Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show draws rave reviews by businesses and visitors

Visitors and exhibitors to the newest boat show in the region draws plenty of positive response during the four-day event

ANACORTES – The new Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show held on May 17-20 at the Port of Anacortes’ Cap Sante Marina exceeded expectations with an attendance of 5,214, and those in attendance and the boating industry are already looking forward to 2019!

With 263 boats on display at Cap Sante Marina and nearby boatyards plus 60 marine businesses filling the 10,000-square foot tent – the Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA), Anacortes Chamber of Commerce and Port of Anacortes – teamed up to provide a very successful show at the heart of a beautiful waterfront community and gem of all marinas.

“The show exceeded our wildest expectations,” said Stephanie Hamilton, the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce president. “Working with the staff of (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!”

Boat dealers and brokers were very happy with boat sales and turnout at the show. E-tickets were purchased in 15 different U.S. states and Canada, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, Texas, Washington and British Columbia.

“The Anacortes Boat and Yacht show was fantastic right out of the gate,” said Kelly Hawley, owner of Tom-n-Jerry’s Boat Center and Master Marine in Mount Vernon. “Good weather, great attendance and most importantly strong sales. For the first attempt at a show of this magnitude in Anacortes I was pleasantly surprised and already planning for next year.”

“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. “Anacortes is indeed a splendid destination and a worthwhile show venue.”

Anacortes is conveniently located between Seattle and Vancouver B.C. The Anacortes area has more than 40 marine-related businesses to cover every boater’s wants and needs.

About the Northwest Marine Trade Association

The NMTA is the nation’s largest regional marine association. It represents more than 700 companies in the recreational boating industry, including boat dealers, boat brokers, marinas, boatyards, manufacturers, retailers and suppliers of boating accessories and services. The NMTA’s mission is to promote the growth of recreational boating and members’ businesses. The NMTA produces the Seattle Boat Show, the West Coast’s largest boat show and the Northwest Paddling Festival. Details: http://www.nmta.net/

About the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce

The Anacortes Chamber of Commerce is a member-based organization representing 500 businesses, community organizations and interested individuals. Its mission is to promote economic prosperity through innovative leadership, advocacy and collaborative community engagement. The Anacortes Chamber of Commerce also acts as the Destination Marketing Organization promoting to the travelling public and greeting guests to encourage them to Experience Anacortes…your island getaway. Details: https://anacortes.org/