2017 U.S. Sailboat Show a Big Success: Wow—what a show! The 2017 edition of the U.S. Sailboat Show in Annapolis, October 5-9, was exceptional. Impressive numbers of new boats, especially multihulls, warm temperatures, and big, enthusiastic crowds combined into a five-day show to remember.
At Friday morning’s Sail America meeting, 2016 Sailing Industry Distinguished Service Award recipient Margaret Podlich, former president of BoatU.S., bestowed the honor to 2017 recipients Peter Harken and brother Olaf (who was not present), founders of Harken.
Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, Jeanneau rolled out a particularly inviting display this year and won the best overall booth to show it.
What we may remember the most about this show was the incredible display of generosity when Annapolis Boat Shows and the marine industry joined together and formed Hands Across the Transom, a fundraising effort for hurricane victims that included a party on VIP day, donation boxes for “soggy dollars,” and online, ongoing donation opportunities for the organization and location of your choice. To date, this effort has raised more than $250,000.
Team SpinSheet was thrilled to meet our readers, enjoy popcorn happy hour, and see as many of our international boating friends as we could. See you next year at the show! ~M.W.
