VIEW THE SEMINAR SCHEDULE
PRIDE PARK:
The Education Zone at Pride Park is a must-visit for attendees of all ages looking to hear from the professionals and enhance their skills! Attend complimentary seminars and bring the family over on the weekend to catch our Kids Fishing Clinics with Captain Don Dingman!
February 12th 2026
Ask A Captain
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Pride Park-11:00am
Do you ever wish you had a professional captain onboard with you, so you could ask him or her questions about the situations that challenge you on the water? Join captains from the Annapolis School of Seamanship for a question and answer session. Come to the show and bring your questions!
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Diesel Basics
Pride Park-12:30pm
Whether you’re thinking about buying a boat with a diesel engine or already own one and want to feel more confident? This seminar from the Annapolis School of Seamanship is a must for cruisers, weekenders, and aspiring boat owners alike. In 90 minutes, Captain John will break down the fundamentals of marine diesel engines in plain, practical terms. You’ll learn how they work, what the key components do, how systems connect—and what to do when something goes wrong. Whether you're hoping to avoid costly mistakes or just want to better understand what’s happening under the hatch, this seminar gives you the confidence to cruise smarter, safer, and more self-reliant.
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
How to Get Your Captain's License
Pride Park-2:00pm
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Anchoring and Mooring
Pride Park-3:30pm
Anchoring is an art as well as a skill. From choosing the best place to anchor to handling the ground tackle, this seminar will demystify the art of dropping the hook.
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
February 13th 2026
Docking De-Stressed
Pride Park-11:00am
Is docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Topics Include:
Situational Awareness
Forces
Line Handling
Communication
Close Quarters Maneuvering
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Modern Electronic Navigation
Pride Park- 12:30pm
Discover how PWC fishing transforms ordinary rides into unforgettable on-the-water adventures, combining access to remote fishing spots with the thrill of speed and versatility. This seminar explores how modern fishing PWCs deliver stability, comfort, and purpose-built features like navigation, rod holders, and cooler storage, while easily converting from a serious fishing platform to a family-friendly craft. Learn why their lower cost, easy transport, and nimble, ocean-capable design make them an exciting and practical alternative to traditional sport boats.Integrated Navigation, is a concept of blending all the resources available to the modern boater from traditional compass and paper charts, to onboard electronics to tablets such as the Apple iPad® to maintain what professional mariners call “situational awareness.” Join the instructors from Annapolis School of Seamanship to learn how to use these powerful tools to stay safe and have fun on the water.
Electronic navigation
Integrating traditional methods
Tablets & apps
AccessoriesNetworking
Presented By: Capt. Matt Benhoff, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Fishing with Bri Andrassy Brought to you by Sea-Doo
Pride Park-2:00pm
Do you ever wish you had a professional captain onboard with you, so you could ask him or her questions about the situations that challenge you on the water? Join captains from the Annapolis School of Seamanship for a question and answer session. Come to the show and bring your questions!
Presented By: Bri Andrassy, Sea-Doo
Great Loop Speed Record
Pride Park-3:30pm
Meet Robert Youens, “The Ageless Wanderer,” who completed the entire Great Loop in a jon boat in a record-breaking 19 days at age 71, traveling nearly 5,000 miles and navigating 64 locks. In this seminar, Robert shares the challenges, lessons, and determination behind this remarkable small-boat expedition and the true spirit of exploration.
Presented By: Robert Youens
February 14th 2026
Hook the Future: Kids' Fishing Clinic
Pride Park-12:00pm
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.
Speaker: Captain Don Dingman
Hook the Future: Kids' Fishing Clinic
Pride Park-2:00pm
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.Is docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Speaker: Captain Don Dingman
How to Get Your Captain's License
Pride Park-3:30pm
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
February 15th 2026
Hook the Future: Kids' Fishing Clinic
Pride Park-12:00pm
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.
Speaker: Captain Don Dingman
Hook the Future: Kids' Fishing Clinic
Pride Park-2:00pm
Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.
