The 66th Genoa International Boat Show attracted 138,273 visitors, an increase of 11.3%, as exhibitors reported orders, signed contracts and further commercial opportunities during the six-day event.
Held from 1 to 6 October, the show brought together more than 1,000 boats and exhibitors from 45 countries. Official figures show 215 new products were presented and more than 4,600 sea trials were completed.
The figures were reported against a strong export backdrop. Italy’s boatbuilding sector exported 90% of production in 2025, with export value reaching a record €4.4 billion, up 2.6% year on year. Italy accounted for 21.3% of global exports.
“In a changing market, the most significant factor is the quality of the business generated: supply met demand, contracts were signed and shipyards created new opportunities,” said Piero Formenti, president of Confindustria Nautica.
Tangible opportunities
The inbound delegation programme doubled the number of international buyers and journalists, drawing participants from 35 countries and generating 580 business meetings over two dedicated B2B days. TechTrade Days also brought together more than 400 equipment and component brands.
Marina Stella, general manager of Confindustria Nautica, said the programme created ‘tangible opportunities for our companies to build relationships with overseas markets’, with particular value for small and medium-sized businesses.
The show also introduced the Blue Arena and expanded links between the exhibition, the Palasport Pavilion and the shopping centre.
Its FORUM26 programme covered market forecasts, regulation, taxation, customs, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, electrification, hybrid propulsion, materials and sustainability.
Formenti confirmed that the 67th Genoa International Boat Show will run from 30 September to 5 October 2027, with preparations for the show already underway.
