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From September 11 to 14, 2025, Newport, Rhode Island, hosted the 54th edition of its international boat show. For yachting professionals, this event is much more than just a showcase: it's a valuable indicator of market trends and a gas pedal of orders.
An early indicator for the 2025-2026 trading season
With over 350 boats on display and an expanded exhibition area, the Newport show is a starting point for the annual objectives of boat builders and equipment manufacturers. Several European exhibitors test-drive the American market before the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
The quality of contacts, initial purchase intentions and press coverage are all indicators that brands analyze to adjust production and sales deployment.
NFNP: visibility and positioning leverage for 2026 products
The Newport For New Products (NFNP) program provides invaluable access to the North American market. For brands, the aim is not just to sell, but to position a model, gather feedback and test prices. The 2025 edition listed 18 new boats and 14 pieces of equipment.
The system functions like a commercial test bench: from electrically-powered units to fittings, on-board electronics and technical furniture, visitors' reactions serve as a qualitative and marketing gauge.
Logistics and distribution: the dockside display case as a network tool
For distributors and networks, Newport remains a highlight. The presence of American importers, dealers and distributors enables shipyards to forge new agreements or strengthen existing cooperations. Visibility on the pontoons is complemented by business meetings organized alongside the show.
Some European brands use Newport as a pre-launch tool, to optimize logistics at Florida shows, or to anticipate homologation needs.
Changing customer expectations: towards more technical segmentation
The Newport audience remains predominantly North American, but with a high proportion of experienced boaters. Requests received by exhibitors in 2025 show a growing demand for modular equipment, alternative engines and customized options.
For manufacturers, this implies a move upmarket in technical proposals, as well as flexibility in production to meet demand for customized or adapted configurations.
Training courses, workshops, tests: useful content for prescribers
The show featured an increasingly structured educational component, with sessions run by IYRS, ASOS and Freedom Boat Club. These practical and technical training courses are attended by yachtsmen, as well as professionals undergoing retraining or continuing education.
This segment represents an opportunity for equipment manufacturers, who can showcase their products in real-life situations and gather qualified feedback.
