The United States Sailboat Show starts in today Annapolis, Md., marking its 50 anniversary. “The in-water sailboat show was invented in Annapolis in 1970 and now, 50 years later, can celebrate not only being the only in-water, international all-sailboat show, but also the largest show in its history,” said the organizers about the event.
Show manager Sheila Jones said that many sailboat manufacturers will be launching new models for the U.S. market this week at Annapolis. They include the First Yacht 53, Excess 12, Hallberg-Rassy 48 MK II, Neel 47 Trimaran, Dufour 390 and 430, Tiwal 2, Amel 50, Hanse H675, Bali 5.4, Catalina 545, and Jeanneau Sunfast 3300.
The show will also have a fleet of RS21 keelboats supplied by the Premiere Sailing League USA. They will be raced in front of the show in exhibition-style races.
The American Sailing Summit is also presenting eight days of courses for experienced and novice sailors. Its “Take the Wheel,” sponsored by Jeanneau, lets buyers demo two sailboats of choice, compare one against the other, and narrow down the search for a new boat.
“This year is unparalleled when it comes to new and premiering boats,” said Jones. “We are pleased that so many manufacturers choose Annapolis to premier their new boat models and products.”
