especially for powerboats over 50 feet, focus on how different models utilize the increased hull space—including the cabin, salon, galley, helm, and outdoor areas.
After visiting the show, compare the models you viewed on-site with yacht listings on the market to gain a better understanding of price and configuration differences among boats of the same size, brand, and year.
View Yacht Listings for Sale
If You Haven’t Decided on a Specific Boat Yet
In fact, this is another type of boat-buying need for which the Annapolis Powerboat Show is particularly well-suited.If you know you want to buy a powerboat suitable for family weekend outings but haven’t decided on the size, brand, or layout, comparing different models in person will help you form a clearer concept than simply filtering through dozens of listings online.
Start by answering these three questions:
How will you use it? Weekend outings, deep-sea fishing, family cruises, or long-distance voyages?
How many people will be using it? Will it be mainly for two people, a family, or will you often invite friends?
What is your budget? In addition to the purchase price, you’ll need to consider ongoing maintenance, mooring, insurance, and operating costs.
Once you’ve answered these three questions, you can revisit the specific boat models you saw at the show—your search will be much clearer than if you were simply filtering by brand.
What Should You Do in Advance for the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
If you’ve decided to attend the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show, we recommend confirming a few key details before you leave. Especially this year, with road and parking changes around City Dock, last-minute arrangements can easily waste your time at the show.Buy Tickets in Advance
Don’t wait until you arrive on-site to buy tickets. It’s much easier to confirm your ticket type in advance, especially for Preview Day or peak dates.Save the Official Boat List
This is the most important step. New boats and exhibitors are still being added to the official 2026 Boat List, so it’s best to check it again before you leave.Pick 5–10 Yachts You Really Want to See
Don’t list 50. If your list has 50, you’ll likely end up not taking a good look at any of them.Plan Your Route by Dock
For example, plan your route by dock and prioritize the boats that match your interests. Grouping nearby exhibitors together can help reduce unnecessary walking, but the final order should depend on your target models, appointment times, and the latest show map.Decide on Parking Arrangements in Advance
If you’re driving—especially on October 10—you should confirm your parking plan for that day well in advance.Allow Plenty of Time for Boarding
This is the most important point. Viewing a boat isn’t just about taking photos.What really takes time is boarding the boat, sitting at the helm, inspecting the cabin, comparing layouts, and talking with the dealer.
Conclusion
The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show is valuable because it allows visitors to compare real boat layouts, dimensions, and helm ergonomics with their intended use. Whether you are researching your first powerboat or comparing larger cruising options, the show can help narrow your choices before making a purchase decision.After identifying suitable models, you can continue comparing available powerboats for sale by brand, size, configuration, and pricing.
Powerboats for SaleAbout the Author
Jelly
Jelly is a contributor at YachtTrading, focusing on yacht events, boat selection topics, and practical information related to yacht ownership and the marine market.
Last reviewed: 30 September 2026
Disclaimer
Event dates, ticket prices, parking arrangements, and exhibitor information may change. Please confirm the latest details through official event sources before traveling.
References and Official Information
City of Annapolis – 2026 Fall Power & Sailboat Shows Announcement
Annapolis Boat Shows – Official Powerboat Show Information
2026 Exhibitor Boat List
PropTalk – Annapolis Powerboat Show Guide
FAQ
Q1: When is the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show?
A: The 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show will take place October 8–11, 2026, at Annapolis City Dock. October 8 is Preview Day, and October 9–11 are General Admission days.
Q2: How much are tickets for the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show?
A: The officially announced ticket prices are $45 for adults on Preview Day and $32 for general admission adults; children ages 7–15 pay $10, and children 6 and under are admitted free. The ticket price for Military Day on October 11 is $22; specific eligibility requirements are subject to the official ticketing page.
Q3: Where can you park for the Annapolis Powerboat Show?
A: You can choose from city-operated parking garages such as Hillman, Knighton, Gotts Court, and Park Place, or consider parking at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and taking the free shuttle bus. On Saturday, October 10, the organizers have also arranged for parking at the Board of Education parking lot.
Q4: Where can I find the Annapolis Powerboat Show 2026 boat list?
A: The official 2026 Exhibitor Boat List is now available online, and new exhibiting boats will continue to be added. It’s best to check it again before you go to confirm the specific boat models and dock locations you’re interested in.
Q5: What boats should I see at the 2026 Annapolis Powerboat Show?
A: Notable models currently featured on the official list include the Axopar 29/38/45, Targa 37/41/46, Pursuit OS445, Back Cove 372/39O, Sabre 43/45/51, Princess V50, Palm Beach PB55, Vicem 62FB, and Askari 65.