Speaker: Captain Don Dingman
PRIDE PARK:
The Education Zone at Pride Park is a must-visit for attendees of all ages looking to hear from the professionals and enhance their skills! Attend complimentary seminars and bring the family over on the weekend to catch our Kids Fishing Clinics with Captain Don Dingman!
February 11th 2026
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-10:00am
Winterization, Summarization and the Proper Way to Store Fuel in Your Boat During Off Season
Miami Beach Convention Center-11:00am
Let's Talk Marine Electronics
Miami Beach Convention Center-12:00pm
Boater Basics: Essential Skills Every Boater Needs to Know
Miami Beach Convention Center-1:00pm
Basic Motor Maintenance for Marine Engines
Miami Beach Convention Center-2:00pm
Which Boat Is Right for You?
Miami Beach Convention Center-3:00pm
What Is the Correct Fuel for My Motor and How Do I Care for It?
Miami Beach Convention Center-4:00pm
How Do I Know If I Have the Correct Prop?
Miami Beach Convention Center-5:00pm
February 12th 2026
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-10:00am
Which Boat Is Right for You?
Miami Beach Convention Center-11:00am
What Is the Correct Fuel for My Motor and How Do I Care for It?
Miami Beach Convention Center-12:00pm
Boater Basics: Essential Skills Every Boater Needs to Know
Miami Beach Convention Center-1:00pm
Let's Talk Marine Electronics
Miami Beach Convention Center-2:00pm
How Do I Know If I Have the Correct Prop?
Miami Beach Convention Center-3:00pm
Winterization, Summarization and the Proper Way to Store Fuel in Your Boat During Off Season
Miami Beach Convention Center-4:00pm
Basic Motor Maintenance for Marine Engines
Miami Beach Convention Center-5:00pm
February 13th 2026
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-10:00am
Let's Talk Marine Electronics
Miami Beach Convention Center-11:00am
Boater Basics: Essential Skills Every Boater Needs to Know
Miami Beach Convention Center-12:00pm
Winterization, Summarization and the Proper Way to Store Fuel in Your Boat During Off Season
Miami Beach Convention Center-1:00pm
Basic Motor Maintenance for Marine Engines
Miami Beach Convention Center-2:00pm
Which Boat Is Right for You?
Miami Beach Convention Center-3:00pm
What is the Correct Fuel for My Motor and How Do I Care for It?
Miami Beach Convention Center-4:00pm
How Do I Know If I Have the Correct Prop?
Miami Beach Convention Center-5:00pm
February 14th 2026
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-10:00am
Basic Motor Maintenance for Marine Engines
Miami Beach Convention Center-11:00am
Boater Basics: Essential Skills Every Boater Needs to Know
Miami Beach Convention Center-12:00pm
Which Boat Is Right for You?
Miami Beach Convention Center-1:00pm
What Is the Correct Fuel for My Motor and How Do I Care for It?
Miami Beach Convention Center-2:00pm
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-3:00pm
Let’s Talk Marine Electronics
Miami Beach Convention Center-4:00pm
How Do I Know If I Have the Correct Prop?
Miami Beach Convention Center-5:00pm
Winterization, Summarization and the Proper Way to Store Fuel in Your Boat During Off Season
Miami Beach Convention Center-6:00pm
February 15th 2026
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-10:00am
How Do I Know If I Have the Correct Prop?
Miami Beach Convention Center-11:00am
Winterization, Summarization and the Proper Way to Store Fuel in Your Boat During Off Season
Miami Beach Convention Center-12:00pm
Let’s Talk Marine Electronics
Miami Beach Convention Center-1:00pm
Boater Basics: Essential Skills Every Boater Needs to Know
Miami Beach Convention Center-2:00pm
Ask Our Experts: Talk with a Tech Pro
Miami Beach Convention Center-3:00pm
Basic Motor Maintenance for Marine Engines
Miami Beach Convention Center-4:00pm
SAILOR'S COVE:
NEW for 2026: Sailors Cove arrives at IGY Yacht Haven Grande Miami with a dedicated sailing education program. Learn from top sailing pros through expert-led seminars covering a wide range of sail-focused topics.
