The Genoa International Boat Show took place for the 66th time in 2026. The six-day event was organised by Confindustria Nautica, the Italian boat industry association. The show covered all segments, from small boats to superyachts. Boatbuilding, equipment and components were also represented. A total of 4,600 test sailings took place during the event. Manufacturers showcased 215 new products. Exhibitors reported strong business activity, with shipyards signing contracts and securing orders.
A return to the traditional date
The trade fair returned to its traditional slot in early October in 2026. From 2021 to 2025, it had taken place at the end of September. The change of dates was intended to create some breathing space from the packed calendar of boat shows in Cannes and Monaco. Piero Formenti, President of Confindustria Nautica, has already confirmed the dates for 2027. The 67th edition will take place in Genoa from 30 September to 5 October 2027. Formenti emphasised that the quality of the business generated was the most important factor. Supply and demand had aligned, and shipyards had created new opportunities.
Strengthening our international focus
Marina Stella, Managing Director of Confindustria Nautica, highlighted internationalisation as a strategic driver. The programme for international delegations doubled the number of buyers and journalists from 35 countries. With the support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Trade Agency, 580 business meetings took place over two B2B days.
Programme of events and new formats
The event comprised 90 academic forums and institutional debates. The Forum26 programme was held under the patronage of the European Commission. It addressed topics such as market development and competitiveness. The Boating Economic Forecast provided industry data, trends and forecasts. Regulatory issues included new anti-money laundering rules, taxation and customs, as well as cyber security in the maritime sector. Other key areas included artificial intelligence, electrification and hybrid propulsion systems. The World Yachting Sustainability Forum and the European Sustainable Boating Roundtable focused on sustainability. TechTrade seminars explored the application of new technologies in boatbuilding.
TechTrade Days for suppliers
The TechTrade Days took place for the second time. They brought together over 400 specialist brands specialising in equipment and components. The programme was aimed at shipyards, designers, technical departments, purchasing managers, manufacturers, distribution partners and suppliers. Discussions centred on design and production processes, sustainability, materials and collaboration between shipyards and suppliers. Other topics included the economic role of yachting, start-ups and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises, coastal tourism and maritime infrastructure.
New projects and links to the city
Formenti described the new projects as a success. The Blue Arena has proved its worth. The integration of the exhibition centre, the Palasport pavilion and the shopping centre has created new links with the city and with younger target groups. ‘Living Made in Italy’ was a great success. Confindustria Nautica intends to further develop the format and strengthen the synergies between boatbuilding, design and other sectors of Italian manufacturing. Preparations for the 2027 edition have already begun. The revenue from paid parking, amounting to 25,000 euros, will go to the charities Porto dei Piccoli and Music for Peace.
Italy’s export strength
In 2025, the Italian boatbuilding industry achieved an export share of 90 per cent. The value of exports rose by 2.6 per cent to 4.4 billion euros. Italy accounted for 21.3 per cent of global exports. International activity was particularly strong in the superyacht, inflatable boat, equipment and components segments. These figures underline the importance of the Genoa International Boat Show as a trading platform for the Italian boatbuilding industry.
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology