10 of the best boat shows in the UK and Europe

Whether you’re an experienced boatowner, a yacht enthusiast, or simply curious about the marine industry, boat shows offer the perfect opportunity to explore the best that the sector has to offer. From historic harbours to luxurious coastal venues, the UK and Europe host a range of boat shows, featuring everything from elegant sailing yachts and impressive motorboats to the latest in marine technology.

If you’re planning a family day out or looking for your next boat, boat shows combine excitement, innovation, and information. In this guide, we share the best boat shows in the UK and Europe, highlighting what makes each one unique, where they’re located, and why they’re worth visiting.

Nice Boating Tomorrow 2026

Nice, France - 19th to 22nd March 2026

Nice Boating Tomorrow is a new sustainability‑focused boat show on the beautiful French Riviera. Dedicated to the future of boating and eco innovation, it’s set to feature shows both in the water and on land alongside engaging forums and immersive experiences. This is the perfect boat show if you’d like to know more about eco-friendly boating and upcoming green technologies.

International Multihull Show 2026

La Grande Motte, France - 22nd to 26th April 2026

The world’s premier multihull event, the International Multihull Show, celebrates catamarans and trimarans every April in La Grande Motte, France. Established in 2010, this boat show has grown over the years and had an impressive 76 multihulls on display in 2025, including 15 power catamarans.

Palma International Boat Show 2026

Palma de Mallorca, Spain - 29th April to 2nd May 2026

The Palma International Boat Show is a famous Mediterranean nautical event featuring major brands and an impressive collection of the latest boats and marine products. Set in stunning Palma with almost 300 exhibitors and over 300 yachts in attendance, it’s a huge event. 

With a commitment to building a greener yacht industry, this event features exhibitors showcasing electric propulsion, sustainable materials, and eco-conscious design.

Falmouth Classic Regatta 2026

Falmouth, UK - 12th to 14th June 2026

As one of the largest classic sailing events in the UK, the Falmouth Classic Regatta celebrates classic sailing boats with races and maritime heritage displays. Established in 1987, this charming event offers sailors the opportunity to sail on some excellent waters, and spectators the chance to watch boat parades from several great viewpoints.

Plymouth Boat Fest 2026

Plymouth, UK - 20th June 2026

Plymouth Boat Fest is a family‑friendly UK event celebrating boats, marine services, and marine technology. It welcomes exhibitors from across the sector and hosts engaging on-water displays. There’s plenty to enjoy for adults and children alike, from activities and entertainment to a delicious array of food and drink options. It’s a must-visit for boat enthusiasts of all ages.

Cowes Week 2026

Isle of Wight, UK - 1st to 7th August 2026

While not technically a boat show, Cowes Week is one of the world’s largest sailing regattas with daily races, social events, and racing fleets. Between 500 and 600 keelboats take part in different classes across the week, and the event is open to everyone – from amateur sailors to world champions.

Helsinki Boat‑Afloat Show 2026

Helsinki, Finland - 13th to 16th August 2026

Northern Europe’s largest floating boat show, the Helsinki Boat-Afloat Show, features sailboats, powerboats, small craft, fishing displays, marine equipment suppliers, and a range of activities. It’s a fun-packed and informative boat show for enthusiasts. Family-friendly highlights include flyboard and jet ski freestyle shows and a range of street food options from around the world.

Cannes Yachting Festival 2026

Cannes, France - 8th to 13th September 2026

A leading in‑water boat show in the heart of the French Riviera, Cannes Yachting Festival is staged across two iconic harbours, Vieux Port and Port Canto, and is known for premier presentations of sailing and motor yachts. It hosts around 700 boats and 680 exhibitors, and attracts boat lovers, buyers, designers, and marine professionals from across the globe.

Southampton International Boat Show 2026

Southampton, UK - 18th to 27th September 2026

The Southampton International Boat Show is the UK’s largest boating and water sports festival. It features hundreds of exhibitors, boats of all sizes, on‑water experiences, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages.

You can head out on a boat, kayak, paddleboard, or dinghy. Or simply stay on land and enjoy a huge range of performances and activities, from jet ski stunt shows to live music. There’s also a programme of talks from marine experts and inspiring speakers.

Genoa International Boat Show 2026

Genoa, Italy - 1st to 6th October 2026

One of Europe’s major boat shows, the Genoa International Boat Show, attracts exhibitors and visitors from around the world who travel to immerse themselves in the marine industry among thousands of boats and marine products. 

Vessels include yachts, superyachts, sailboats, inflatables, and multihulls, and there’s the opportunity to find out about new technologies, equipment, and electronics.

Why visit a boat show in the UK or Europe?

Visiting a boat show in the UK or Europe offers more than simply looking at boats; it’s a chance to fully immerse yourself in marine life and learn more about the industry.

These events showcase the latest yachts, motorboats, sailing craft, and marine technology alongside everything from hands-on demonstrations and sea trials to expert advice from brokers and designers. It’s the perfect way to get an insider view of the sector.

Boat shows offer a vibrant atmosphere, with family-friendly activities, gourmet food, and opportunities to explore stunning harbours and coastal destinations. For anyone who loves the water, they provide inspiration, education, and the chance to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re seeking your next vessel or want to enjoy some maritime culture, visiting a boat show in the UK or Europe could be the best place to start. 

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