The 15th annual Progressive Insurance Catawba Island Boat Show will drop anchor at the prestigious Catawba Island Club, 4235 East Beach Club Rd., Port Clinton for its free weekend event on Friday through Sunday, April 26-28.

It’s a sure sign of spring in the Lake Erie Island region, helping launch the boating and fishing seasons.

There will be more than 125 new boats on display, ranging from inflatables and jet skis to small fishing boats, sleek sailboats and luxury yachts. Most are nestled in the Catawba Island Club docks, where island balladeer Steve Brownell will return entertain the crowds of boaters, or those who are eager to be on the water this summer in a new boat.

Most of the boats will be nestled in Catawba Island Club docks, ready for potential buyers to enjoy a sea trial on nearby Lake Erie. A variety of vendors will display boating accessories, equipment, marinas, services and boating information, all encircling the picturesque CIC’s marina basin.

The first on-water boat show of the new season, it also a rare time for visitors to access Catawba Island Club’s exclusive marina grounds. Satellite parking areas and shuttles will provide easy access to the show, and terrific views of Lake Erie.

Visitors can board the 2019 boat models from area dealers that have recently been arriving since the big indoor show in Cleveland last January. The format also allows dealers to show off larger models that need an in-water dock to call home.

In addition to new models, select pre-owned boats are also a feature of the show. The pre-owned boats are mostly larger models, as well.

A distinctly festive atmosphere has become a trademark of the show, which has been dubbed “the Lake Erie boating season’s kick-off party.”

There is live music on the entertainment deck overlooking the show, special wine-tasting events, a craft beer lover’s party and even a “Discover Sailing” feature for those who want to sample sailing for the first time.

Show admission is free, as is nearby parking with free shuttles. Show hours will be: Friday, noon-6 p.m.; Saturday, 110 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For details, visit catawbaislandboatshow.com.

The spacious marina of the prestigious Catawba Island Club on the Catawba Peninsula of Lake Erie will host the 15th annual Progressive Insurance Catawba Island Boat Show on April 26-28, featuring more than 125 sail and powerboats.

Lake Erie Island balladeer Steve Brownell will return to the Catawba Island Boat Show with a variety of Lake Erie Island tunes.