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By Beth Rubin
Annapolis Boat Shows
Maryland.com
The 35th annual in-water U.S. Boat Shows will take over the Annapolis waterfront from Oct. 7-11 (Sail) and Oct. 14-17 (Power). The back-to-back shows, with their floating docks, luxury cruisers and tents full of technology and marine accessories will turn downtown into a sea of boat-loving humanity.
Courtesy Discovery Yachts The Discovery 55 debuts at the U.S. Sailboat Show Those not shopping for a larger, newer vessel will find hundreds of items to update their current models. The latest navigation aids, port-a-potties, can't-live-without items such as monogrammed polo shirts and cocktail napkins, and must-have accessories and gear (for boats and crews) will fill several tents. Yacht designers; representatives from marinas, repair, insurance and charter companies; clothing manufacturers, and authors of marine-related titles will all be on hand to schmooze.
Come sail away
Starring at the Sailboat Show will be the Discovery 55, a Ron Holland-designed luxury cruising boat geared to serious sailors who are ready to make their home on water for a year or longer. Built in Southampton, England, and first introduced in 2001, this will mark the 55's first appearance on this side of the pond. An elegant home away from home, yet easily handled by two, the boat can be rigged as a sloop or cutter. The main saloon has a raised dinette table from which diners can view the surrounding scene through the deck-saloon windows. Those standing watch from the raised chart table can keep an eye on the elements while being protected from them. The galley has more features than most contemporary kitchens, the berths feature custom mattresses and the helsmen's cockpit converts into a hot tub. For $950,000, it can be yours.Power to the people
The new-in-2004 Jefferson Yacht's 63-foot Pilothouse (with an extended saloon) will debut at the Powerboat Show. Captains are sure to like the convenience of having the electronics housed at the helm's command post in the forward pilothouse. Down below, the floor plan includes a spacious master stateroom and two guest staterooms, a galley with full-size appliances and plenty of interior space for family and friends. Jefferson, out of Jeffersonville, IN, has been building quality luxury motor yachts for 20 years. In Jefferson's fleet are luxury motor yachts from 35 to 95 feet and the ultimate high-tech fishing "boat," the Mariago. Smaller Jefferson yachts will be featured if you're not quite ready to captain the 63-foot model.Navigating the shows
If you're new to this, you're probably interested in sail or power. But if you’re not sure which way you swing, there are a few things you should know about the differing personalities and styles of powerboaters and sailors. Typically, powerboaters are Type A’s, favoring speed, comfort and air-conditioning. (Unless they’re fishermen, in which case all bets are off.) Powerboaters want to get there, wherever there is. They tend to dress up their shorts and bikinis with gold jewelry and tattoos and buy beer by the case. Sailors, on the other hand, are more interested in the journey. They favor threadbare T-shirts from their favorite watering holes, the occasional shower and calloused feet. They rarely wear jewelry because it's a hazard. Earrings and chains, not to mention nipple rings—Ouch!— can catch on lines, sheets and halyards (“ropes,” to landlubbers).But enough about jewelry. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate your way through the Annapolis Boat Shows, be you rag-topper (sailor) or stink-potter (powerboater).
Do your homework
Before the show, gather information. Read boating magazines, surf the Internet and talk to other boaters. If you don't know any personally, hang out at a marina and ask questions of the captains and first mates. They l-o-v-e to chat about their passion.
Analyze your needs
Courtesy Jefferson Yachts The Jefferson Pilothouse luxury cruiser.
Are you a day-tripper? Do you want to do overnights with your spouse and kids? Are you interested in racing? Do you want something that's low maintenance? If so, stay away from teak decks and trim.Consider size, galley set-up, navigation area and headroom. If you’re 5 foot 10 or over, this is crucial. Compare cockpit designs and bunk configurations. Investigate and compare the new features and technology in this year's models.
Know what the going price is, or at least have a ballpark figure in mind. Zero in on the model(s) you’re interested in. Then call the dealers to see if the boat(s) will be in the show. If the answer is negative, ask if you can see new models at local boatyards. As a group, brokers are knowledgeable, friendly and low-pressure. Advertised, lower-than-usual “boat show prices” may be in effect for a period after the show closes. To show that you're savvy, ask. If you don't ask, you don’t get.Be a VIP
Even if you’re a UIP (un-important person), it pays to cough up $30 to attend on VIP (opening) Day. This is when the show organizers target the press, manufacturers and serious buyers, as opposed to tire-kickers. There’s a method to their madness. Charging a higher admission on VIP Day keeps attendance lower and brokers can devote more time and attention to giving individual attention.Time it right
Arrive early—by 8:30am, if possible—at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium on Rowe Boulevard, where there’s ample parking and shuttle service to the show site a mile away. You’ll be among the first through the gates and face shorter lines to board the vessels. If you want to press flesh with the hordes, knock yourself out. Show up Saturday or Sunday at 2pm. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.Dress smart
Dress comfortably and wear non-skid soles. The floating docks and decks can be slick. Don't let the weather put a crimp in your sails. Tote lightweight raingear or a windbreaker, just in case. Carry essentials (keys, license and credit card, cash, comb) in your pockets or a zippered pouch that can be worn on your belt or around your neck. You'll pick up brochures, souvenirs and freebies (and bags to put them in) along the way.Take breaks
Walk through the Historic District, refuel at a fast-food stand or have a leisurely meal in one of the many restaurants downtown.General Information:
The 35th Annual U.S. Sailboat Show
Thursday Oct. 7 (VIP Day),10am-6pm; $30.
Friday Oct. 8-Sunday Oct. 10, 10am-7pm; $16 adults, $8 kids 12 and under.
Monday Oct. 11 (Columbus Day), 10am-5pm; $16 adults, $8 kids 12 and under.The 35th Annual U.S. Powerboat Show
Thursday, Oct. 14 (VIP Day) 10am-6pm; $30.
Friday, Saturday Oct. 15-16, 10am-7pm; $16 adults, $8 kids 12 and under.
Sunday Oct. 17, 10am-5pm; $16 adults, $8 kids 12 and under.Tickets: 410-267-6711
General Information: 410-268-8828; www.usboat.com.For general visitors information and accommodations:www.visit-annapolis.org.
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When not tethered to her pc, Annapolis writer/author Beth Rubin sails the Chesapeake. But she's not above cruising on a noisy stinkpot. The Boat Show is her favorite fantasy trip.
Other Stories by Beth Rubin
A Boat Show Survival Guide
Chick and Ruth's: An Annapolis Classic
In Annapolis, Special Events Abound Year-Round
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