Thinking about your 2026 yachting calendar? The world’s leading yacht shows offer more than glossy hulls and glamorous parties—they’re your best chance to compare builders side by side, arrange sea trials, meet designers and crew, and lock in refits or charters for the season ahead. Here’s a curated circuit of the most notable shows across the year, with typical timing, what each does best, and who will get the most value from attending. Always do check official sites for exact 2026 dates and exhibitor lists.
Winter to Early Spring
– Boot Düsseldorf (Germany, mid–late January)
Europe’s largest indoor boat show, spread across multiple halls with everything from tenders to superyacht concepts. Ideal for kitting out a refit or scouting tech—stabilizers, electronics, tenders, toys, and sustainability solutions are all front and center. Expect deep dives with engineers and lots of seminars in a comfortable, weather‑proof setting.
Best for: Owners planning upgrades, new buyers comparing segments, captains seeking equipment.
– Miami International Boat Show (USA, mid February)
A massive, multi‑venue event showcasing motoryachts, center consoles, and luxe lifestyle brands—plus an energetic atmosphere. Convenient for sea trials in warm water, and great for North American buyers looking for immediate availability.
Best for: Prospective buyers who want on‑water demos and a broad spectrum of new models.
– Dubai International Boat Show (UAE, late February–early March)
A showcase for large yachts and regional innovation, with strong participation from Middle Eastern marinas, shipyards, and luxury partners. You’ll see serious superyacht hardware alongside sport boats and high‑performance craft.
Best for: Superyacht buyers, Middle East‑based owners, and anyone exploring Gulf cruising.
– Palm Beach International Boat Show (USA, late March)
An elegant, walkable show known for quality listings, both brokerage and new build, with plenty of 100 ft+ yachts. The vibe is more relaxed than Miami, great for thoughtful conversations and viewings.
Best for: Serious shoppers who want focused yacht tours and brokerage opportunities.
– Singapore Yachting Festival (Singapore, April)
Southeast Asia’s key stage for yachts, charters, and marina developments. Expect regional cruising intel (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia) and a growing fleet of large yachts.
Best for: Buyers exploring Asian cruising grounds, charterers, regional industry networking.
Late Spring to Early Summer
– Palma International Boat Show (Spain, late April–early May)
The Mediterranean’s season opener with an exceptional spread of sailing yachts and a strong refit yard presence. The “yachting services” footprint makes it pragmatic for maintenance planning.
Best for: Med‑based owners, sailing enthusiasts, refit planners.
– Venice Boat Show (Italy, late May–June)
Hosted in the historic Arsenale, this is part maritime expo, part cultural showcase. Expect design‑forward European builders, eco‑tech, and a spectacular setting that elevates every visit.
Best for: Design lovers, eco‑conscious buyers, fans of Italian craftsmanship.
Late Summer to Autumn
– Cannes Yachting Festival (France, early September)
Europe’s biggest in‑water show across Vieux Port and Port Canto, featuring world premieres from 30–50 m plus a deep bench of dayboats, tenders, and chase boats. It’s the best place to compare many new models in one week before the Med winds down.
Best for: New‑build shoppers, tender upgrades, sea trials in settled weather.
– Southampton International Boat Show (UK, mid September)
The UK’s flagship show with a broad spectrum of power and sail, plus robust gear, training, and safety exhibits. Great for hands‑on demos in practical British fashion.
Best for: Families, first‑time buyers, equipment hunters.
– Genoa International Boat Show (Italy, mid–late September)
A cornerstone of European yachting with Italian builders in full force. If you’re considering a semi‑custom Italian motoryacht, Genoa’s where conversations move forward.
Best for: Italian brand aficionados, semi‑custom projects, equipment sourcing.
– Monaco Yacht Show (Monaco, late September)
The pinnacle superyacht showcase. Expect 50 m+ flagships, cutting‑edge tenders and toys, interiors, helis, submarines, and sustainable tech. Meetings here set the tone for high‑end new builds and refits for years.
Best for: Superyacht principals, family offices, designers, project managers.
– Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show — FLIBS (USA, late October–early November)
The world’s largest in‑water boat show by footprint, spanning multiple marinas and categories—from 20‑ft center consoles to megayachts and everything between. North America’s best single stop for comprehensive comparisons and year‑end deals.
Best for: Buyers at any size range, charter planning for the Caribbean season, equipment and toys.
Early Winter
– Antigua Charter Yacht Show (Antigua, early December)
A benchmark Caribbean charter showcase featuring crewed yachts and sample menus, with brokers assessing vessels ahead of peak season. More industry‑focused, but invaluable if you’re serious about chartering.
Best for: Charter brokers and experienced charterers planning the winter season.
How to Get the Most from 2026 Shows
- Book early. Hotels near venues sell out months ahead—especially Cannes, Monaco, and FLIBS.
- Schedule appointments. Popular yachts require timed viewings; ask for back‑to‑back slots in the same marina.
- Prioritize sea trials. Bring your short list and target models at shows with on‑water demos (Miami, Cannes).
- Bring your team. A captain, surveyor, or designer can spot details you’ll miss.
- Compare like‑for‑like. Create a simple rubric: hull form, range, noise/vibration, service network, resale.
- Explore sustainability. Many shows now highlight hybrid propulsion, alternative fuels, and circular materials.
- Follow up fast. Post‑show momentum helps secure build slots, options, and delivery windows.
Plan wisely, and the 2026 yacht show circuit will be more than a tour—it might be your smartest route to the right yacht, the right refit, and unforgettable cruising seasons ahead.
