b oot Düsseldorf 2026 closed its doors on Sunday after nine intense days, confirming its role once again as the world’s leading meeting point for the global water sports and boating industry. With a noticeably improved sales climate, strong international participation and a vibrant atmosphere across the exhibition halls, the show sent a clear signal of renewed confidence in the market.
According to Marius Berlemann, COO of Messe Düsseldorf, exhibitors reported very good discussions and concrete business deals, marking a welcome shift after several challenging years. The high share of international and trade visitors further reinforced boot’s position as the industry’s central marketplace and driving force, where commercial momentum is generated.
This year’s edition welcomed more than 200,000 visitors from over 110 countries, recording a slight increase compared to 2025. Particularly striking was the international profile of the audience, with around one quarter of visitors travelling from other European countries and overseas. Visitor satisfaction reached almost 95 per cent, with the vast majority stating that they had achieved their objectives during their visit.
The sailing and yacht sector was particularly strong in 2026. As Director Petros Michelidakis noted, nearly all major global players were present with significant premieres, while innovative newcomers also chose Düsseldorf for first-time presentations. Motorboats across all segments, engines and marine accessories attracted similarly strong interest, with numerous world, European and German premieres underlining the industry’s innovative strength.
Beyond boats, water sports such as surfing, paddling and diving enjoyed high popularity, as did the holiday and charter offerings in the Destinations & Boatlife Hall, where many visitors were inspired to plan and book their next time on the water. The diving halls once again drew large crowds, with the Dive Centre, live demonstrations and the internationally recognised Dive Award among the key highlights.
Sustainability remained firmly on the agenda. The love your ocean initiative, the ocean tribute award – presented this year to the One Ocean Planet Foundation from Spain – and the blue innovation dock (bid) in Hall 10 emphasized boot’s commitment to marine protection, innovation and a sustainable maritime future. The bid forum once again served as a platform for dialogue between industry, politics and research at an international level.
boot Düsseldorf 2026 also attracted strong global media attention, with 1,810 journalists and content creators from 49 countries reporting from the show. In total, nearly 1,500 exhibitors from 68 nations showcased their products, services and destinations.
As the industry looks ahead, the overall assessment from exhibitors and international industry representatives points toward gradual stabilization and cautious optimism. The next boot Düsseldorf is scheduled to take place from 23 to 31 January 2027, with expectations already running high.
