About the Show

Welcome to the 16th annual Strictly Sail Chicago Boat Show.

The Midwest’s only and the nation’s largest indoor all-sail boat show arrives January 27–30, 2011 at Chicago's famous Navy Pier. Strictly Sail Chicago has become a must do event for all sailors and has become Chicago’s favorite boat show. The 2011 Strictly Sail Chicago Show offers more boats, more gear, more seminars and more fun than ever. Celebrating 16 years at Chicago's famous Navy Pier, the 2011 show has promise to be unlike any other show in the US!

The festivities begin Thursday, January 27th and will not end until the final bell sounds on Sunday, January 30th. This four-day sailing extravaganza features the latest and greatest the sailing industry has to offer. You’ll find the latest boat designs and the designers themselves, the newest sailing gear, accessories and hardware from the industries top suppliers and the most up to date charter information all from more than 250 exhibiting companies from around the globe.

Strictly Sail shows have become a resource for learning and fun, putting ‘edutainment’ at the forefront of the planning. Every Strictly Sail Show has added more interactive exhibits and more hands on seminars providing an opportunity for new sailors to learn about sailing and for the more experienced sailor to improve their skills and become more confident at the helm.

Sailors of all ages and abilities find Strictly Sail Chicago “the sailing event” of the year. This year's activities include a full schedule of seminars from the most renowned sailors in the world, live music, daily prizes and special events for every attendee. Additionally, Navy Pier, located on Chicago’s famous waterfront, offers restaurants, stores and fun filled activities to fill every landlubber’s day. Make it a day trip or make it a weekend getaway, Strictly Sail Chicago promises to deliver an experience that you'll talk about until you return next year.

Features Currently Being Planned Include:

SEMINARS—World adventure cruisers, authors, experts in navigation software and sailing equipment specialist will share their stories and knowledge through the show's extensive seminar program. Unless noted on the schedule all seminars are free with the price of admission. Seminars are subject to change so please check the website frequently. (seminars page)

AUTHOR’S CORNER—Some of the greatest adventurers of our time will be on hand to share their sailing experiences. Stop by the AC and meet your favorite author. Stop back for a list of authors in attendance.

REMOTE CONTROL SAILING POND (Back for 2011)  We'll have boats on the water at the 16th annual Strictly Sail Chicago Show. By popular demand we're bringing back the remote control sailing pond to Strictly Sail Chicago. Challenge your family and friends or bring a group from your local sailing club. Everyone gets a chance to race against their closest worthy opponent or race against the clock and take home bregging rights as the fastest sailor at Strictly Sail.

Plus: The Green Boating Zone, The Affordability Pavilion, Sail Magazine's Innovation Station, Boogie Heads, boat building and coloring contests for kids and more fun than ever before.

Strictly Sail has something for everyone!  (Features)

No dogs permitted unless they are working.