For thousands of people who descended on Annapolis yesterday, it was "the boat show."

But Tom Broadwick, a retired lawyer from Tallahassee, Fla., had another description for the 27th annual United States Powerboat Show: "This is our convention."

"We've been coming for the last 20 years," said Broadwick, 53, a weekend sailor -- except for this week, when he drove 21 hours with his wife to take in the 600 exhibits at the Annapolis City Dock and harbor. "This is the best show I've seen in years. There are more boats here and a real variety."

Billed as the nation's oldest and largest fall, in-water powerboat show, the event runs through 6 p.m. today.

Many said they came to the show to buy equipment to update boats purchased at the Annapolis show in years past. "This is a great place to come to learn about the latest in boat fashion and to become educated on how to maintain your boat all year round," said Richard Peters of Newark, N.J.

Some visitors said they came to the show even though they had no intention of buying one of the boats, which ranged in price from $10,000 to $300,000.

"Coming here is a tradition and the beautiful weather makes it even better," said Joyce Wilson, 42, of Baltimore.

Pub Date: 10/18/98