The Ohio Marine Trades Association (OMTA) has announced dates for the 19th annual Progressive Catawba Island Boat Show-the largest in­ water spring boat show on the Great Lakes. The highly anticipated event will take place April 25-27, 2025, at the prestigious Catawba Island Club in Port Clinton, Ohio.

The three-day show offers a rare opportunity to view many of the season's largest powerboats and sailboats, which are typically too large to be transported to indoor winter shows. For many attendees, this will be the first look at new models launched for the 2025 boating season.

More than 100 boats will be on display, ranging from personal watercraft to luxury motor yachts. Surrounding the scenic CIC yacht basin, nearly 100 exhibits will showcase marine equipment, boating services, marina destinations, apparel, and more.

"Of all the shows we produce annually," said Michelle Burke, president of OMTA, "dealers and attendees alike say this one has a genuine festival atmosphere. Boaters have come to embrace it as the official kick-off celebration of Ohio's boating season."

Daily live music will set the tone from the Shores & Islands Ohio Main Stage, bringing island­ inspired performances to the waterfront setting. Guests can relax in the new Yacht Lounge, presented by the Bauman Auto Group, offering shaded, comfortable seating and waterfront views.

A curated lineup of local food trucks will also be on hand, featuring popular favorites such as Put-in-Bay's Boardwalk Lobster Bisque truck, Berardi's Fry Trailer, and The Gaucho and the Gringo.

While the atmosphere is lively, the boats and accessories remain the main attraction. The in­ water format also allows qualified buyers to experience demo rides and sea trials on the spot­ something no indoor show can match.

The show will once again feature the popular "Discover Sailing" program, offering aspiring sailors a true hands-on experience aboard a teaching vessel. Participants will sail Lake Erie with instructors from Learn to Sail Cleveland, taking the helm, hoisting the sails, and learning the basics of sailing in a real-time setting.

Located on the Catawba Peninsula off Northwest Catawba Road in Port Clinton, the Catawba Island Club offers an ideal backdrop for the event. Free parking and shuttle service are provided from designated lots. The show attracts more than 10,000 attendees each year.

Show hours are:

• Friday,April 25 - 12 PM to 6 PM

• Saturday,April26- 10 AM to 6 PM

• Sunday,April27- 11 AM  to 5 PM

Advance discount tickets are available at catawbaislandboatshow.com.

About the Ohio Marine Trades Association

The Ohio Marine Trades Association organizes the Progressive Cleveland Boat Show and is dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of the marine industry in Ohio. By hosting events like this, the association supports local businesses and fosters a love of boating across the state.