St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show: The Gulf Coast’s Largest Boat Show is Coming to Florida in January

St. Petersburg | Aarit Rao

If you’re a boating enthusiast, don’t miss the St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show. This is the Gulf Coast’s largest annual boat show, featuring sailboats and powerboats on both land and water. 

The boat show will be at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts-Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park from Thursday, January 18th to Sunday, January 21st. 

The event will feature both new and brokerage boats, including kayaks, yachts, sailboats, and center console fishing boats. And a 40,000-square-foot tent will offer a comprehensive collection of marine equipment and accessories. Additional attractions include kids’ fishing clinics, informative seminars, and on-water boat training courses, courtesy of both Progressive and the Annapolis School of Seamanship (ASOS). 

The courses presented include Basic Boat Operator, Junior Captains Program, and Women at the Wheel. U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains from the ASOS oversee all lessons and provide hands-on training. 

Also, captains and other industry experts will appear at this event to educate guests on topics such as powerboating, sailing, and fishing techniques through demonstrations and presentations. 

Captain Don Dingman, who has been confirmed for next month’s event, is an annual regular at the St. Petersburg Boat Show. Over the years, Captain Don has earned praise for his family-friendly seminars, enjoyable for both adults and children. His interactive Hook the Future: Kids Fishing Clinic features demonstrations, showcases an array of fish species, and offers every child a free custom rod and reel combo.

Throughout the St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show, attendees will have access to an assortment of delectable foods as well. The options include street tacos, hand-crafted hamburgers, Greek gyros, and more. To accompany your meal, you can choose a drink from a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. 

General admission is valid for a single day, with tickets priced at $22 each. Children ages 15 and under, veterans, and active members of the military can attend the event free of charge.