Mahogany and Merlot

In 1993, the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum held their first ever “crew weekend” as a reward for their hardworking volunteers. Offering rides in vintage hydroplanes to volunteers that put in the necessary hours, the museum used the same racecourse that held the Apple Cup races in 1950s. Continuing for several years, the event became a tradition for the Chelan and surrounding community. 

The Vintage category continued to grow as events were added to the schedule and former racers “resurrected” wood-constructed boats. As these racers began attending the local inboard events in Washington interest in vintage exhibitions grew. Increasing fan interest and participation gave the museum an opportunity to make a larger event.

In 2008, the Hydroplane & Raceboat Museum’s “Crew Weekend” had officially grown into an organized event. Mahogany and Merlot features vintage unlimited and inboard exhibitions sanctioned by the American Power Boat Association. 

Today, spectators flock to Chelan for Mahogany and Merlot, the largest APBA Vintage event on the West Coast. The event features wine tasting at local vineyards and an antique classic boat and car show. Now a large tourist event for Chelan, this annual fall classic featured exhibition runs from eleven vintage unlimited hydroplanes and over 25 vintage inboards in 2018.

Mahogany and Merlot takes place during the first weekend of October at Chelan’s Don Morse Memorial Park and is free to the public. To learn more about Chelan, Washington, please visit the Chelan Camber of Commerce website. Contact us for additional event information.