For those of you waiting for Memorial Day to start the boating season – that’s just silly. It’s already begun for most of the river, and as boats are being removed from their nautical cocoons and getting their first buff and wax of the year, there’s one event coming up in early May that you don’t want to miss! Of course, we are talking about the annual DC Boat Show this May 3-5.
It all started (or rather re-started) last year, when the DC Boat Show resurrected itself in National Harbor. Before that, the last DC Boat Show was held in 2008 in the Washington Convention Center – which in hind-sight was kinda a sucky place to have it really.
If you didn’t get a chance to go last year, you really missed out. The turn-out for last year’s inaugural show was great, and we are sure this year is going to be even bigger! We were surprised how well the show was organized and having it right there on the water was absolutely perfect!
Just like many boat shows, this one features booths and displays from vendors all up and down the river, as well as international dealers. Of course there’s the requisite booze vendor booths liberally sprinkled around the show, to help you make the decision to buy that boat, motor, or whatever you are looking for to enhance your water-hoopty. We are hoping to see the Jameson bar there again this year! In addition to all that, they will have educational opportunities including a whole menu of classes and seminars to help you bone up on those boating skills, including one class from our pal Boat Mom Marine Instruction.
Pro-Tip: Even though all the National Harbor transient slips have been gobbled up, you can still get hotel rooms at the Hyatt or Marriott. Considering that this show tends to be a big party, it’s probably a good idea!
Of course we will be there too, running around half-drunk, passing out swag and stickers, so come on by and say hi!