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The Fall Boats Afloat Show docks at Seattle’s Lake Union Piers at South Lake Union Sept. 12-15, spotlighting the decade’s biggest line-up of outstanding motor yachts, a variety of sailboat offerings, luxury cruisers, high-performance craft, rugged fishing models and much more. The show will feature a number of craft making their debut at the show.
With more than 150 world-class craft on display, the show offers plenty to see and explore including quality shoreside exhibitors. Showgoers can learn about the latest innovations in accessories and marine services while the Dockside Marketplace features products by nautical-inspired artisans. Showgoers can take advantage of free educational seminars, hands-on activities for children (the show is free for children 12 and under), daily entertainment, tasty food offerings and much more.
Presented by the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association (NYBA) since 1978, this boating tradition offers lively “go-to” opportunity to learn about the latest boating lifestyle and technology trends.
“Boats of Note” include major introductions
The show’s “Boats of Note” represent the latest, distinctive boating designs - including several models making their U.S. or Northwest debut. Head-turning examples include the regional introduction of 86-foot Sanlorenzo SL 86 presented by Worth Avenue Yachts. The high-style floating masterpiece embodies the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship, seamlessly blending innovative engineering and performance.
The largest motoryacht in the show, the luxurious 105-foot Ocean Alexander 32L is a roomy five-stateroom beauty with many of the same features found in much larger “superyachts,” including a magnificent open flybridge and spacious skylounge.
Marking its debut in North America, the Targa 41 from Cardinal Yacht Sales offers a brand-new experience in offshore boating with highly customizable features emphasizing improved comfort and smart design.
New to this market, the Fleming 58 Pilothouse Motoryacht from Chuck Hovey Yachts is renowned for its robust construction, elegant design, modern amenities and superior performance. Presented by Rock Harbor Boats, the first Antares 12 on the West Coast represents forward-thinking advances in equipment, comfort and elegance.
Oaksmith Yachts will unveil the highly anticipated Jasper Marine Defender 22 in its exclusive U.S. debut with its perfect blend of rugged durability, cutting-edge design and unmatched versatility, while Irwin Yacht Sales presents the rarely seen multi-purpose Blackfin 232DC that easily accommodates fishing enthusiasts and family activities.
Our region loves its houseboats, and Marine Service Center presents the Modern 11 from LaMare Houseboats. With light-filled European flair, this spacious houseboat is ideal for 4 to 6 people.
How-to advice, family fun and more
Free to showgoers, area experts share the latest information on boating trends, technology and destinations in engaging seminars. Speakers and topics include Bob Whale, “Boating Up to Alaska;” Scott Irwin, “Cruising Lifestyle - Is It For you?”; Ryan Davis, “First Aid”; Aaron Barnett, “Pump out and Pollution Prevention” and Courtney Wingard, “Insurance 101.”
The Center for Wooden Boats will host “Kid’s Toy Boat Building” from noon to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. It is free, with all the materials provided.
Live music complements the dockside festivities with top local talent taking the stage each day of the show. Performers include the U Family Band, Stanley Alleyne (Thursday, Sept. 12); Doug Rusk (Friday, Sept. 13); Edmonds/Woodway High School Jazz Quartet, The Jewel Tones (Saturday, Sept.14) and Edmonds/Woodway High School Jazz Quartet, The Wednesday Club (Sunday, Sept. 15).
Salmon for Soldiers (salmonforsoldiers.org) returns as the show’s Official Charity Partner as it provides free fishing activities throughout the year for veterans and active-duty military personnel. With a mission to reduce stress and create new relationships through boating and fishing, showgoers can show their support by purchasing raffle tickets for a variety of prizes.
While strolling the docks showgoers’ tastebuds will be tempted by fresh seafood, hot dogs, donuts, coffee, pastries and ice cream, with an outdoor bar serving craft beers, wine and pre-mixed cocktails.
New this year, the Opening Day Ticket (Thursday, Sept.12) includes the ticketholder’s choice of a wine, beer or non-alcoholic beverage in price of the discounted $20 ticket (available online-only at boatsafloatshow.com), redeemable at the Breakwater Bar. Women's Day (Friday, September 13) celebrates women’s growing involvement in boating. All are welcome, but women can purchase discounted tickets - $10 online or $11 at the door; valid for admission on Friday, Sept. 13.
Show hours and tickets
Show hours are Thursday and Friday (Sept. 12-13), 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday (September 14), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday (Sept. 15), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $22 for adults 18 and over, $5 for teens ages 13-17, and is free for children 12 and under. Tickets can also be purchased through the show’s website including discounted adult tickets ($20) and a multi-day “All Access Pass” for $35, available exclusively online at boatsafloatshow.com.
For more information visit www.boatsafloatshow.com. The 2024 Fall Boats Afloat Show is located at Lake Union Piers on the shores of South Lake Union at 901 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109.