Photo by Dan Stearns
The Anacortes Boat and Yacht Show was a major success, according to event organizers. This year was the show’s first, and based on the results, plans for next year’s show are already underway. Co-hosted by both Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA) and the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, the event took place May 17-20 at Cap Sante Marina in Anacortes.
“The show exceeded our wildest expectations,” said Stephanie Hamilton, the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce president. “Working with the staff [of the NMTA] has been wonderful – they are true professionals with warm hearts. We were blessed with perfect weather to showcase the boats and accessories – and all the guests were happy. Looking forward to next year!” More than 260 boats were on display at Cap Sante Marina and other boatyards, while 60 marine businesses filled a 10,000-square- foot tent at the location. Anacortes is located about halfway between Seattle and Vancouver B.C. and has 40 local marine businesses, making this a prime location for a boat show. Ticket sales reached a total of 5,214 over the four-day show, with attendees representing Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, Texas, Washington and British Columbia.
“All told, this was the most professionally organized and run and promoted show we have ever seen in Anacortes,” said Matthew Thornton, general manager and certified yacht broker at BananaBelt Boats & Yachts in Anacortes. “The fact we got 25 percent attendance of the Big Seattle Boat Show in just four days shows that Anacortes is indeed a splendid destination and a worthwhile show venue.”
Next year’s show has already been scheduled for May 16-19, 2019, so if you missed it this year, don’t miss the second Anacortes Boat and Yacht Show.
