boot Düsseldorf has closed its doors with a recorded 200,000 visitors from more than 110 countries, a slight increase in visitor numbers.
There was a particular increase in international visitors with around a quarter travelling to the show from other European countries and overseas.
Almost 1,500 manufacturers, dealers and destinations from 68 nations presented their products and services.
And 95% of visitors were enthusiastic about what the exhibitors had to offer and stated that they had achieved their objectives while visiting.
Interest in sailing boat offerings at the trade fair rose significantly, with 25 class associations attending the show.
We were able to attract innovative new manufacturers, with many boats being presented for the first time here in Düsseldorf.
Petros Michelidakis
“We were excellently positioned in the sailing boat and yacht sector this year,” said show director Petros Michelidakis.
“Almost all the global players were on board with their boat premieres. In addition, we were able to attract innovative new manufacturers, with many boats being presented for the first time here in Düsseldorf.”
Show highlights included the holiday and charter section with visitors inspired by a wide range of houseboats and motorboat and sailing boat charters and boot’s sustainability forum, the blue innovation dock.
More than a product show
Held in in cooperation with the European Boating Industry (EBI), the blue innovation dock featured discussions on the future of a sustainable, innovative and competitive maritime economy.
“We water sports enthusiasts love water and want to protect it. That’s why marine conservation projects are particularly well received here,” added Petros Michelidakis.
“The unmistakable boot spirit also makes the trade fair much more than a product show – it is an experience space, a dialogue platform and a community meeting place all at once.”
Electrifying mood
In addition, the ‘boot for school’ program was also fully booked, with schoolchildren beingtaught about the sea and water in a ‘Maritime Classroom’.
Held in association with the Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum, the event also enabled the children to try their hand at paddling, sailing, surfing and diving.
“Throughout the entire duration of the trade fair, there was an electrifying mood and a special atmosphere in the exhibition halls: open, inspiring and filled with genuine enthusiasm for the element of water – perfectly in keeping with the trade fair motto We love water,” concluded Petros Michelidakis.
The next boot will take place from 23 to 31 January 2027.
