From Monaco to Miami, Dubai to Antigua: the yacht show 2023 calendar is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. The most popular yacht shows this year will take place worldwide, boasting stunning views, incredible craftsmanship, and countless activities and amenities.
The world’s best yacht events give those in the boating industry the ideal opportunity to network, learn about the latest trends, meet existing and new clients, and showcase their products and services to a highly engaged audience.
Discover below the 10 best boat shows and events that are not to be missed this year.
What are the 10 most popular yacht shows in 2023?
Amongst the 10 most popular yacht shows in 2023 are the Palm Beach International Boat Show, the Monaco Yacht Show, the Miami International Boat Show and the Cannes Yachting Festival. Take a look at the top yacht shows and events to see in 2023, as well as the highlights of this year’s superyacht calendar.
Yacht shows 2023
1 – Miami International Boat Show 2023
15 – 19 February, US
The Miami International Boat Show 2023 is quickly approaching, bringing boat enthusiasts and industry professionals together at the Miami Beach Convention Centre to celebrate over 1000 of the most innovative boats on the market.
The show features more than three million square feet of space and over 1500 exhibitors dedicated to the newest boats, accessories, and services. Boaters can explore hundreds of vessels of all shapes and sizes, including cruisers, sportfishers, trawlers, motor boats, sailing vessels and more.
The Miami International Boat Show 2023 is dedicated to providing the best possible educational opportunities for its attendees. There are also special events for children and families, making the show a great place for the whole family to have fun and learn about the marine lifestyle.
Plan your itinerary with the Miami International Boat Show website.
2- DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2023
1 – 5 March, UAE
The next event in the calendar 2023 is the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS 2023). Hosted in the sparkling Dubai Harbour, the Dubai Yacht Show has been a regular feature in the UAE every March for the past 29 years. By far the Middle East’s largest yacht and lifestyle event, the boat show welcomes over 3000 industry professionals, UHNW clients and general visitors to be part of a vibrant on-land and on-water entertainment program.
The DIBS 2023 yacht show will display more than 150 boats and over 800 yachting companies in the dedicated Superyacht Avenue. The yachting event will feature a variety of high-performance vessels and yachts, both for racing and leisure. Amongst the greatest, those on display will be the iconic Dutch shipyard Feadship, Princess Yachts, Sanlorenzo, and Gulf Craft.
However, it’s not just about the vessels when it comes to DIBS 2023. Every year the superyacht show organisers detail an exciting agenda packed with world-class entertainment, networking opportunities and an opportunity to experience the best of the UAE.
Visitors will also be able to benefit from the knowledgeable experts who will be on hand to explain the different technologies and answer any questions about the boats on display.
The impressive watersports village is also an added bonus, where visitors can try the latest water toys, from kayaks to stand-up paddleboards and hoverboards.
Plan your visit to the Dubai International Yacht Show 2023 on the show’s website.
3 – PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2023
23 – 26 March, US
The Palm Beach International Boat Show is one of the most popular shows globally. The boating event brings together some of the best international names for four days of networking, entertainment and viewings. With its beautiful location in Palm Beach, Florida and extensive range of activities and events, the nautical event promises to be an exciting and memorable experience for everyone involved.
The 2023 yacht show will feature more than $1.2 billion worth of vessels and superyacht lifestyle products, including hundreds of boats ranging from 8-foot RIBs to a vast selection of powerboats, sailboats, fishing boats, and motor boats.
Attendees will have the chance to meet with boat manufacturers, brokers, and distributors from around the world to find the perfect vessel for them. You can also learn about the latest boating technology and marine products, such as fishing equipment, navigational aids, and boating accessories.
With its beautiful beaches and incredible weather, Palm Beach will provide a memorable backdrop for the event.
Plan your visit to the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2023 on the show’s website.
4 – MEDITERRANEAN YACHT SHOW 2023
29 April – 5 May, Greece
Returning once again to the beautiful town of Nafplion, Greece, the Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDY’S) has revealed that it will be hosting its eighth event this spring. Regarded as the world’s largest crewed charter show, attendees can be expected to be treated to a wealth of valuable information and unparalleled insight into the world of Greek charters.
This popular boat show is expected to be as memorable as the boat show in 2022, welcoming charter brokers and boating industry professionals worldwide to witness the impressive line-up of dazzling superyachts as they prepare for a busy summer charter season ahead.
While the emphasis of the 2023 boat show is undoubtedly on the fleet of vessels on display, the social program of the event is equally impressive, with the welcoming and farewell ceremonies presenting a great number of networking opportunities. The annual chef’s competition is certainly one to remember, showcasing the latest trends in superyacht cuisine.
Find out more about the Mediterranean Yacht Show 2023 on the event’s official website.
5 – CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL 2023
12 – 17 September, France
The Cannes Yachting Festival is one of the world’s most prestigious nautical events and the largest in-water Mediterranean yacht shows. Set in the heart of the French Riviera, the Cannes Yachting Festival is a six-day celebration of all things boating. The nautical event regularly attracts more than 50,000 visitors eager to explore the latest boats, tenders, and luxury lifestyles.
