The Great Lakes Boating Festival will drop anchor May 17-18 at the newly renovated marina at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club in Grosse Pointe Shores.
Michigan ranked third in recreational powerboat sales with $1.6 billion in receipts during 2023, according to a study citing the latest data available at the state level by the National Marine Manufacturers Association in Washington, D.C.
The boat show will feature boats up to 60 feet in length that are available for purchase, as well as multiple product and service booths. Entertainment will include music, a fresh grilled food court, lawn games, and more.
Features at the show include an all-electric personal watercraft, the Tiaga Orca, that hails from Elk Rapids Marina, while Action Water Sports will display an all-new helm in their Mastercraft X24, along with Michigan-made Balise Pontoons.
Other boats on display will include bow riders, center consoles, cruising vessels, and tenders of various sizes.
In addition, America’s Boating Club Grosse Pointe will have a sign up for free vessel safety checks at the event, and information on boating safety classes.
While the event is free, parking is $20 at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, or attendees can park for free and take a complimentary shuttle to the show from North High School at 707 Vernier Road in Grosse Pointe Woods.
Beyond the education scholarships, the foundation awards five perpetual scholarships supported by endowments from donors. The organization also supports high school sailing programs, and provides grants to young sailors who travel to compete in national level events.
The festival hours are May 17, noon to 7 p.m.; and May 18, noon to 5 p.m.
Note: On May 16, the Festival’s Summer Breeze Kick-off Party at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club will benefit the Grosse Pointe Youth Nautical Education Foundation. The foundation awards scholarships to high school graduates who participate in sailing. Tickets to the event can be purchased on the festival website.
The Great Lake Boating Festival is produced by the Michigan Boating Industries Association, and revenue generated from the event is returned to fund boater’s interests via MBIA’s programs and services.
For more information, visit greatlakesboatingfestival.com/.
