As July rolls around, boating enthusiasts everywhere eagerly anticipate some of the year’s most exciting on-water events. From regattas and boat shows to music festivals on the water, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a recreational boater, or just someone who loves being by the water. In this article, we’ve gathered some of the top boating events happening in July, complete with details on price, event specifics, and what you can expect to experience.
1. The Great Lakes Boating Festival
Where: Grosse Pointe, Michigan
When: Early July
Price: Free to the public
Specs:
- Focus: Recreational boating, classic and vintage boats
- Types of Boats: Sailboats, powerboats, wooden boats
- Notable Features: Antique boat show, maritime art exhibits, vendors
For boaters on the Great Lakes or those willing to make the trip, the Great Lakes Boating Festival offers a weekend full of fun, family-friendly activities. Visitors can browse through hundreds of classic boats on display, from beautifully restored wooden vessels to state-of-the-art yachts. Attendees can also enjoy live music, maritime art exhibitions, and boat equipment vendors. It’s a relaxed yet vibrant event perfect for anyone interested in the boating lifestyle.
2. Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance
Where: Lake Tahoe, California
When: Mid-July
Price: General Admission starts at $30, VIP packages at $125
Specs:
- Focus: Classic wooden boats
- Types of Boats: Primarily wooden runabouts
- Notable Features: Judging of vintage wooden boats, cocktail cruises, award ceremonies
This prestigious wooden boat show takes place on the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe. The Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance is known for showcasing some of the finest examples of wooden boat craftsmanship, with vessels that date back to the early 20th century. The event includes boat judging, cocktail cruises, and award ceremonies, making it a classy, luxurious experience. VIP attendees can also enjoy exclusive boat tours and dockside drinks.
3. Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise, San Juan Islands
Where: San Juan Islands, Washington
When: Throughout July
Price: $99 – $149 per person (depending on the length of the cruise)
Specs:
- Focus: Wildlife watching and eco-tours
- Types of Boats: Charter boats, catamarans
- Notable Features: Guided wildlife tours, onboard naturalists, whale sightings
If you’re looking for a more intimate, nature-focused boating event, head to the San Juan Islands in Washington. During July, the waters teem with orcas, humpback whales, and dolphins, providing an unforgettable wildlife experience. Many companies offer daily whale watching cruises with expert guides onboard, offering insights into the local ecosystem. Expect breathtaking views of marine life and stunning natural landscapes.
4. Key West Marlin Tournament
Where: Key West, Florida
When: Mid-July
Price: Entry fees start at $1,800 per boat (up to six anglers)
Specs:
- Focus: Sportfishing, marlin
- Types of Boats: Sportfishing boats, center consoles, flybridge yachts
- Notable Features: Cash prizes, deep-sea fishing, awards ceremony
For sportfishing enthusiasts, the Key West Marlin Tournament is a bucket-list event. It’s a high-energy competition where experienced anglers compete to reel in the biggest marlin and win massive cash prizes. The tournament spans four days and includes nightly parties, banquets, and awards ceremonies. If you’re serious about sportfishing or just want to be part of the action, the Key West Marlin Tournament is the place to be in July.
5. Maine Windjammer Parade
Where: Camden Harbor, Maine
When: Early July
Price: Free to view from shore, boat tickets start at $150 for onboard tours
Specs:
- Focus: Traditional sailing ships
- Types of Boats: Windjammers, schooners
- Notable Features: Parade of historic windjammers, dockside tours, fireworks
The Maine Windjammer Parade is a stunning spectacle where more than a dozen historic sailing vessels sail through Camden Harbor in all their glory. Onshore viewing is free, but for a more immersive experience, you can purchase tickets to tour these majestic ships or join the onboard celebrations. The event concludes with a fireworks display, adding an extra touch of magic to the evening.
6. Aquapalooza
Where: Multiple Locations (Popular in Texas, Florida, and Missouri)
When: Late July
Price: Free for boaters, no admission fee
Specs:
- Focus: On-water music festival
- Types of Boats: All types – pontoons, yachts, speedboats
- Notable Features: Live music, floating bars, massive raft-ups
Aquapalooza is the ultimate on-water party, with events happening across the U.S. in places like Lake Travis, Texas, Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, and various locations in Florida. Boaters gather in droves to form massive raft-ups while enjoying live music, food, and drinks in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Since it’s free for boaters to participate, just bring your boat, anchor down, and join in the party. Expect dancing, swimming, and good vibes all around.
7. Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix
Where: Sarasota, Florida
When: July 4th Weekend
Price: Free for onshore viewing, VIP tickets start at $100
Specs:
- Focus: Powerboat racing
- Types of Boats: High-speed offshore racing boats
- Notable Features: Powerboat races, beach parties, fireworks
The Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most thrilling boating events of the year, combining high-speed action with festive beachside celebrations. Watch some of the fastest offshore racing boats zip through the water as they compete for top honors. Beyond the races, visitors can enjoy beach parties, VIP viewing areas, and an impressive fireworks show over Sarasota Bay to mark the Fourth of July weekend.
8. Venetian Festival Boat Parade
Where: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
When: Late July
Price: Free to the public
Specs:
- Focus: Boat parades, decorated boats
- Types of Boats: All types, often decked out with themed decorations
- Notable Features: Nighttime boat parade, fireworks, food vendors
Lake Geneva’s Venetian Festival is famous for its annual boat parade where boaters decorate their vessels in stunning lights and creative themes. The nighttime parade is followed by a fireworks display, making for a picturesque evening by the lake. The festival itself includes food vendors, carnival rides, and live music, making it a great all-ages event.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into sportfishing, wildlife watching, or just want to party on the water, July is packed with incredible boating events for every type of water lover. From the thrill of powerboat races to the elegance of wooden boat shows and festive parades, these events provide the perfect way to spend your summer days on the water. So, gather your crew, pack your sunscreen, and set sail to one (or more) of these unforgettable boating experiences this July!
Do any of these events pique your interest for further exploration or planning?
Happy Boating!
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