February 12th 2026
ROOM A
Ask A Captain
Sailor's Cove Room A- 11:00am
Do you ever wish you had a professional captain onboard with you, so you could ask him or her questions about the situations that challenge you on the water? Join captains from the Annapolis School of Seamanship for a question and answer session. Come to the show and bring your questions!
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Diesel Basics
Sailor's Cove Room A- 12:30pm
Whether you’re thinking about buying a boat with a diesel engine or already own one and want to feel more confident? This seminar from the Annapolis School of Seamanship is a must for cruisers, weekenders, and aspiring boat owners alike. In 90 minutes, Captain John will break down the fundamentals of marine diesel engines in plain, practical terms. You’ll learn how they work, what the key components do, how systems connect—and what to do when something goes wrong. Whether you're hoping to avoid costly mistakes or just want to better understand what’s happening under the hatch, this seminar gives you the confidence to cruise smarter, safer, and more self-reliant.
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
How to Get Your Captain's License
Sailor's Cove Room A- 2:00pm
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Anchoring and Mooring
Sailor's Cove Room A- 3:30pm
Anchoring is an art as well as a skill. From choosing the best place to anchor to handling the ground tackle, this seminar will demystify the art of dropping the hook.
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
ROOM B
Understanding the Yacht Survey Process
Sailor's Cove Room B- 11:00am
Curtis Stokes will discuss the different types of surveys, how to find a surveyor, how the survey is conducted and finally how to understand the survey results.
Presented By: Curtis Stokes, Founder & Owner of Curtis Stokes & Associates
Galley Magic Underway: Cooking Tips & Tricks at Sea
Sailor's Cove Room B- 12:30pm
Cooking on a moving boat doesn’t have to be stressful (or messy). In this seminar, you’ll learn practical, proven tips to cook confidently while underway—covering galley safety, smart meal planning, prep shortcuts, storage systems, and easy clean-up routines. Walk away with simple techniques to prevent spills, stay organized, and keep meals delicious.
Presented By: Captain Kira Maixner, ASA Master Instructor and USCG 100-ton Master-
Owning a Charter Yacht
Sailor's Cove Room B- 2:00pm
Owning a yacht within a charter fleet is a popular alternative to traditional boat ownership. This seminar covers how charter ownership works including typical programs, financial breakdown, operational responsibilities, and lifestyle benefits. Explore the different programs available and key questions to ask before deciding if charter ownership is right for you.
Presented By: Capt. John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship & Ian Pederson, The Moorings
Marine Weather
Sailor's Cove Room B- 2:00pm
This seminar will cover the “what” and “why” of weather, allowing boaters to understand where to find important weather information using multiple resources and how to apply it to their boating lifestyle. Attendants will learn about the latest weather applications and how to use them effectively to determine whether to go or not to go. You don’t need to be a weatherman to know which way the wind blows. You just need to know how to find out what’s going to happen and how to make good decisions. This seminar covers everything from apps to passage planning to heavy weather tactics
Presented By: Captain Mike Riley, Annapolis School of Seamanship
February 13th 2026
ROOM A
Marine Weather
Sailor's Cove Room A- 11:00am
This seminar will cover the “what” and “why” of weather, allowing boaters to understand where to find important weather information using multiple resources and how to apply it to their boating lifestyle. Attendants will learn about the latest weather applications and how to use them effectively to determine whether to go or not to go. You don’t need to be a weatherman to know which way the wind blows. You just need to know how to find out what’s going to happen and how to make good decisions. This seminar covers everything from apps to passage planning to heavy weather tactics
Presented By: Captain Mike Riley, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Anchoring & Mooring
Sailor's Cove Room A- 12:30pm
Anchoring is an art as well as a skill. From choosing the best place to anchor to handling the ground tackle, this seminar will demystify the art of dropping the hook.
