Catawba Island Boat Show Returns for 3-Day Event

The 20th annual boating showcase features over 100 exhibitors, boat demos, and more.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:10pm

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the towering architecture and sleek boats of the Catawba Island Boat Show, rendered in bold, airbrushed gradients that capture the event's grand scale and celebratory spirit.The Catawba Island Boat Show returns with a grand, art deco-inspired celebration of Ohio's boating season kickoff.Port Clinton Today

The 20th annual Progressive Catawba Island Boat Show is set to take place from April 24-26 at the Catawba Island Club & Marina in Port Clinton, Ohio. The three-day event will feature new and pre-owned boats on display, boat demo rides, around 100 exhibitors, live music, a kids zone, and exhibits showcasing the boating lifestyle.

Why it matters

The Catawba Island Boat Show has become a highly anticipated annual event that marks the start of the boating season in Ohio. As one of the largest boat shows in the region, it provides a platform for boat enthusiasts, dealers, and the marine industry to connect and showcase the latest products and trends.

The details

The boat show will feature a wide variety of new and late-model pre-owned boats on display in the water, with demo rides available for attendees. In addition to the boats, the event will have around 100 exhibitors showcasing various marine products and services. New for 2026, the show will also include exhibits featuring vehicles designed for the boating lifestyle, as well as live music and a dedicated kids zone.

  • The Catawba Island Boat Show is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.
  • The show will run from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 26.

The players

Catawba Island Club & Marina

The venue hosting the 20th annual Catawba Island Boat Show in Port Clinton, Ohio.

Ohio Marine Trades Association

The organization that oversees the Catawba Island Boat Show and considers it the official kickoff to the boating season in Ohio.

Michelle Burke

The president of the Ohio Marine Trades Association, who stated that the Catawba Island Boat Show has become the state's official boating season kickoff event.

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What they’re saying

“the show has become Ohio's official boating season kickoff.”

— Michelle Burke, President, Ohio Marine Trades Association

What’s next

Attendees can purchase tickets in advance through Etix.com, where a promo code for $2 off admission is available.

The takeaway

The Catawba Island Boat Show has grown to become a must-attend event for boat enthusiasts and the marine industry in Ohio, marking the start of the boating season with a wide range of new boats, products, and family-friendly activities.