Boat Builders Show on Cape Cod

January 30 - February 1, 2026

The Cape Cod Maritime Museum had a strong and enthusiastic showing at the annual Boat Builders Show on Cape Cod, held the last weekend in January at the Hyport Convention Center. It is one of the few shows in the country dedicated to providing an opportunity for passionate boat builders to showcase their work – and did we ever!  Our award winning restoration of a 1944 Coast Guard Surfboat and a committed group of volunteer boat builders took center stage, along with a group of our young boat builders showcasing the great detail in their recently completed build of a 12 foot Bevin’s. Not to be outdone were members of our Rowing Program, who not only informed visitors with rowing opportunities, but presented a half-hull model of an in-process build of a new rowing gig.

This annual event gave the museum a terrific opportunity to showcase the many programs that connect us with our community. Our talented volunteer boatbuilders and rowers sparked real excitement among attendees - many eager to join a build, sign up for rowing, or enroll in Young Mariner Camp. Special thanks to Bill Stirling, Jon Aborn,  Eric Buchovecky, Andy Campbell, Peter Cross, Tony Davis, Frank Furze, Mike Galasso, Jeff Ham, Liam Henry, Bryan Horsley, John G Kassakian, Frank Kahr, Ken Kolbe, Bob Lister, Carl Lubelezyk, Dick Peterson, Phil Scholomiti, Alan Shoemaker, Jeff Silcox, Steve Sally, Don Stucke, Paul Swanson, Andy Voikos, Richard Vogel, Whitney Wright, John Eldert, and all who helped inspire the next wave of maritime enthusiasts.

“The Show continues to pursue its mission to promote and support independent boat builders, predominantly from southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod”, stated Scott Dayton, the show’s Founder. “It is both the annual reunion of a close-knit community of boat builders, passionate about their craft and their equally passionate clients and prospective clients.  The Show remains more relevant than ever, showcasing builders who believe in building proven designs of unparalleled quality while providing the highest level of traditional customer service. Special thanks to Don Chapin of Chapin Custom Boats, Tony Davis of Arey’s Pond Boat Yard, Mark Young of Young’s Electronic Systems, Randall Lyons, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association and Sue Lonergan, Executive Director of the Cape Cod Maritime Museum for their much appreciated and continued support. Thanks also to The Hyport Conference Center owners and staff.”