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Docking De-Stressed
Sailor's Cove Room A- 2:00pm
Is docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Topics Include:
Situational Awareness
Forces
Line Handling
Communication
Close Quarters Maneuvering
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
How to Get Your Captain's License
Sailor's Cove Room A- 3:30pm
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
ROOM B
Boat Buying
Sailor's Cove Room B- 11:00am
Curtis Stokes will discuss the proper boat buying process from A-Z or from shopping to closing. He will discuss how to find your dream boat, how to survey it and how to close on it. This seminar is packed with detail and a few war storiesIs docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Presented By: Curtis Stokes, Founder & Owner of Curtis Stokes & Associates
Collision Avoidance - Radar, AIS and the Nav. Rules
Sailor's Cove Room B- 12:30pm
Day, night and in restricted visibility, boating accidents are usually preventable. Captain John Martino of the Annapolis School of Seamanship will help you learn to avoid collisions underway by effectively using your Radar, AIS (Advance Identification System), VHF Radio, and Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA). This is a session you won't want to miss.
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
From Day Trips to Distance: Planning Your First 200+ NM Voyage
Sailor's Cove Room B- 2:00pm
Speaker: Captain Kira Maixner, ASA Master Instructor and USCG 100-ton Master- Description: Your first 200+ nautical mile trip is a major milestone—and it’s all about preparation. This seminar covers the key planning steps to set yourself up for success, including route and weather strategy, crew readiness, watch and fatigue planning, safety gear, provisioning, and smart systems for communication, navigation, and contingencies.
Presented By: Captain Kira Maixner, ASA Master Instructor and USCG 100-ton Master-
Celestial Navigation
Sailor's Cove Room B- 3:30pm
Discover the timeless art of celestial navigation in this informative seminar designed for sailors of all experience levels. Learn how mariners use the sun, moon, and stars to determine position at sea—no GPS required. We’ll cover the basics of sextant use, sight reduction, and how celestial techniques can enhance your offshore confidence and self-reliance.
Presented By: Captain Mike Riley, Annapolis School of Seamanship
February 14th 2026
ROOM A
Diesel Basics
Sailor's Cove Room A- 11:00am
Whether you’re thinking about buying a boat with a diesel engine or already own one and want to feel more confident? This seminar from the Annapolis School of Seamanship is a must for cruisers, weekenders, and aspiring boat owners alike. In 90 minutes, Captain John will break down the fundamentals of marine diesel engines in plain, practical terms. You’ll learn how they work, what the key components do, how systems connect—and what to do when something goes wrong. Whether you're hoping to avoid costly mistakes or just want to better understand what’s happening under the hatch, this seminar gives you the confidence to cruise smarter, safer, and more self-reliant.
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Foreign Flagging Your Yacht
Sailor's Cove Room A- 12:30pm
Foreign flagging refers to the documentation of a yacht in a foreign country for buyers who intend to use their foreign built yacht in the U.S. but do not intend to permanently import the yacht. Foreign flagging is generally available to yachts longer than 12 meters (39 feet) and might be an effective means of dealing with costly duties, tariffs and state taxes via a renewable one-year Cruising permit. A foreign flag may offer a broader range of options for insurance or financing; and can be an attractive option for yacht owners facing Lacey Act requirements related to the sourcing of all wood products aboard, which might otherwise prevent importation.
Presented By: Maritime Attorney Todd Lochner, Lochner Law Firm
Put Your Boat to Work
Sailor's Cove Room A- 2:00pm
It’s no secret that owning and operating your own boat is rewarding…but expensive. Like so many boaters, you may have wondered what it would take to earn a little income off your boat. There’s the thought of offering it for bareboat charters, or getting your captain’s license to become a bona fide charter captain.
