The Westport Fishermen’s Association annual classic wooden boat show will be held on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17 and 18 at the Horseneck Point Life Saving Station, 241 East Beach Road. This event is free and open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm both days.

The exhibit will be featuring an array of beautiful and hand-built classic boats displayed in and around the Life Saving Station and across the street on the landing.  There will also be some hand crafted models, antique boatbuilding and woodworking tools and other marine related items on display.  Featured as well this year are an historic skiff and small sailboat for sale, with all proceeds to benefit the WFA.

On Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. there will be pilot gig rowing demonstrations (weather permitting) by Westport’s own “Dharma Voyager” rowing club. Pilot gigs have six rowers and a coxswain. They date back to the 17th century although nowadays pilot gigs are used primarily for sport rowing.

Attendees can also vote for their favorite boat on display and the “Best in Show” winner will be announced on Sunday afternoon. The winning boat owner gets bragging rights and a free t-shirt.

Refreshments, WFA merchandise and the marine equipment flea market will be available on both days.

The Westport Fishermen’s Association is a grass roots non-profit that has been advocating for the protection of the Westport River since 1983. The WFA manages the Horseneck Point Life Saving Station and Visitor Center for the public, provides merit scholarships to graduating high school students as well as continuing scholarships for college students, and sponsors and advocates for programs related to marine wildlife preservation and river restoration.

Visit www.westportriver.org for more details.