From braving the North Sea to sailing the calm waters of the Mediterranean, Europe is one of the major markets for the world’s boating enthusiasts. It’s no wonder then, that some of the biggest and best boat shows in the world are in Europe. These trade shows give builders the chance to show off their latest creations and yacht enthusiasts, buyers, and industry professionals the opportunity to compare watercraft up close and in person.
Europe’s Premier Boat Shows
Which are the best boat shows in Europe? Here are our top three recommendations for shows you certainly shouldn’t miss.
Düsseldorf Boat Show
18-26 January 2025 (20-28 January 2024)
Düsseldorf, Germany
The Düsseldorf Boat Show is also known as boot Düsseldorf (pronounced “boat”). It began in 1969 with 116 exhibitors and counting 34,000 visitors in its first year. Since then, it has grown into the world’s largest watersports trade fair, hosting over 1,600 exhibitors from over 65 countries in over 2 million square feet of exhibition halls. This is also the first major show in the yachting calendar and lets enthusiasts secure purchases in plenty of time before the best sailing season begins.
This show is notable for its sheer size and number of boats shown. It’s also one of the few shows where superyachts of up to 180 grt (or 18,000 cubic feet) are put on display in an indoor space. The show includes diverse stage programs and watersports demonstrations as well.
Highlights
Boot Düsseldorf is the stage for the European Yacht of the Year and European Powerboat of the Year Awards. Competitor crafts are shown and test-driven at this boat show. Hundreds of new boats are also unveiled at this show annually.
Tips for visiting
- Check the exhibition map to find your specific areas of interest.
- Book tickets in advance, starting in September, to avoid lines.
- Get a full day in – the show runs from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Palma International Boat Show
30 April – 3 May 2025 (25-28 April 2024)
Palma, Mallorca Island, Spain
The Palma International Boat Show has been a fixture of the European circuit since it began in 2012. Based in a stunning Mediterranean location on the island of Mallorca, this festival is a must-see for boat lovers. It attracts enthusiasts and buyers, especially yacht brokerages from around the world, eager to see the premiers of some of the world’s best big boats. This show is fast becoming one the most important in the Mediterranean due to Mallorca’s reputation as a top international sailing location.
Highlights
Aside from the great weather and extensive fine dining opportunities at this luxurious show, the biggest highlight has to be its Superyacht Village. This display of 80 superyachts all over 75 feet is one of the most impressive collections in the world.
Tips for visiting
- Plan your time well – the show is open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily.
- Stay for an extended trip to sail around Mallorca or out to Ibiza for some great nightlife.
Cannes Yachting Festival
10-15 September 2024
Cannes, France
Since its inception in 1977, the Cannes Yachting Festival has brought together some of the world’s most well-known boat builders and yachting enthusiasts at this luxurious location on the French Riviera. The show attracts over 50,000 visitors annually and displays over 700 crafts from 610 exhibitors of 15-160-foot-long boats. This festival showcases the full range of watercraft, including sailing, motor yachts, and mono- and multi-hulls.
This festival strongly focuses on high-end luxury yachts and superyachts, which are presented in the water. You can go aboard and get a feel for these crafts in person.
Highlights
A new sector for motor boats will be unveiled this year at Cannes. The festival also provides a VIP program that provides guided tours, club and superyacht access, as well as car and concierge services throughout the festival.
Tips for visiting
- Check the opening hours so you don’t miss anything. The festival starts at 10:00 a.m. on all days but closes at 7 p.m. on the 10-12th and 14th, 10:00 p.m. on the 13th, and at 6:00 p.m. on the 15th of September.
- Book hotels early or, if arriving by boat, reserve your berth at a local marina now.
Why Attend European Boat Shows?
Europe’s boat shows are some of the best in the world, and it’s no surprise as many of the world’s top boat builders are also found in Europe. These shows allow yachting enthusiasts to come together with builders, dealers, and yacht brokerage firms to network and discover the latest in design and technology. With dozens of exhibitors and hundreds of boats, how else can you get to see so many different yachts in one place?
Each festival is unique and holds its own charm. Some are in luxurious locations, and most offer entertainment and displays that span the watersports industry. They also provide VIP service for elite customers looking to buy the very best.
Visit the Best Boat Shows in Europe
The best boat shows in Europe, like boot Düsseldorf, Palma, and Cannes, attract everyone who’s anyone in the industry, from top builders to yacht sales reps and the best yacht brokerage firms in Europe. If you’re in the market for a boat and Europe is where you’ll do most of your sailing, plan to visit at least a few of the best boat shows in Europe for the opportunity to view the widest range of watercraft up close to help you make your choice.
FAQ
Most large shows in Europe take place between April and October, which coincides with the top sailing season. Check official websites for up-to-date information.
You don’t have to, but you’ll be able to avoid long lines by booking tickets in advance. Some of these boat shows are attended by hundreds of thousands of visitors!
With so many large boats available in one location, boat shows are the perfect opportunity for private yacht viewings and even test drives. It’s best to contact exhibitors in advance to schedule viewing appointments.
