By Ryan Gullang
The Annapolis Sailboat Show, October 9th‑12th, is charting a bold course for 2025 with a lineup that’s bigger, more dynamic, and more engaging than ever. From world premieres and a record‑setting multihull fleet to fresh programs and a reimagined layout, this year’s show offers more boats, more action, and more reasons to dock in Annapolis. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy at America’s premier international sailing event.
Refit My Ride
Annapolis Boat Shows is partnering with Oakcliff Sailing to bring attendees a multi‑day hardware installation demonstration. In true “Pimp My Ride” fashion—but with far more fiberglass and fewer fuzzy dice—”Refit My Ride” will showcase the transformation of a well‑worn Farr 40 into a race‑ready showpiece, right in the middle of the Annapolis Sailboat Show.
Led by Oakcliff Sailing’s team of rising stars and marine experts, this live, interactive demo will spotlight real‑world refits using products donated by Annapolis Boat Show exhibitors. Upgrades include everything from Harken hardware to a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet with social media coverage and on‑site presentations throughout the weekend.
Blue, one of Oakcliff’s hardworking training boats, has sailed thousands of offshore miles with dozens of future captains and marine pros aboard. Its revitalization represents not just a cosmetic makeover, but a commitment to education, marine careers, and the sustainability of existing fleets.
Attendees can stop by throughout the show to see the project in action, meet the team, and collect tips for refitting their own ride. Whether you’re a cruiser, racer, or serial DIY‑er, this activation promises hands‑on inspiration—and a few good laughs along the way.
Boat Show Brew
The Annapolis Boat Shows are proud to welcome Boat Show Brew as the official beer of both the 2025 Annapolis Powerboat Show and the 2025 Annapolis Sailboat Show. Brewed in collaboration with local favorite Pherm Brewing Company, this crisp, crowd‑pleasing pilsner does more than toast the boating lifestyle—it helps fund it.
Proceeds from the Boat Show Brew launch party will go directly to the EYC Foundation’s Marine & Maritime career initiatives, supporting the Foundation’s efforts to promote careers in the marine trades and maritime sciences. The all‑volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit awards more than $50,000 in scholarships annually and is committed to opening doors for the next generation of Chesapeake Bay stewards and marine professionals.
Largest Show Yet
The City of Annapolis is undergoing a transformative redevelopment of its historic City Dock, the waterfront home of the Annapolis Boat Shows. This multi‑phase project aims to enhance resiliency against sea level rise, create a more vibrant public space, and preserve the area’s maritime heritage. When complete, the revitalized dock will serve as a year‑round community hub while continuing to host the world’s premier in‑water boat shows.
While construction will be halted for the duration of the show, the show layout still had to be thoughtfully adjusted to accommodate the project. The Dock Street entrance to the show had to be completely reimagined—allowing for a more open entryway into the event. With the removal of the Harbor Master’s Office, the overall footprint has temporarily expanded. The additional space is a welcome consequence. This year’s show is expected to feature well over 500 exhibitors and 150 boats.
Over 50 Catamarans
The 2025 Annapolis Sailboat Show will host more than 50 multihulls representing 24 manufacturers from around the globe. From sleek performance trimarans to 60‑foot luxury catamarans, the lineup spans the full spectrum: as compact as the Dragonfly 36, midsize cruisers like the FP44, powerfully proportioned large cats such as the Lagoon 60, and even solar‑sail hybrids. Docked and showcased side by side, this fleet gives attendees a rare apples‑to‑apples chance to compare build quality, layout, performance, and innovation — all in one venue. Whether you’re a seasoned multihull enthusiast or curious about what life aboard a catamaran or trimaran might offer, this year’s selection promises something for every taste and budget.
23 US & World Premieres
This year’s show features three world premieres and 20 North American debuts, offering attendees a rare opportunity to step aboard the newest models before they appear anywhere else on the continent. From all‑electric catamarans and refined monohulls to high‑performance trimarans and modern daysailers, the lineup reflects the latest trends in performance, comfort, sustainability, and smart design.
Fan‑Favorite Programs Return
In addition to a stunning fleet of new boats, this year’s Annapolis Sailboat Show brings back a full slate of fan‑favorite programs designed to inspire, educate, and connect the sailing community. These returning features offer something for every level of sailor—from the curious to the committed.
Cruisers University anchors the week with one of the country’s most comprehensive liveaboard training programs, offering hands‑on instruction in everything from celestial navigation to diesel maintenance. Inside the show gates, Free Daily Seminars return with expert‑led talks covering cruising routes, boat ownership, safety, sustainability, and more.
Vacation Basin, sponsored by Cruising World, remains the hub for chartering and adventure travel, while Cruisers Creating Content brings together popular bloggers, podcasters, and YouTubers to share stories and advice from life afloat.
Back by popular demand, the VIP Experience offers a comfortable, catered escape from the crowds with a well‑stocked bar, gourmet bites, and plenty of shade—plus all‑day access to the show. Whether you’re dreaming of bluewater passages or just dipping your toe into the lifestyle, these programs make the Annapolis Sailboat Show more than a marketplace—it’s a celebration of sailing itself.