The Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive Insurance, returns to the Norwalk Cove Marina September 18-21, 2025, with more boats to see & shop, free boating lessons and rides, paddle sports demos, and fun for the whole family. Located on the beautiful Long Island Sound, it’s the perfect way to spend the day on and around the water – no wonder it’s one of the Northeast’s favorite outdoor Fall events!
Event Highlights
More boats, more brands, more gear, more fun – see and shop the most comprehensive selection of boat brands and types in the tri-state area this fall, from center consoles and yachts to day boats and family cruisers. Looking for a new boat? The Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show is the perfect opportunity to browse, compare and get great deals on your perfect boat, plus gear upon the newest boating accessories, marine electronics and other boating “must-haves” from the best brands in the business.
Looking for a friend with a boat? You don’t need to be shopping for a boat to get in on the fun. Hop aboard hundreds of boats, take a free boat ride, or just soak up life on the water with a cool beverage, live music, and a terrific community of water lovers. And there will be lots of fun for the kids too, including Touch Tanks with live tidepool creatures, paddle boating in a mini pool, toy boat-building workshops, and more.
Demos in the Cove
Free paddle sports and power boat demos in Try It Cove – Paddle and kayak your way around the boat show to get a different view of hundreds of boats and get closer to the water! Kayak and stand-up paddleboard demos available for ages 10 and up. And there will be free power boat rides also at Try It Cove – Relax and enjoy a free power boat ride on the Long Island Sound, compliments of Freedom Boat Club. Daily Schedule: Thursday–Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Don’t forget to check out Engine Alley, where you can see and experience the latest in engine tech to power your on-water adventures.
Additionally, attendees can enjoy a free Lighthouse Boat Tour – Enjoy a complimentary boat ride out to historic Green’s Ledge Lighthouse on Sheffield Island. During the trip, you’ll hear about local history and folklore, including the origins of the local oyster industry and the maritime heritage of Long Island Sound. Presented by the Norwalk Seaport Association with daily, one-hour trips at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., Sunday trips end at 3 p.m. (weather permitting).
Seminars
New! Fishing Seminars with Kylee Short @BaitBarbieFishing – A self-taught bass enthusiast, Kylee is on a mission to get more women and families hooked on fishing. Known for her approachable techniques, she’ll be sharing tips and real-world experience with her signature “Bait Barbie” flair. Schedule: Saturday 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. On Sunday you can attend her seminars at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Free Boater Education
Progressive Boat School’s On-Water Boating Classes, by Annapolis School of Seamanship – Takethe helm under the instruction of USCG Licensed Captains to gain more confidence on the water and get hands-on education for all levels. Skills covered include boat handling, docking, knots, basic navigation, and weather awareness. Basic Boat Operator and Women at the Wheel.
Fred’s Shed How-to Center, presented by Progressive – Tips, tricks, and DIY advice for every boater—from first timers to experienced captains. Have a boat or engine problem you haven’t been able to fix? Stop by and ask our tech expert about it.
Towing with Toyota – The Greater New York Toyota Dealer Association (GNY TDA) is proud to be the Official Tow Vehicle of the Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show.
Or Just Chill
Relax waterside overlooking hundreds of boats at the Water Club Lounge or kick back at The SandBar with live music and beautiful views of the Norwalk Harbor. Tour the Queen of the Show & her Court – Boat Show tradition dictates that the largest boat at the show is named the Queen, and her innovations deserve a look.
Where & When
The show runs Thursday through Sunday, September 18 to 21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. At Norwalk Cove Marina 48 Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk, CT. Tickets are on sale now at BoatShowNorwalk.com! $20 for adults; children 12 & under get in free when accompanied by a paid adult. Buy online or via contactless payment onsite – no cash accepted. First Responders, Military, and Veterans get in free on Thursday, September 18. Simply show valid identification along with photo ID upon entry.
Enjoy free parking at Calf Pasture Beach provided by your local Toyota dealers, or arrive by boat and hail our free water taxi to the Show! In Norwalk Harbor (to the right of Peach Island) hail the Water Taxi on Ch. 68 to direct the water taxi captain to your anchor point.
Each year this event is hailed as the last gasp for summer boaters in Connecticut and you don’t want to miss it!
