Boot 2026, rising attendance and cautious recovery in order intake

Boot 2026 closes on a rather positive note for the marine industry. The show boasts over 200,000 visitors from more than 110 countries, a slight increase, and exhibitors speak of qualified discussions and business concluded, in a still tense market context.

Slightly higher attendance

The show is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors, nearly a quarter of whom will come from other European countries or markets outside Europe. This share confirms Düsseldorf's role as an international meeting point, beyond the German market alone, and a prospecting tool for brands seeking export contacts.

Visitor satisfaction is also highlighted, with nearly 95% of respondents declaring that they had achieved their objectives and giving a positive assessment of the exhibitor offering. For manufacturers, this type of indicator is important, as it reflects the quality of contacts rather than the sheer volume of visitors.

Marius Betlemann, Director of Operations at Messe Düsseldorf, emphasizes the return of a more active business cycle after several years of sluggish sales. Exhibitors report useful discussions and contracts signed during the show.

A fuller line-up and Düsseldorf premieres

The sailing offer clearly enjoyed renewed interest. 25 class associations were present, and the show management emphasized the presence of a large proportion of the world's sailing boat and yacht players, with the first presentations made in Düsseldorf.

At a time when some new products are being launched more discreetly, grouping them together at the same event creates a space effect, which is useful for both construction sites and distribution networks.

The show also attracted a large number of visitors to the halls devoted to powerboats, engines and accessories. New products and technical developments provided a showcase for an industry that continues to invest, even if the market pace remains erratic.

Charter and destinations, bookings signed during the show

The Destinations and Boatlife hall attracted a public looking for sailing rather than immediate purchase. The show's management emphasized the number of on-site bookings, particularly for sail and motor charters, as well as a marked interest in houseboats.

For marine tourism professionals, this dynamic is a useful indicator, reflecting an appetite that is transformed into action, even when the boat investment is deferred.

Feedback from several projects

Several manufacturers quoted by the show speak of a market that is still difficult, but on the way to stabilization. Princess Yachts emphasized the quality of requests and an encouraging volume of pre-orders. Bavaria Yachts describes a positive mood, with no signs of overheating, and a steady flow of new contacts. Hanse Yachts refers to expectations being met and a slow but perceptible stabilization.

The next edition of boot Düsseldorf is scheduled to run from January 23 to January 31, 2027. For the industry, the 2026 event will have served above all as a barometer, with a slight increase in attendance, more qualified contacts, and manufacturers once again talking about orders, cautiously but with a straight face.

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