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Visitor numbers up 11.3%
The 66th Genoa International Boat Show, held from October 1 to 6, 2026, drew 138,273 visitors, compared with 124,248 in 2025. This represents an increase of 11.3 percent.
More than 1,000 boats were showcased by exhibitors from 45 countries. The organizers also announced 215 new models. This figure, however, should be taken with a grain of salt: some Italian publications reported 225 new models. The figure of 215 is the one that appears in several communications related to the organization and in several reports published at the close of the event.
The increase in attendance is a positive indicator for the trade show, but it is not enough to gauge the state of the market. For shipyards and equipment manufacturers, the quality of the leads and their conversion into orders remain far more decisive.
More than 4,600 sea trials
The number of test runs is particularly noteworthy in this regard. More than 4,600 sea trials were conducted during the six days of the show, compared to 4,050 in 2025 and 3,855 in 2024.
Growth has thus exceeded 13% in one year. It benefits directly from the layout of the Genoa Boat Show, which is largely open to the water and allows visitors to move relatively quickly from the static display to the sailing area.
A test drive obviously doesn't guarantee a sale. But for a buyer who is already well into the process, it allows them to compare the boat's handling, engine performance, ergonomics, and noise level under conditions that a boat moored at the dock simply cannot replicate.
International Operations at the Heart of the Business Strategy
Genoa is also seeking to strengthen its role as a trade event. The international mission, organized in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ICE, the Italian agency responsible for the internationalization of businesses, brought together buyers and journalists from 35 countries.
According to the organizers, 580 business meetings took place during the two days dedicated to B2B. At the same time, TechTrade Days brought together more than 400 brands of accessories and components, with a clearly professional target audience: construction sites, engineering firms, industrial buyers, manufacturers, and distributors.
This factor is significant for an Italian industry that is highly dependent on foreign markets. In 2025, Italian marine exports reached 4.4 billion euros, up 2.6%. The Italian marine manufacturing sector generates approximately 90% of its revenue from exports.
Orders were announced, but no amount was disclosed
Confindustria Nautica reports positive feedback from exhibitors, as well as orders and contracts signed during the show. However, these statements should be distinguished from quantified commercial results: no total amount for transactions made in Genoa has been disclosed.
It would therefore be premature to conclude, based solely on attendance at the show, that the Italian recreational boating industry is experiencing a general recovery.
The sector generated 8.72 billion euros in revenue in 2025, up 1.4%. However, this average masks varying circumstances. Exports and the high-end market continue to show strong momentum, while the small recreational boating segments are facing greater challenges.
Genoa will return in late September 2027
The next event has already been scheduled. The 67th edition of the Genoa Boat Show will take place from September 30 to October 5, 2027, confirming its fall date.
