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From January 17 to 25, 2026, Boot Düsseldorf will once again become the meeting point for the world's yachting industry. After two sluggish editions due to the market slowdown, the 2026 edition marks a vigorous relaunch, with the halls fully occupied, the massive return of international manufacturers and a refocusing on the sector's major structuring themes: innovation, alternative propulsion, internationalization of the offering and sustainable development.
A massive return of shipyards and distributors
The 2026 edition sees the long-awaited return of numerous shipyards and importers, who had temporarily put their participation on hold. From now on, the exhibition grounds will be reconfigured around 1,000 boats and yachts, spread over sixteen halls. Expected names include Beneteau, Jeanneau, Linssen, Greenline, Princess, Azimut, Sunseeker, Absolute and Sanlorenzo, positioned on enlarged stands, often shared with their distribution networks.
At the heart of this dynamic, mass-produced catamarans and sailboats take advantage of January to launch their new products for the European market. For them, Düsseldorf remains a strategic point of entry, capable of capturing buyers in the planning phase for the following season.
Sector segmentation conducive to B2B exchanges
The thematic organization of the halls provides a clear view of the underlying trends. Halls 1, 4 and 6 are dedicated to powerboats and yachts, from RIBs to superyachts. Halls 10 and 11 are devoted to propulsion, equipment, electronics and onboard technologies. The sailing area (halls 15 and 16) brings together manufacturers, sailing schools, youth training programs and regatta platforms.
The show's geographic diversity is notable, with 1,500 exhibitors from 68 countries. The concentration of major industry players in a single week offers professionals a unique opportunity to monitor, negotiate and benchmark, whether on the construction site, equipment supplier or service side.
The Blue Innovation Dock as a tool for European dialogue
Hall 10 is once again home to the Blue Innovation Dock, a space designed to encourage exchanges between institutions, companies, NGOs and research centers. This conference and dialogue format, piloted by the European Boating Industry, aims to develop common standards for the ecological transition, sustainable propulsion and recycling of composite materials.
Topics for 2026 include the integration of biocomposites in shipbuilding, the compatibility of electric motors with port infrastructures, and circular economy strategies in refit yards.
A stronger offering for niche exhibitors and new markets
Halls 5 and 7a offer specific space for tenders, chase boats and luxury brokerage. Brands such as De Antonio, Frauscher X Porsche and Spirit of the Ocean will be showcasing units designed to accompany superyachts or cater to the high-end charter market.
Hall 3 showcases sport boats, outboard motors and sport fishing equipment. It is a strategic entry point for peripheral markets and specialized distributors. The consolidated presence of groups such as Brunswick, Yamaha and Honda plays a structuring role here.
Focus on training and young practitioners
Boot Düsseldorf will also be focusing on renewing the sailor base. Hall 15 will be dedicated to light sailing, training clubs and educational projects. The aim is to stimulate training and encourage vocations, as well as boost sales of equipment for apprenticeships.
Sailing electronics, navigation simulation and connected water sports will also be featured in the same hall.
Optimism tempered by an uncertain climate for boat shows
The promise of a massive return of exhibitors to Düsseldorf in 2026 nevertheless raises a legitimate question: is this an announcement effect or a genuine reversal of trend? While statements by the show's director refer to constructive discussions with manufacturers, no exhaustive list of confirmed exhibitors has yet been published, as a communication on this subject is scheduled for early November.
At a time when several European trade shows have recorded a significant drop in attendance and âeuro participation, due in particular to rising logistics costs, the concentration of marketing budgets and the development of âeuro digital formats, the relaunch of Düsseldorf will be closely watched. The question remains: will industry players play the game of returning to the show floor at such a resource- and organization-intensive event, or is this a one-off revival designed to reassure the showâ??s institutional and commercial partners?
