YORKTOWN Battle of the Boats

WORKBOAT LIFE wanted to do something for the watermen and last year hosted the first annual “Yorktown Workboat Races – Workboat Model Show – Boat Show 2024”. We wanted the watermen to have the opportunity to gather and have some fun. It was a big success, drawing watermen and over 40 boats from all around the bay, including some from Maryland. They were excited to compete against one another and demonstrate what their boats are capable of. We had the Linda Carol buyboat built in 1931, there on the finish line, waving the checkered flag for the winners. She had been saved previously from burning up in a fire where the fireboats of Poquoson and York County moored her. We called up the crew that had saved her and gave them awards for their quick, decisive action.

The buyboat Mobjack was there in all her glory, built in 1947, which can carry 2,200 bushels of seed oysters to be replanted on the bay. The event drew local celebrities from surrounding areas to participate with us. The York County Board of Supervisors presented us with a Proclamation proclaiming June 2, 2024, to be Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Day. We had great sponsors step up to fully fund this great event. A significant portion of the local population is tied to this industry through a deep heritage, making it a rich resource for the public to draw upon. We had great partners and vendors as well, having something for everyone. We had activities and entertainment for the children. And some of the best fresh local seafood was prepared onsite.

The very talented Workboat Model Builders filled the venue for the model show, with many attendees asking how they could participate in 2025. The local businesses all benefited significantly, with the Hotel being fully booked, as well as the restaurants and shops. It was a complete success for ALL!!! A real win-win!!!

We have now made the dive into 2025 and planned the “Yorktown Workboat Races – Workboat Model Show – Art Show – Boat Show 2025”. This came together nicely and was anticipated by all!!! This year, we added the Juried Art Show, featuring great paintings. Several Deadrise Buyboats that reached 100 years of service in 2025 were on-site to celebrate this milestone.

On Saturday, May 31st, the public was invited to visit us at the Yorktown Watermen’s Museum location to see, learn, and enjoy the Waterman Way!! Activities began at 10 am and lasted until 3 pm. From 6 pm to 9 pm, we hosted the Waterman Appreciation Dinner, featuring food, music, cornhole, and lots of fun!!

On Sunday, June 1st, the Workboat Model Show – Art Show took place from 11 am to 4 pm, during which it was judged and awarded. The Captains Meeting was at 11 am with an Opening Ceremony for the Yorktown Workboat Races – Yorktown Battle of the Boats 2025 beginning at 12:30 pm.

The Commonwealth of Virginia was involved with dignitaries and a Proclamation of their own, presented to us. We were honored to have Delegate Chad Green present us with a Resolution from the Virginia House of Delegates. Jamie Green, Commissioner of the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, presented us with a Proclamation signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia, declaring June to be Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Month.

This has proven to be its own stand-alone festival, with 2025 being planned as a weekend event featuring activities on Friday evening, all day Saturday, and all day Sunday. Everyone was invited to get your salt on!!! Get some sand on your toes and some sun on your nose, living life salty!!! Fun-filled with something for everyone!!! It truly was a celebration !!

2026 is being planned as a two-day event with workboat races on Saturday and boat docking competition on Sunday. This will be a huge event, drawing many from all around.