But before you get carried away, there are a number of requirements to consider besides a simple captain’s license
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Docking De-Stressed
Sailor's Cove Room A- 3:30pm
Is docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Topics Include:Situational Awareness
Forces
Line Handling
Communication
Close Quarters Maneuvering
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
ROOM B
Cruising The Great Loop
Sailor's Cove Room B- 11:00am
In this seminar, Curtis Stokes brings the Great Loop dream to vivid life. Based on his real-world experience advising countless cruisers, Curtis explores the heart of the Looper lifestyle, from what you’ll see along the way and how long it takes, to the challenges couples face and how life afloat compares to life ashore. He’ll tackle the toughest questions: time, budget, safety, community, and planning. Start preparing for the unforgettable journey of the Great Loop. Perfect for seasoned sailors and armchair dreamers alike.
Presented By: Curtis Stokes, Founder & Owner of Curtis Stokes & Associates
Celestial Navigation
Sailor's Cove Room B- 12:30pm
Discover the timeless art of celestial navigation in this informative seminar designed for sailors of all experience levels. Learn how mariners use the sun, moon, and stars to determine position at sea—no GPS required. We’ll cover the basics of sextant use, sight reduction, and how celestial techniques can enhance your offshore confidence and self-reliance.
Presented By: Captain Mike Riley, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Boat Buying
Sailor's Cove Room B- 2:00pm
Curtis Stokes will discuss the proper boat buying process from A-Z or from shopping to closing. He will discuss how to find your dream boat, how to survey it and how to close on it. This seminar is packed with detail and a few war stories
Presented By: Curtis Stokes, Founder & Owner of Curtis Stokes & Associates
How to Get Your Captain's License
Sailor's Cove Room B- 3:30pm
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
February 15th 2026
ROOM A
Ask A Captain
Sailor's Cove Room A- 11:00am
Do you ever wish you had a professional captain onboard with you, so you could ask him or her questions about the situations that challenge you on the water? Join captains from the Annapolis School of Seamanship for a question and answer session. Come to the show and bring your questions!
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
How to Get Your Captain's License
Sailor's Cove Room A- 12:30am
Between the USCG requirements for sea time, physicals, applications and examinations, getting a captain’s license can seem daunting. Annapolis School of Seamanship’s expert captains will discuss the ins and outs of becoming a licensed captain.
Topics Include:
Types of Licenses
Pre-requisites
Application Process
Using your License
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship
Diesel Basics
Sailor's Cove Room A- 2:00pm
Whether you’re thinking about buying a boat with a diesel engine or already own one and want to feel more confident? This seminar from the Annapolis School of Seamanship is a must for cruisers, weekenders, and aspiring boat owners alike. In 90 minutes, Captain John will break down the fundamentals of marine diesel engines in plain, practical terms. You’ll learn how they work, what the key components do, how systems connect—and what to do when something goes wrong. Whether you're hoping to avoid costly mistakes or just want to better understand what’s happening under the hatch, this seminar gives you the confidence to cruise smarter, safer, and more self-reliant.
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
ROOM B
Docking De-Stressed
Sailor's Cove Room B- 11:00am
Is docking your vessel causing you stress and anxiety? Captain John from the Annapolis School of Seamanship show you the ropes, tricks, and techniques to make docking easy.
Topics Include:
Situational Awareness
ForcesLine Handling
Communication
Close Quarters Maneuvering
Presented By: Captain John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship
Chartering in the British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Sailor's Cove Room B- 12:30pm
Charter expert Ian Pedersen has worked with The Moorings & Sunsail for 15 years. He has sailed the Virgin Islands, St. Martin, Croatia, Thailand, and most recently the Bahamas, and is passionate about sharing those experiences with others. Join Ian has he provides a summary of The Moorings & Sunsail charter brands, and how to get started on your own charter adventure.
Presented By: Capt. John Martino, Annapolis School of Seamanship & Ian Pederson, The Moorings
Ask A Captain
Sailor's Cove Room B- 2:00pm
Do you ever wish you had a professional captain onboard with you, so you could ask him or her questions about the situations that challenge you on the water? Join captains from the Annapolis School of Seamanship for a question and answer session. Come to the show and bring your questions!
Presented By: Annapolis School of Seamanship