Introduction
Every January, something special happens in South Carolina—and for boating lovers, it feels like the official start of the season. The Charleston Boat Show 2026 is more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of life on the water, coastal culture, and the freedom that comes with it. In factm this iconic event brings together families, boating enthusiasts, first-time buyers, and industry professionals under one roof. Whether you’re here to explore, learn, shop, or simply soak in the boating lifestyle, this guide will help you plan your visit with confidence. Let’s start from the very beginning—and then dive deeper, one wave at a time.
What Is The Charleston Boat Show 2026 All About?
At its core, The Charleston Boat Show 2026 is South Carolina’s premier marine event and a proud Lowcountry tradition. Now in its 46th year, the show has grown into the official kick-off to the region’s boating season. Hosted at the spacious Charleston Area Convention Center, the event showcases everything from small jon boats and fishing skiffs to luxury yachts, pontoons, and personal watercraft. Alongside boats, visitors can explore marine electronics, accessories, safety equipment, water sports gear, and lifestyle products—all presented by top brands and trusted local dealers. But what truly sets this show apart is its welcoming vibe. It’s not just for serious buyers. Families, first-time boaters, anglers, and outdoor lovers all find something valuable here.
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Dates & Schedule
Before planning your trip, let’s lock in the essentials.
📅 The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Dates
- Friday, January 23, 2026
- Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Sunday, January 25, 2026
📍 Venue
- Charleston Area Convention Center
- North Charleston, United States
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 schedule runs across three full days, giving visitors plenty of time to explore boats, attend seminars, meet exhibitors, and enjoy hands-on experiences without feeling rushed.
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Event Details You Should Know
Now that you know when and where, let’s talk about what makes this event worth your time.
🛥️ What You’ll See on the Show Floor
- Fishing boats, cruisers, pontoons & yachts
- Center consoles, ski boats & personal watercraft
- Marine electronics & navigation systems
- Boat trailers, hoists & docking solutions
- Safety, coast guard & emergency equipment
- Water sports gear, fishing tools & diving accessories
This mix makes The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Event Details appealing to both beginners and seasoned boat owners.
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Highlights That Draw the Crowds
What keeps people coming back year after year? Let’s connect the dots.
- Unbeatable show-only deals you won’t find elsewhere
- Hands-on fishing clinics & boating seminars
- Direct access to marine experts and manufacturers
- A wide range of boats for every taste and budget
- Family-friendly environment with lifestyle experiences
It’s not just about looking—it’s about learning, comparing, and feeling confident before you buy.
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Things To Do Beyond Boats
Once you’re done admiring the boats, what’s next? Quite a lot, actually.
- Attend educational boating and safety seminars
- Explore fishing demonstrations and gear showcases
- Meet marina developers and charter service providers
- Enjoy local food options inside the venue
- Shop exclusive Boat Show T-shirts, available only on-site.
These experiences turn the event into a full-day (or even full-weekend) outing rather than a quick walkthrough.
The Charleston Boat Show 2026 Tickets Price & Entry Fees
Planning your visit also means planning your budget—and the good news is that ticket pricing is straightforward and family-friendly.
Buy early and save—online tickets are cheaper than onsite pricing.
| Ticket Type | Online Price | Onsite Price |
| Two-Day Pass | $20.00 | — |
| Adults (13+) | $13.00 | $15.00 |
| Seniors (65+) | $12.00 | $14.00 |
| Military | $12.00 | $14.00 |
| Children (4–12) | $7.00 | $7.00 |
👉 Tickets must be presented at the gate and can be stored on your mobile device.
The Charleston Boat Show : Smart Booking Tips
If you’re wondering how to get the most value, here’s a simple tip: book early. Early buyers save money and avoid onsite queues. If you plan to explore across multiple days, the Two-Day Pass is especially worth it.
How to Reach The Charleston Boat Show 2026
Getting there is easy—and that’s part of why this venue works so well.
- Located minutes from Charleston International Airport
- Easy road access from major highways
- Short shuttle ride to Charleston’s Historic District
- Ample parking and clear event signage
The Charleston Area Convention Center Campus is designed for large-scale events, so navigation is smooth even during peak hours.
Why The Charleston Boat Show Matters to the Lowcountry
Beyond boats and deals, this event represents something bigger. For over four decades, The Show has been a gathering point for people who love the water—locals and visitors alike. It celebrates coastal living, outdoor freedom, and the boating lifestyle that defines the Lowcountry. That emotional connection is what keeps this show relevant year after year.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you love boats, water sports, fishing, or simply coastal culture, The Charleston Boat Show 2026 delivers value, inspiration, and real-world knowledge—all in one place. Whether you’re buying, browsing, or dreaming, this event meets you where you are. From competitive ticket pricing to hands-on learning and unbeatable deals, it’s more than a show—it’s an experience worth planning for. Stay tuned to ScoopNonstop for more verified updates, schedules, and on-the-ground insights as the festival approaches.
FAQs
- What are the Charleston Boat Show dates?
The show runs from January 23 to January 25, 2026, giving visitors three full days to explore boats, marine gear, seminars, and show-only offers at a relaxed pace. - Where is The Charleston Boat Show held?
It takes place at the Charleston Area Convention Center in North Charleston, United States, a modern venue conveniently located near the airport and downtown Charleston. - Are tickets available online?
Yes, tickets can be purchased online, and buying early helps you save on The Charleston Boat Show 2026 tickets while avoiding onsite queues. - Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely. The show welcomes families with kid-friendly experiences, interactive displays, and plenty of activities that make boating fun for all age groups. - What makes this boat show special?
Its 46-year legacy, exclusive show-only deals, expert-led sessions, and deep connection to Lowcountry boating culture make it a must-attend annual event.
