PORT CLINTON, OH – April 3, 2025 — The Ohio Marine Trades Association (OMTA) has announced
dates for the 20 th 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, April 26 – 10 AM to 6 PM
• Sunday, April 27 – 10 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.
Media Contact:
Todd Sheppard
Whistle Communications
todd@whistlepr.com
440.308.8868
