Boat shows are the best way to see dozens of vessels in one place, catch the latest trends and talk to builders. Some are consumer, in-water events; others are indoor or purely industry fairs. Here’s an opinionated overview of the shows worth having on your radar — from Europe to the rest of the world.
Europe
Cannes Yachting Festival (France, September) — one of Europe’s largest in-water events, from motor vessels to large yachts.
Monaco Yacht Show (September) — the superyacht showcase and a must for the premium world.
Salone Nautico (Genoa, Italy, September) — one of the oldest and largest fairs in the Mediterranean.
boot Düsseldorf (Germany, January) — the largest indoor water sports fair in the world, spanning everything from kayaks to yachts and equipment.
Southampton International Boat Show (UK, September) — a major in-water show with a rich programme.
Poland
Poland Boat Show (Ptak Warsaw Expo, near Warsaw, October) — Poland’s largest indoor boat and water sports fair. Alongside it runs the industry event BOAT TECHNICA — a fair for yacht construction and equipment.
Middle East & USA
Dubai International Boat Show — the flagship marine event of the Gulf region.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) (USA, autumn) — one of the largest yachting events in the world and the showcase of the American market.
Industry (B2B)
METSTRADE (Amsterdam, November) — the world’s largest trade fair for marine equipment and technology. Together with Poland’s BOAT TECHNICA, it’s where the technical heart of the industry beats.
Which show is right for you
Looking for your own boat? Choose consumer, in-water shows (Cannes, Southampton) or large indoor fairs (Poland Boat Show, boot Düsseldorf). Representing a shipyard or design office? Aim for the industry events (BOAT TECHNICA, METSTRADE). Interested in the premium segment? Monaco and FLIBS.
Dates change every year — check the current schedule on each organiser’s website before you travel.
Planning a custom yacht?
Shows are great research, but if no stock vessel meets your expectations, consider a design built around you. See our projects or request a design.