2021 Boat Show Calendar
By David Hancock
2021 Boat Show Calendar
By David Hancock
You never know how much you have missed something until it is taken away. That statement certainly applies to boat shows, which have mostly not happened at all since the very beginning of last year.
Shows provide an excellent opportunity to catch up with the latest in what is happening with boats, get hands-on with equipment and obtain helpful advice. In addition, most events now have an increasing focus on a good day out for the family, and they provide an excellent social occasion to catch up with friends.
Here's a list of currently scheduled headline events from around the world. All will be subject to local conditions this year, so please check that they are running before finalizing your plans to attend.
September
HISWA In-Water Boat Show 1-5 September, Lelystad, Netherlands
HISWA is mainland Northern Europe's biggest in-water boat show. Visitors can see boats of all shapes and sizes, discover the latest watersports innovations, and experience lifestyle products and experiences.
Yachting Festival Cannes 7-12 September, Cannes, France
Cannes is Europe's top in-water boat show and the world's recognized best show for large sailing boats ranging from 10m-45m. However, the big news story for fans of powered boating is that there will also be around 450 motor yachts and boats on display in the Vieux Port. You'll also find more than 140 units to showcase new products.
Southampton International Boat Show 10-19 September 2021, UK
With Europe's largest purpose-built marina, the Southampton Boat Show will feature an unparalleled range of 600 new sailing and powerboats alongside over 450 marine brands on show. For the family, there will be a wide range of on-the-water experiences to try, live demonstrations, and speaker events. In addition, a new show layout will provide dedicated zoned areas for smaller craft and plenty of places to enjoy refreshments or entertainment.
Newport International Boat Show, 16-19 September, Rhode Island, USA
NIBS is one of the USA's largest and most prestigious boat shows set in stunning coastal scenery with adjacent boutiques and world-class restaurants. The event showcases motorboats and sailboats with an extensive array of marine products, services, and accessories, with seminars and in-water boating courses.
Genoa Boat Show 16-21 September, Genoa, Italy
The Genoa Boat Show (or Salone Nautica as it is now known) is the largest event on the Mediterranean, and the showcase for the very best the Made In Italy brand offers, welcoming both industry professionals and boating enthusiasts.
Monaco Yacht Show 22-25 September, Monaco
There isn't a more expensive show on the calendar, but those who attend experience four days to soak up the festive and glamorous atmosphere of the Principality of Monaco. Its amphitheater-style harbor offers a unique experience to explore high-end super yachting and luxury brands.
Interboot 18-26 September, Friedrichshafen, Germany
Interboot represents the scope of the marine industry, from motorized inflatable dinghies to sports boats of all categories to ocean-going luxury yachts. Events cover travel and charter, in-water trials, water sports activities, and equipment for the active family.
IBEX - 28 - 30 September, Tampa, Florida USA
IBEX is the must-attend trade-only marine industry event in the USA, showcasing North America's leading technical boat-building suppliers and a unique forum where the marine industry can share ideas.
October
United States Powerboat Show 7-10 October, Annapolis, Maryland, USA
Located in the historic seaport of Annapolis, boaters from all over the country travel to view new products from the major powerboat manufacturers. You can explore a variety of boats across Bass Boats, Bowriders, Centre Consoles, Cruiser, Deck Boats, purchase boating supplies, and evaluate the latest marine electronics, fishing gear, clothing, and accessories.
Auckland On-Water Boat Show 7-10 October. Auckland, New Zealand
Set in the heart of the City of Sails with a new format and venue, seeing the show take place in The Cloud and the Viaduct Harbour Marina. New Zealand's biggest boat show showcases more than 200 domestic and international marine businesses, including dozens of vessel manufacturers and boat brokers.
Perfectly timed to lead into the summer boating season, Auckland Boat Show is the only boating expo in New Zealand where visitors can experience such a wide range of vessels on and off the water.
Salón Náutico Barcelona 12-17 October, Barcelona, Spain
In a city with a long-standing maritime tradition, Salon Nautico, located in the exceptional venue of Marina Port Vell, the event has over 290 direct exhibitors and 670 boats on display with the opportunity for professional and leisure visitors to explore new developments across all interests.
Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 13-16 October, UAE
The Abu Dhabi International boat show is a growing event for this Emirate, catering to all marine professionals and the whole family seeking a great day to enjoy all aspects of marine leisure and water sports.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 27-31 October 2021, Florida, USA
Claimed to be "The Greatest Boat show on the Seven Seas", Fort Lauderdale certainly has a global reputation and exhibits a vast array of the industry's latest boats of all sizes, worldwide debuts, and an unprecedented display of marine products to enhance the nautical lifestyle. From boat builders to exotic cars and luxury brands, the show has something for everyone.
Le Mille Sabords Second Hand Boat Show 29 October-1 November, Arzon, France
This show focuses on pre-owned boats and claims to be Europe's leading nautical show to exhibit and sell your boat or invest in a purchase with confidence. The show will comprise somewhere between 700-1000 boats on display from 500 private and professional exhibitors. Around 98,000 visitors are expected.
November
METSTRADE - 16-18 November, Amsterdam
The METSTRADE Show is the world's largest B2B trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems. Access is free via registration only to qualifying people working in the marine industry, although the public can purchase an admission ticket. The event showcases the industry's most innovative products and developments and hosts the prestigious DAME design awards. Expect the 2021 edition to be cut down due to COVID constraints but still impressive and with new hybrid features, including a TV channel on the show's website.
December
Nautic Paris Boat Show 4-12 December, Paris, France
With over 825 exhibitors, 1000 boats and craft, and a show spanning nine days, the Nautic show offers something for everyone and is ideal for checking out new boats or equipment to invest in for the forthcoming season.
Antigua Yacht Show 4-9 December. Antigua
Situated in the unique locations of Nelson's Dockyard, Falmouth Harbour, and the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, the Antigua Charter Yacht Show showcases between 50 to 70 superyachts and boats to charter and key players from the yachting industry in the Caribbean. The event is a mainstay in the calendar for professionals in the superyacht and brokerage industries.
