Blog

Where It All Began

The story starts in 1975 in Morehead City, where the event first launched as the Heritage Boat Show.

It was modest in scale:

- Just a handful of wooden boats

- Local builders and watermen

- A shared mission to preserve a fading craft

At the time, traditional wooden boatbuilding was disappearing along the North Carolina coast. This gathering was more than an event—it was a turning point in protecting a way of life.

A New Home in Beaufort

By 1977, the show moved to Beaufort, aligning with the growth of the North Carolina Maritime Museum.

Set along historic Front Street, the event found its perfect setting:

- A walkable waterfront

- A deep connection to maritime history

- A natural stage for storytelling

Here, the Wooden Boat Show transformed into a true visitor experience, blending education, craftsmanship, and coastal charm.

Honoring Craftsmanship & Tradition

Over the years, the show expanded to include:

- Live boatbuilding demonstrations

- Conversations with craftsmen

- Interactive exhibits for all ages

The addition of the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center helped ensure these traditions continue, giving visitors a chance to see wooden boats built the same way they have been for generations.

Resilience on the Coast

In 1985, the event faced a major setback when Hurricane Gloria forced its cancellation.

But like Beaufort itself, the Wooden Boat Show endured—returning stronger and continuing to grow into the celebrated tradition it is today.

The 50th Annual Celebration

Now in its 50th year, the Wooden Boat Show stands as:

- One of the longest-running wooden boat shows in the Southeast

- A cornerstone event for the Crystal Coast

- A celebration of craftsmanship, history, and community

Experience the 50th from the Waterfront

There’s no better way to experience this milestone than by staying along the coast.

At the Beaufort Hotel, guests are just minutes from Front Street—close enough to take in the excitement, yet perfectly positioned to relax and unwind by the water.

Hotel guests can enjoy convenient shuttle service to the Wooden Boat Show—making it easy to experience the event while staying just moments from the waterfront.

The 50th Annual Celebration

Now in its 50th year, the Wooden Boat Show stands as one of the longest-running wooden boat shows in the Southeast.

Event Highlights & Activities

This event is a highlight for boating enthusiasts and families, offering a variety of activities and displays. The event is free and open to the public.

This family-oriented event celebrates the boat building traditions of eastern North Carolina.

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

EXHIBIT OF WOODEN BOATS — Front Street (Vote for your favorite boat)

WOODEN BOAT KIDS — Museum Front Patio

KNOT TYING BY DON VAN HOY — Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center

IN-WATER BOAT SHOW — Beaufort Waterfront Docks

NAUTICAL BOOK SALE — N.C. Maritime Museum Front Patio

VINTAGE TOY OUTBOARD MOTORS — Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center

BOB ZENTZ — Sea shanties and maritime-themed music — Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center

Top 5 Things Not to Miss

1. Vote for Your Favorite Wooden Boat along Front Street

2. Watch Live Boatbuilding Demonstrations at the Watercraft Center

3. Explore the In-Water Boat Show along the docks

4. Enjoy Live Sea Shanties with Bob Zentz

5. Bring the Kids for Hands-On Activities at Wooden Boat Kids

A Legacy 50 Years in the Making

From its beginnings in Morehead City to its home in Beaufort, the Wooden Boat Show has become more than an event—it’s a reflection of the region’s identity.

Fifty years later, it continues to honor the craftsmanship, culture, and coastal spirit that define the Crystal Coast.

Plan Your Visit

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 Make it a weekend on the waterfront.

Call 252-728-3000 or book your stay at BeaufortHotelNC.com