Antique boats make a splash on Lake Coeur d'Alene

Scattered showers didn't stop Coeur d’Alene’s annual Antique and Classic Boat Festival from making a splash this weekend.  

Families out for a casual walkthrough and boat enthusiasts alike crowded the iconic floating boardwalk on Lake Coeur d’Alene on Saturday. Dozens of meticulously restored antique boats were on display in the stalls, and while most boasted the classic Mahagony finish, some fiberglass and aluminum models added a unique flair to the show.  

Some who were already strolling along Sherman Avenue for the Coeur d’Alene Street Fair and Taste of Coeur d’Alene events found the boat festival to be an exciting, unexpected addition to the festivities. 

“We didn’t know this was going on down here, but we’re glad we checked it out,” Chrissy Evers said. “It’s great to be along the water, too.” 

Others had a specific goal for this year's Boat Festival: Dan White, a participant in the festival since 2001, was looking to sell his 1965 Century Resorter, which won him first prize at the International Antique and Classic Wood Boat Show in 2021. White said that this year’s show was even better than past years. 

“This year is the most organized we’ve had and a great turnout,” he said.  

Today is the last chance to check out the Antique and Classic Boat Festival. After that, it's “bon voyage” until next year.