Experience Timeless Elegance • Wine Country Classic Boat Show

Written By Claudia Milroy

Every July, the southern shore of Keuka Lake transforms into a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and Finger Lakes charm as the Wine Country Classic Boat Show returns to Depot Park in beautiful Hammondsport, New York. This beloved annual tradition brings together antique and classic wooden boats, passionate collectors, and visitors looking to experience one of the region’s most picturesque summer events.

Hosted by Wine Country Classic Boats, a chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS), the show celebrates the preservation and appreciation of historic watercraft while showcasing the beauty of Keuka Lake—one of the Finger Lakes’ most iconic destinations. The 2026 show takes place on Saturday, July 18 from 10am to 4pm at Depot Park along the Hammondsport waterfront.

A Walk Through Boating History

Whether you’re a lifelong boater or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship, the boat show offers countless opportunities for photography, conversation, and inspiration.

Stroll along the park’s waterfront to discover gleaming mahogany runabouts, elegant Chris-Crafts, vintage Century boats, handcrafted launches, and meticulously restored wooden classics that represent decades of American boatbuilding excellence. Special for this year - the Boat Show is featuring Finger Lakes made boats!

The Boat Show begins at 10:00 a.m., with classic and antique boats displayed along the public docks. Stroll from dock to dock at your own pace and admire these beautifully restored vessels up close. Many of the owners are on hand to share restoration stories, historical insights, and the passion that keeps these floating works of art on the water.

One of the day's most anticipated highlights is the Boat Parade. Beginning at 3:00 p.m., many of the featured boats leave the docks and cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Keuka Lake. Watching these historic vessels underway is an unforgettable experience that brings the lake's rich boating heritage to life. The parade concludes around 4:00 p.m., when the boats begin leaving the water.

Thank You to the Sponsors

The Wine Country Classic Boat Show is made possible through the generous support of local businesses, and I'd like to recognize two longtime supporters: Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and Weis Vineyards. If you're visiting the Finger Lakes, be sure to stop by and experience these outstanding wineries.


Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport, NY 14840

https://www.drfrankwines.com/


Weis Vineyards

10014 Day Rd Hammondsport NY 14840

https://www.weisvineyards.com/

I'd also encourage you to check out the boat show's other valued supporters, including Keuka Spring Vineyards, Ravines Wine Cellars, and Living Roots Wine & Co. Their continued support helps make this event possible.

ALL IMAGES PROVIDED BY WINE COUNTRY CLASSIC BOAT SHOW

Showcase Your Classic Boat This Year

Do you have a classic boat? Register here: https://boatshow.winecountryclassicboats.com/register/

Friday evening reception and Saturday Awards and Dinner are available for purchase for boat registries. 

Whether you’re captivated by vintage wooden boats, scenic lake views, or exceptional Finger Lakes wines, this annual event offers the perfect combination of all three.

Water & Wine Weekly Tip

Arrive early to enjoy the best views of the boats before the crowds gather. Bring your camera, wear comfortable walking shoes, and plan to spend the afternoon exploring Hammondsport’s wineries, restaurants, and local shops after visiting the show. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Keuka Lake in one unforgettable day. 

Spend the day admiring classic boats before exploring everything the area has to offer:

  • Enjoy wine tastings at nearby Finger Lakes wineries.

  • Visit local breweries, tasting rooms, and restaurants.

  • Browse the shops along Pulteney Square.

  • Visit the Finger Lakes Boating Museum

  • Tour the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum and learn about Hammondsport’s aviation heritage.

  • Relax along the Keuka Lake waterfront with an ice cream or picnic.

It’s the kind of summer day that captures everything people love about the Finger Lakes.

Claudia Milroy

Thank you for stopping by! I hope you stay awhile and come back often. I started the weekly newsletter and this website for tourists and locals alike. I once was a tourist (over a decade ago) and now I’m a local, living here, working here, raising a family here! And I sure do love it!

Naturally I first fell in love with the rolling hills and cool lake breezes. But as I returned again and again, for a different season and different reason, Penn Yan stuck with me. I recall first it was the hint of grape when you drive by a vineyard and then the caramelized, roasted air that wafted down Main Street from Birkett Mills. Visit after visit my husband and I hit all the tourists stops because of my curiosity. Full disclosure - my husband was raised in Penn Yan and he knew all the ins and outs of the area to woo me! Travel & history nerd here! So, through our years of dating and early years of marriage (p.s. we got married in the Finger Lakes!) we would visit family, friends, and our favorite spots. Then the day came when our son was just 6 months old and we decided it was time to move to Penn Yan! Now 10 years later I’m here to share my love of this place with you!

I hope you enjoy this, I hope you take away some cool and fun inspiration for your next adventure. If you're planning a trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out - I’d love to personalize an experience or a 7 day itinerary for you.

https://waterandwineweekly.com
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