Since 1970, the Annapolis Boat Show has been a highlight of the fall boating season. What began as a sailboat-only event has grown into two separate weekend showcases—one dedicated to sailboats and the other to powerboats—held on consecutive weekends each fall. This year’s powerboat lineup features some 360 models from a wide range of builders, with Annapolis serving as the unveiling ground for several new designs and manufacturers. The show remains one of the most important events for boat buyers, anglers, and boating enthusiasts who want to compare models, explore new technology and materials, and see the latest trends in design and propulsion.
2024 Sportsman Open 252 CC
The 2024 Sportsman Open 252 CC is a versatile, family-oriented center console that blends comfortable cruising amenities with genuine offshore fishing capability. Designed to be trailerable, the 252 CC appeals to owners who prefer the flexibility of trailering instead of relying on a permanent slip or mooring. Its hardtop integrates lighting, speakers, and rod holders for fishing and entertaining, and the layout offers practical seating and storage to support day trips, family outings, and serious angling. Buyers can specify single or twin-engine configurations to match their performance and range preferences, making this model a flexible choice for coastal cruising and inshore to nearshore fishing.
AluminusRay
AluminusRay is a builder specializing in custom aluminum boats ranging from 17 to 30 feet. Their boats are constructed from 5083 marine-grade aluminum, a material known for corrosion resistance and durability in marine environments. AluminusRay’s production approach combines modern digital design with skilled craftsmanship: each hull is modeled in 3D before parts are precision-cut on CNC machines and then hand-welded by experienced fabricators. The result is a line of sturdy, tailored aluminum boats that are built to meet the specific needs of owners who value longevity, low maintenance, and customization options for fishing, workboat duties, or recreational use.
Candela C-8
The Candela C-8 stands out at the show for its use of electric propulsion combined with hydrofoiling technology. Rather than plowing through the water, the C-8 rises onto foils to reduce drag, improving efficiency and delivering a notably smooth ride. Powered by a 69-kWh battery pack, the C-8 is presented as an electric boat with extended range capabilities compared with many earlier electric designs; Candela markets the model as having one of the longest ranges available among electric leisure boats. The C-8 is offered in configurations that include a center console and a day cruiser layout, making it suitable for buyers interested in quiet, emission-free operation without sacrificing performance or comfort.
Contender 26BAY
The Contender 26BAY builds on the success of Contender’s 25BAY, introducing an extended layout with an integrated transom bustle and an emphasis on fishing functionality. Designed for serious anglers and weekend boaters alike, the 26BAY offers abundant stowage for gear, practical seating arrangements, and features that support offshore and inshore fishing trips. The hull and deck layout are optimized for both stability at rest and performance underway, and the boat can be equipped with engines up to 400 horsepower, giving anglers the speed and reliability needed to reach productive fishing grounds quickly.
Regal LS9
Regal Boats introduced the LS9 as a contemporary dayboat aimed at owners who prioritize entertaining, comfort, and style. The LS9 combines social cockpit spaces, comfortable seating, and thoughtful onboard amenities so that owners can host family and friends for day cruises without sacrificing creature comforts. Buyers will have a choice among multiple power packages, with offerings from established engine manufacturers such as Volvo and Mercury Mercruiser, allowing customers to tailor drive systems to their desired balance of performance, efficiency, and serviceability.
The Annapolis Powerboat Show remains a prime destination for anyone researching a new boat or simply keeping up with design and technology trends. From aluminum workboats to electric foiling craft and versatile center consoles, this year’s show highlights the industry’s breadth—new materials, propulsion systems, and layouts—to meet a wide range of boating lifestyles. Whether you’re focused on fishing capability, family-friendly dayboating, or cutting-edge electric propulsion, Annapolis continues to be a useful venue to see models in person, speak with builders, and compare the latest offerings side by side.