Education

Presented by Captain Cheryl Duvall of Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association

This presentation covers how to keep your boat looking better than new, including cleaning and maintenance dos and don’ts, plus detailing tips for boaters.

Presented by Christian Buchleitner of Mad Soaps Boat Detailing

Propane and butane, also known as LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas), are the most common cooking fuels used on boats. While efficient, cost effective, and widely available, these fuels can also be dangerous. This seminar gives you the tools you need to use propane fuel safely on the water. It explains boat propane systems, propane safety, and how to keep your boat and crew safe.

Presented by Michael Maszczenski and Joe Burke of US Power Squadrons.

Navigation apps can make a huge difference in keeping you safe, confident, and informed on the water. Learn how they help with route planning/tracking, finding favorite destinations, sharing your location, checking weather and tides, getting safety alerts, integration with your boat electronics and much more.

Presented by Jeff Foulk of  ArgoNav

Presented by Michael Maszczenski and Joe Burke of US Power Squadrons.

AIS Electronics for Boaters can help you decide if Automatic Identification System (AIS) electronics are right for you. AIS electronics aren’t just for commercial vessels. Using AIS can help you navigate crowded waterways easily and safely.

With AIS marine electronics onboard, you can identify potential dangers and quickly make decisions on the water. Many systems share your boat’s information with other boats so they can also make better, safer boating decisions.

In this seminar, you will learn what AIS does, how it works, whether you need an AIS system, how AIS is different from radar, how to use AIS to navigate more safely, and what to consider when integrating AIS with your existing electronics.

 Presented by Capt. Michael Dodd of of Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association

Ready to turn your Great Loop dreams into reality? This session covers everything you need to plan, equip, and enjoy your journey—from must-have electronics and weather apps to guides, galley gear, and more. We’ll share practical tips for life aboard, managing what you leave behind, and keeping your adventure running smoothly. Whether you’re just starting your planning or fine-tuning your preparations, this seminar will give you the tools to make your Great Loop adventure a success.

Presented by Kim Russo, Executive Director,  American Great Look Cruising Association

Presented by Jeff Foulk of  ArgoNav

Ready to buy a used powerboat? Learn what to look for when you see your dream boat, which questions to ask the seller or broker about its history, and how to get the best value. Scott Berg, a member of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors, will share expert guidance to help you make a confident purchase.

presented by Scott Berg, from CBW Marine Surveyor, Consultant and Captain

Loopers cruise the 6,000-mile Great Loop route aboard their own boats completing a circumnavigation of the eastern U.S. and part of Canada via mostly protected inland waterways. The Great Loop route follows the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the Chesapeake Bay, and the New York Canals northwards, goes across the Great Lakes, south on the Inland Rivers, and then east Gulf Coast to complete the Loop.

presented by Kim Russo, Executive Director,  American Great Look Cruising Association

Fishing for striped bass in the Chesapeake has evolved in recent years, as anglers learn to cope with slot limits, fewer fish, and changing environmental conditions. Go fishing the same way in the same places as you did a decade ago, and you’re likely to catch a skunk. A much better move would be to join FishTalk angler in chief Lenny Rudow at the Bay Bridge Boat Show at Safe Harbor Narrows Point, as he runs down the tactics and tips anglers use to catch rockfish in the modern era. Jigging, fishing live bait, and trolling will all be on the agenda.

presented by Lenny Rudow with FishTalk Magazine

Come aboard for a week or weekend and cruise protected waters with soft bottoms and explore a notable diversity of town and country. The Chesapeake has so many creeks, coves, rivers and ports to discover that one could possibly spend their whole life boating them and never visit the same place twice! Learn sample cruises of both long and short duration and find out how the history and culture of the Bay influences what you’ll see along the way.

Presented by John Stefancik, executive director of the Marine Trades Association of Maryland.