Plans for the annual Progressive North Coast Harbor Boat Show are still underway for its 3-day run, September 18-20.

The free event has become a traditional wind up to the summer activities on Cleveland’s lakefront. This year the show is expected to feature nearly 100 power and sailboats, all displayed in the “Rock & Dock Marina” located in the shadow of Cleveland’s iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

“The show is entirely outside, on the water, but we will still have controlled dock access to enhance social distancing requirements as well as continuous cleaning protocols for the boats on display,” explains Michelle Burke, president of the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association. “Boats slated for display will include fishing models, family runabouts, cruisers, motor yachts and sailboats.”

Dealers from across northern Ohio will be participating. For them, it’s not just a “show and tell” event but an end-of-summer “show and sell” happening. All the boats will be open for boarding and most will boast end-year sales incentives, especially all left-over 2020 models. Even new 2021 models, some being shown to the public for the first time, will have introductory discount pricing and other incentives that could range from free winter storage, low rate financing, or guaranteed spring delivery for early orders.

Another unique aspect of this show is that all the boats are available for demonstration rides, including scheduled opportunities for actual introductory sailing experiences for wannabe sailors.

“The show is in the heart of our city,” says Burke, “making the setting unique is several ways. We’ll open the docks on Friday before lunchtime so workers from nearby office buildings can stroll down to the waterfront and board the boats.

“Over the weekend,” Burke continued, “the setting is one of high energy and fun all around. And, it’s not just because the great Rock Hall is there. The fleet will be surrounded by the Great Lakes Science Center, the floating Steamship William G. Mather Museum, the popular Nuevo Restaurant with the city towering up over all of it for a truly unique backdrop.”

This boat show, now in its fourth year, has both grown in popularity and drawn increasing attention to all of Cleveland’s lakefront offerings. Admission to the show is free.

Hours this year will be: Friday (Sept. 18) 11am to 8pm; Saturday (Sept. 19) 11am to 8pm.; Sunday (Sept. 20) 12 Noon to 5pm.