36th Annual Battleship Run
The 36th Annual Battleship Run is scheduled for July 18, 2026, on Seneca Lake, continuing one of the longest-running and most respected grassroots performance boating events in the country. Organized by the Rochester Offshore Powerboat Association, the annual run has become a staple of the Upstate New York offshore boating scene and remains known for its relaxed atmosphere, scenic Finger Lakes setting, and strong focus on boating camaraderie and safety.
Centered around the Showboat Hotel and marina facilities in Himrod, the Battleship Run traditionally begins Friday evening as participants arrive, launch boats, settle into marina slips, and gather for dockside social events ahead of Saturday’s run. Organizers describe the event as intentionally smaller and more personal than many national poker runs, helping maintain the close-knit atmosphere that has defined the run for more than three decades.
Saturday morning activities include breakfast, the mandatory driver’s meeting, and fleet assignments based on cruising speed. Boats are typically divided into multiple pace groups ranging from recreational 45–50 mph fleets to higher-performance 100+ mph groups, allowing participants to choose a comfortable run pace for their experience level and boat capability.
The poker run route traditionally takes participants north and south across portions of Seneca Lake with multiple waterfront stops including Barrett Marine and Watkins Glen. Participants collect poker cards at designated docks while enjoying lunch stops, marina gatherings, and scenic cruising throughout New York’s Finger Lakes region. Organizers emphasize that the event is built around safe fun, respectful boating, and enjoying the day on the water rather than aggressive competition.
According to longtime ROPA president and founding member Tom Warda, the Battleship Run remains intentionally capped at approximately 55 boats in order to preserve the comfortable atmosphere and manageable marina logistics that have helped the event maintain its loyal following for decades. Registration for the 2026 event is expected to open May 1 and traditionally fills quickly.
The event’s name traces back to a former U.S. Navy floating facility once located on Seneca Lake, which inspired organizers to name the run after the classic “Battleship” board game during the event’s early years. Over time, the Battleship Run evolved into one of the Northeast’s most recognizable offshore boating gatherings while maintaining a smaller, family-oriented culture compared to many national poker runs.
The Battleship Run has also gained increasing national visibility through coverage from Speed On The Water, which recently referred to the event as “The World’s Friendliest Battleship Run.” Coverage highlighted the event’s scenic Finger Lakes location, welcoming atmosphere, and emphasis on long-standing friendships throughout the performance boating community.
Proceeds from the annual run support local organizations including the Himrod Volunteer Fire Department, with fundraising generated through registration fees, raffles, sponsorships, and event activities. Organizers noted that annual donations commonly total several thousand dollars for local community support efforts.
Additional registration details, hotel information, and event schedules for the 2026 Battleship Run are available through Rochester Offshore Powerboat Association.