Strong Sales, Global Energy and Record International Reach Mark a Breakout boot Düsseldorf 2026
“After the challenging past few years, our exhibitors are back on track,” said Marius Berlemann, COO of Messe Düsseldorf. “boot 2026 once again proved itself as the international beacon and driving force of the maritime industry. The deals are made here in Düsseldorf.”
International reach, real buyers, real business
With more than 200,000 visitors from over 110 countries, boot Düsseldorf recorded a modest but significant increase in attendance — with international participation standing out as the defining feature. Nearly 25% of visitors travelled from outside Germany, many from other European markets and overseas, reinforcing boot’s position as the world’s most influential water sports and boating trade fair.
Crucially, visitor quality matched the numbers. Almost 95% of attendees reported achieving their objectives, underlining the fair’s reputation as a place where decisions are made, not just explored. The high proportion of trade visitors further cemented boot Düsseldorf’s role as the industry’s commercial nerve centre.
Sailing, powerboats and premieres lead the charge
Interest in sailing yachts and boats rose noticeably in 2026, with 25 class associations represented and nearly every major global brand present. According to Petros Michelidakis, Director of boot Düsseldorf, the sailing halls were exceptionally strong.
“We were excellently positioned in the sailing boat and yacht sector this year,” Michelidakis said. “Almost all global players were present with boat premieres, alongside innovative new manufacturers launching models here in Düsseldorf for the first time.”
Motorboats across all sizes and categories also drew sustained attention, supported by a strong showing of engines, accessories, and technical innovations. Across the show, boat premieres, new propulsion technologies and refined onboard systems illustrated an industry investing again in product development and differentiation.
Destinations, charter and lifestyle resonate
Beyond boats, visitors flocked to the Destinations & Boatlife Hall, where charter, holiday and cruising concepts struck a chord. From houseboats to sailing and motor yacht charters, many visitors moved from inspiration to booking — often directly at the stands.
“The diverse holiday regions whet the appetite for time on the water,” Michelidakis noted. “Many visitors made concrete bookings during the show.”
Water sports such as paddling, surfing and foiling also remained high on the agenda, highlighting boot’s broad appeal across experience levels and disciplines.
Diving, conservation and community
The diving halls once again proved a major draw, combining cutting-edge equipment, immersive presentations, and packed audiences at the Dive Centre and diving tower. The Dive Award, now firmly international in reach, added further profile to the sector.
Environmental engagement was equally prominent. The ‘love your ocean’ initiative — in cooperation with the German Ocean Foundation — attracted strong interest, alongside association stands and the presentation of the Ocean Tribute Award, now in its eighth year. The 2026 award went to Spain’s One Ocean Planet Foundation, recognising its contribution to marine conservation.
Sustainability discussions found a dedicated home at the blue innovation dock (bid) in Hall 10, organised with European Boating Industry (EBI). The forum hosted high-level exchanges between policymakers, researchers and industry leaders, outlining practical pathways toward a more sustainable and competitive maritime economy.
More than a trade show
“What defines boot is not just the products,” Michelidakis reflected. “It’s an experience space, a dialogue platform and a community meeting place.”
That ethos was particularly visible in initiatives such as ‘boot for school’, where thousands of schoolchildren explored ocean literacy through the Maritime Classroom in cooperation with the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum — while also trying sailing, paddling, surfing and diving firsthand.
Throughout the nine days, the atmosphere remained open, energetic and distinctly optimistic — perfectly aligned with the show’s long-standing motto: We love water.
Global spotlight and industry endorsement
boot Düsseldorf 2026 attracted 1,810 journalists and content creators from 49 countries, ensuring global coverage across print, digital and broadcast platforms. Nearly 1,500 manufacturers, dealers and destinations from 68 nations presented their products and ideas, reaffirming the event’s unmatched scale.
Industry feedback was overwhelmingly positive:
Henning Mittelmann, President of the German Maritime Industry Association (VMWD), described boot as “a perfect global marketplace” and a strong start to the 2026 financial year.
Beneteau Group highlighted the exceptional quality of international buyers and confirmed strong performance across both power and sail brands.
Bavaria Yachts reported a clear upward trend, strong customer engagement and renewed confidence.
HanseYachts AG noted stabilising market conditions and met expectations despite ongoing challenges.
Saxdor Yachts, Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, NAVAN, Cressi, and Bukh Bremen all reported high-quality leads, concrete deals and strong international interest.
A catalyst, once again
boot Düsseldorf 2026 didn’t just reflect a recovering market — it helped drive it. As Berlemann put it, the show departs as “a powerful catalyst, international meeting place and emotional highlight.”
The next edition of boot Düsseldorf will take place from 23–31 January 2027. If 2026 is any guide, the industry will arrive not cautious — but ready.