Organizers announced a major expansion for the 2026 event that will take displays out of the convention hall and onto the Savannah River. This historic shift promises to transform the Lowcountry’s premier maritime event into a true waterfront experience.
A Major Shift for Marine Enthusiasts
The 2026 Savannah Boat Show is scheduled for March 13 through March 15.
It will mark a significant milestone for the event which has run for 23 years exclusively on land. The show will now operate as a dual venue event held at both the Savannah Convention Center and the newly developed IGY Savannah Harbor Marina.
This hybrid model allows attendees to view trailerable boats and marine gear inside the climate controlled exhibit hall while experiencing larger vessels in their natural element on the water.
Jacqui McGuinness is the founder of JBM & Associates and the driving force behind the show. She stated that moving boats onto the river has been a long standing goal for the organization.
The expansion is expected to attract a wider variety of exhibitors. Manufacturers of larger yachts and cruisers often prefer in water displays because it allows potential buyers to feel the movement of the boat and see how it handles the dock environment.
This move signals that Savannah is ready to compete with larger boat shows in Florida and the Carolinas.
Exploring the New Waterfront Venue
The partnership with IGY Savannah Harbor Marina is the catalyst for this expansion.
Located directly in front of the Convention Center on Hutchinson Island, the marina offers deep water access capable of hosting significant vessels. This is not just a standard dock but a world class facility designed to handle everything from center consoles to superyachts.
General Manager Jedison Knowles believes this partnership will highlight Savannah as a top tier nautical destination.
Visitors can expect a seamless flow between the two locations. You can browse fishing tackle and engines indoors and then walk a few steps to tour luxury pontoons and cruisers floating in the marina basin.
Here is what the new outdoor expansion adds to the visitor experience:
- In-Water Demos: The ability to see larger hulls sitting in the water rather than on blocks.
- Superyacht Docks: Access to view vessels that are too large to fit through convention center doors.
- Scenic Backdrop: A view of historic River Street and the passing container ships while shopping for boats.
- Expanded Inventory: More space means a higher volume of boat brands and models on display.
Logistics, Tickets, and Ferry Access
Navigating the 2026 show will be an adventure in itself.
Organizers have ensured that moving between the Convention Center and the riverfront displays is easy for families. Parking will be available at the Convention Center as usual.
However, many locals might opt for the scenic route. Attendees can park downtown and take the free Savannah Belles Ferry directly to the show. This turns the commute into a boat ride before you even buy your ticket.
The show hours are designed to maximize the weekend daylight.
- Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ticket pricing remains accessible for families despite the massive expansion. Organizers have kept entry fees reasonable to encourage local attendance.
2026 Ticket Pricing Structure
| Ticket Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult General Admission | $12 | Single day access to both venues |
| Child (Ages 4-12) | $6 | Kids under 4 usually enter free |
| Two-Day Pass | $15 | Best value for weekend visitors |
| Senior/Military | Varies | Check website for potential discounts |
Note: Discounted tickets are often available for early purchase at savannahboatshow.com.
Boosting Local Tourism and Economy
The ripple effect of this expansion goes beyond just selling boats.
By activating the riverfront, the boat show becomes a larger draw for tourists from neighboring states. The IGY marina includes 100 berths and brings high net worth individuals into the heart of the city.
When boat shows expand to in water formats, they typically see an increase in out of town visitors who stay in local hotels and dine in local restaurants.
The marina has recently added new waterfront amenities that will likely be showcased during the event. This creates a festival atmosphere that appeals to casual attendees as much as serious buyers.
Entertainment will also be a key component of the 2026 event.
“It strengthens Savannah’s growing marine tourism presence.”
This sentiment from the marina management highlights the strategic importance of the river.
The event will feature live music performances and a variety of food trucks. This turns a shopping trip into a full day outing for families. It connects the industrial maritime history of the Savannah River with its recreational future.
The integration of the river is a natural evolution for a city built on water.
This event sets the stage for future growth. If 2026 proves successful, we could see even more of the riverfront utilized in subsequent years.
The Savannah Boat Show has always been a staple of the spring season. Now it promises to be the anchor event for the waterfront.
March 2026 will be the start of a new chapter for boating in Georgia. It brings the community together to celebrate the water right where it belongs.
