Biz Buzz, January 2026: Business News for the Chesapeake and Mid-Atlantic Marine Industry
- beth443
- 14 minutes ago
- 4 min read
SPF-360's Biz Buzz brings you the Chesapeake buzz about who's making waves, debuting new products, on the move, and more marine business industry news—plus, new places to pick up SpinSheet, PropTalk, and FishTalk.
MAKING WAVES
Marine Trades Association of Maryland
The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) announced the launch of its Marine Technician Apprenticeship Program during the Annapolis Powerboat Show. This first in the state initiative will provide aspiring techs with comprehensive on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and a direct pathway to a career in recreational boating. It also provides tax benefits and reimbursement to businesses. Developed through a grant from the City of Annapolis, the program addresses the growing demand for skilled marine technicians in the city and helps close the talent gap within businesses. Apprentices will learn from industry veterans while gaining hands-on experience with inboard and outboard engines, electrical systems, vessel systems, and marina operations. Once placements are made in Annapolis, MTAM will make arrangements to slot apprentices with members in other areas of the state. mtam.org
Annapolis Boat Shows
In December, Annapolis Boat Shows presented a check for $564,320 to the City of Annapolis, reflecting the city’s share of ticket revenue from the 2025 Annapolis Powerboat and Sailboat Shows held this past October. Under the long-standing agreement between the two organizations, the City receives 50 percent of ticket sales after the 10 percent state admissions tax.
This year’s shows brought tens of thousands of visitors from all 50 states and more than 40 countries to City Dock, delivering a significant boost to local businesses and tourism. More than 650 exhibitors filled the floating docks and shoreline, ranging from international boat manufacturers to local clothing retailers. “It was a banner year for the boat shows,” said Mary Ewenson, president of the shows. “Despite a couple of rough weather days, we had terrific attendance. These crowds make our exhibitors happy, generate revenue for the city, support local businesses, and cement Annapolis as a hub for the boating industry.”
Annapolis Boat Shows produces the premier series of power and sail events in the country. The Annapolis Sailboat Show is the largest in the world, drawing manufacturers and attendees from across the globe. The spring and fall powerboat shows highlight the latest in marine technology and attract the largest crowds north of Fort Lauderdale. annapolisboatshows.com
ON THE MOVE
Bluewater Yacht Sales
Following the acquisition of Port Annapolis by Safe Harbor Marinas, Bluewater Yacht Sales will be relocating to the 16-acre boatyard and marina facility. Bluewater has operated in and around Annapolis for over 30 years, with the past five years spent on Spa Creek near downtown. The new location will allow for a larger footprint and more vessel storage options, as well as greater service capabilities and more opportunities for growth. Bluewater Yacht Sales general manager Wyatt Lane says, “The Bluewater team is proud to be part of Safe Harbor’s continued expansion in Annapolis. This latest acquisition strengthens our ability to serve our customers with enhanced support and services throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.”
As a subsidiary of Safe Harbor Marinas, Bluewater Yacht Sales will now benefit from having common ownership with sales, service, storage, and support in one location. Port Annapolis is currently one of the largest marina operations in the Annapolis area, with a 250-slip marina, expansive dry storage, and a full-service boatyard. Service capabilities include two marine travelifts with the ability to haul boats up to 80 feet, bottom painting and barrier coatings, engine and mechanical repairs, electronics, plumbing, rigging, and general maintenance. The property also includes a wide assortment of commercial spaces and resort-style amenities to support their members and guests. Safe Harbor Marinas closed on Port Annapolis on November 11, making it the 151st location to join their global portfolio of marinas and shipyards. Bluewater Yacht Sales will begin their move to Safe Harbor Port Annapolis with a planned opening in early 2026. bluewateryachtsales.com
Legasea Marine
Legasea Marine is expanding its presence into southern Hampton Roads with the launch of “Legasea at Browning’s Marine,” a new sales location on Shore Drive that brings Legasea’s most popular boat models directly to the Chic’s Beach corridor. This collaboration marks an exciting step for Legasea Marine’s growth in the Mid-Atlantic region, making its boats more accessible to Virginia Beach boaters and the communities south of the company’s primary location in Yorktown. For Browning’s Marine, the partnership adds a next-generation lineup of high-quality vessels, complementing its current sales and service offerings. This partnership is a natural fit between two long-established names in the region’s boating community. Legasea Marine’s Hall family has been a yacht sales and service mainstay in Hampton Roads, and beyond, for nearly 60 years. And Browning’s Marine, a third-generation family business, has been an essential piece of the local boating fabric since 1955. The Browning’s shop, located at 3829 Shore Drive, recently began a full interior refresh to create an expanded indoor showroom to accommodate larger vessels. Along with the Bentley Pontoons displayed by Browning's Marine, beginning in December, customers will be able to view a curated lineup of new models from Albemarle, Axopar, Contender, MJM, Monterey, Parker and Phenom Yachts offered for sale by Legasea Marine. legaseamarine.com
New Places To Pick Up SPF-360 Publications:
Shady Side Market in Shady Side, MD
Larry’s Outdoor Store in Rock Hall, MD
Go Mart in Church Hill, MD
Fairfield Inn & Suites Annapolis
Residence Inn by Marriott Annapolis
Shady Side Market in Shady Side, MD
Molly’s Place in Kennedyville, MD
Go Mart in Church Hill, MD
Fairfield Inn and Suites Annapolis
Residence Inn Marriott Annapolis
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