Grand Pavois La Rochelle closed its 2026 edition with 59,000 visitors, matching attendance in 2025. The in-water show hosted 600 brands from 50 countries and displayed 500 boats, including 250 afloat.
Organiser Grand Pavois Organisation said visitor patterns varied by day and category, but the audience included more younger people. Two new areas, Start Boating and Boat Trip Experience, were introduced to explain routes into boating, offer sea trips and connect prospective participants with industry professionals.
“We have seen a genuine rejuvenation of our audience, with more younger generations attending, which was clearly one of our objectives,” said Alain Pochon, president of Grand Pavois Organisation. “We know how important it is to attract new boaters and first-time buyers for the entire boating industry.”
Broadening participation
Pochon reported particular interest and purchasing activity in small motorboats, a category that represents most boat registrations in France and Europe. He said their suitability for day trips, family leisure, fishing and watersports made them relevant to efforts to broaden participation and ownership.
The organiser also identified continued demand for 10- to 12-metre racer-cruiser sailing yachts, multihulls and boats designed for long-distance cruising. Pochon said sales and commercial activity were recorded across several sectors despite economic uncertainty and the prospect of France’s presidential election encouraging delayed purchasing decisions.
The 54th edition included the four Pen Duick yachts associated with French sailor Eric Tabarly, visiting sailors and industry representatives, and a delegation from Qinhuangdao, China.
The programme also featured EDF’s sixth Sustainable Maritime Activities round table and the seventh Nautical Innovation Awards, held under the patronage of photographer, diver and marine biologist Laurent Ballesta.
“This 54th edition has showcased a dynamic and entrepreneurial boating industry that is determined to continue opening its doors to new audiences,” said Pochon.
Grand Pavois La Rochelle will return to Port des Minimes from 21 to 26 September 2027.
