Founders of the Wilmington Boat Show, JBM & Associates, have announced the decision to discontinue the annual event.

“We are grateful to the boating community in Wilmington and the surrounding areas who have supported the show from the very beginning,” said Jacqueline McGuinness, President of JBM & Associates and founder of the show.

McGuinness cited a combination of ongoing challenges that have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the event. Over the past decade, the show has faced significant weather-related disruptions, including multiple hurricanes. Due to scheduling limitations at the convention center and the City’s busy calendar of special events, organizers have been unable to shift the show to a more favorable time of year.

Another major factor has been limited exhibit space. “The current facility cannot meet dealer demand—we could easily utilize an additional 100,000 square feet,” McGuinness noted.

The Wilmington Boat Show launched in 2016 following two years of planning and featured a strong in-water component in partnership with Port City Marina. However, after the initial five-year agreement ended, organizers were unable to renew due to changes at the marina.

“Inclement weather, construction challenges, and rising event costs have created too many obstacles for our team to overcome,” McGuinness said.

The organization expressed appreciation for its partners and supporters. “We are thankful to the Convention Center, Wilmington Water Tours, Cape Fear Community College, Battleship North Carolina, and the many sponsors, exhibitors, and vendors we’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years,” she added. “We leave Wilmington with great memories and lasting friendships, and we would welcome the opportunity to return should the facility expand in the future.”

JBM & Associates produces several other events across the Southeast, including the Charleston Boat Show, Columbia Boat Show, and Savannah Boat Show. The company also founded the nonprofit Everything Outdoor Fest in Upstate South Carolina. Established in 2001 in Charleston, SC, JBM & Associates has produced more than 100 successful events throughout the region.