Waterfest Returns to Englewood Beach
Powerboat racing returns to the Suncoast 9-12 October 2025 during the annual Englewood Beach Waterfest event. This year Englewood will host the 2025 World Championship for the (APBA) American Powerboat Association and the UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique).
The weekend festivities begin with a PowerUp Pre-Race Party on Thursday, 9 October, from 5-10 pm at The Waverly Restaurant.
On Friday, race fans have a chance to meet teams from around the world during the Block Party taking place along Historic Dearborn Street from 5-10 pm. This free event offers an opportunity for families to get an up-close view of the race teams participating, meet the crews, and enjoy food and retail wares from local vendors whilst listening to live music by *Crossfire Creek* on the Dignam Family Stage at Pioneer Plaza.
On Saturday and Sunday, over 50 race teams from around the world will compete for the chequered flag with over $50,000 in prize money up for grabs.
Jay Henderson, President of the Board for Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc stated: “We are honoured to be selected for the finals of the APBA-UIM World Championship. The Charlotte County community has supported offshore racing at Englewood Beach since 2015. Being selected to decide the World Champion in each class at our event underscores the commitment of our 100% Volunteer team and our community.”
The Waterfest event is presented this year by North Myrtle Beach RV Resort and Dry Dock Marina, and sponsored by Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) and the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA). Many other local and regional sponsors have been supporting this annual event and continue to do so with the 2025 production.
Two-day general admission tickets are $35 in advance and available online, and $40 at the gate – children 12 years or younger are free. Parking is free with complimentary bus transportation to Englewood Beach available.
Lucy Nicandri is a prominent figure in Florida’s powerboat racing community, known for her extensive involvement in event organisation and media relations. She has played a pivotal role in promoting and expanding the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, transforming it from a weekend race into a week-long festival featuring various community events.
In addition to her work with Suncoast Charities for Children, Nicandri serves as the Media and Marketing Officer for Powerboat P1 USA. In this capacity, she manages media relations and marketing efforts for events such as the Keltec Thunder on Cocoa Beach, ensuring effective communication and promotion of the sport.
Thunder on Cocoa Beach
Nicandri’s dedication to the sport and her community has earned her recognition, including the Sarasota Sunrise Rotary Club’s first annual David R. Mills “Service Above Self” Award, highlighting her exceptional service to the Sarasota area.