The vessels on display in Cannes range from 3 to 50 meters in length, with many prestigious brands offering daily sea trials on board some of the most exciting new launches. Some of the boat builders in Cannes last year included Baglietto, Cantiere Delle Marche (CDM), Gulf Craft, Pearl Yachts, Princess Yachts, Sanlorenzo, Sunreef Yachts and Van der Valk Yachts.
Not to be missed, the yachting festival promises to deliver a wide range of activities, including seminars, competitions, and demonstrations. Visitors can experience the latest trends in boating technology and discover the best in contemporary and vintage boats, giving attendees a chance to learn more about the industry.
Stay up to date with the latest Cannes Yachting Festival 2023 news on the Cannes yacht show website.
6 – Monaco Yacht Show 2023
27 – 30 September 2023, Monaco
The Monaco Yacht Show is undoubtedly the pinnacle of the yacht calendar in 2023. With the world’s largest exhibition of superyachts on display, it’s certainly not hard to see why. Hosted in the iconic Port Hercules, considered the yachting capital of the world, the event regularly attracts industry professionals, world-class superyachts, including the industry’s latest boats, and nautical lifestyle exhibitors.
This exclusive event is set to feature more than 500 boats on display from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Benetti, Sunseeker and Azimut. The models on display are never anything short of impressive and give a prime example of the types of vessels available to buy.
The Monaco Yacht Show 2023 will have something for everyone. Exhibitors include renowned boat designers and manufacturers, as well as marine equipment, supplies, and services. There will also be a wide variety of luxury lifestyle brands to browse and purchase, as well as the latest water sports equipment.
As one of the best boat shows in the world, the show is the perfect place to network with other industry professionals at one of the event’s illustrious Monaco parties.
Based around the VIP Sapphire Experience, visitors with VIP tickets can make use of exclusive facilities throughout the event and relax in convivial settings with unobstructed views of the port. Complete with its own bar and waiting service, the Sapphire lounge is the ideal hub for making new contacts, closing deals and taking in the social scene of the nautical event.
Learn more about the show at the official Monaco Yacht Show website.
7 – FORT LAUDERDALE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2023
25 – 29 October, US
Kicking off the American yacht calendar is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2023 (FLIBS), considered the largest in-water boat show in the world. The show is scheduled to run from 25 to 29 October, offering an action-packed five-day yachting extravaganza.
FLIBS is one of the most prestigious maritime events on the international circuit and is expected to draw up to 100,000 visitors this year. It is a superb opportunity for the marine industry to display its offerings, from the latest fishing boats, superyachts, and other watercraft to marine engines and accessories. It is also a great place to network and benefit from new relationships in the boating community.
The show will also play host to several informative seminars and demonstrations on topics such as the care and maintenance of boats, sailing instruction, and fishing techniques.
This popular boat show promises to deliver an array of activities, such as a fishing tournament, tours of the marina, live music and entertainment, as well as plenty of food and drink.
Head to the show’s website for more information on the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2023.
8 – METSTRADE YACHT SHOW 2023
15 – 17 November, Netherlands
The Marine Equipment Trade Show (METSTRADE 2023) is the largest international business-to-business exhibition for the marine leisure industry, bringing together some of the most prestigious yacht suppliers, shipyards and maritime professionals for three days in November.
Hosted in the vibrant capital of Amsterdam and close to some of the boating industry’s best superyacht suppliers and shipyards, the event will be organised into three pavilions: Superyachts, Marinas and Yards, and Construction Materials.
Every year, show organisers host an engaging agenda to cultivate connection, recognition and innovation in the marine industry. Scheduled 2023 yacht show highlights include the Global Superyacht Forum hosted by the Superyacht Group, the annual Boat Builder Awards, the Young Professionals in Yachting Club, and the DAME Design Award.
To register for your ticket to METSTRADE 2023 as a visitor or exhibitor, head to the official trade show’s website.
9 – Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2023
16 – 19 November, UAE
The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) is the leading maritime and leisure event in the Middle East and North Africa region. In its fifth year, ADIBS is held in Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre’s (ADNEC) marina and at the newly-completed waterfront Marina Hall. The impressive venue is one of the few in the world with the ability to host indoor, outdoor, and nautical events simultaneously.
ADIBS spans three days and provides a unique and exciting opportunity for visitors to experience the very best of the nautical lifestyle. This includes boat shows, vessel displays, live demonstrations, and interactive events across an area over 40,000 square metres in size. It’s also an ideal platform for networking, making contacts, and discussing new business opportunities.
The marine event will feature an array of boats and luxury yachts, including the latest and most luxurious models. Boating enthusiasts can browse and compare models, take a test drive and even purchase their dream boat.
Leading names such as Sunreef Yachts and Falcon Tenders have already been confirmed as exhibitors for the 2023 show, bringing an array of exciting new launches.
Make sure to time your visit to ADIBS with the FI Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which takes place just four days before the popular yacht show.
Stay informed on the official Abu Dhabi International Boat Show website.
10 – ANTIGUA YACHT SHOW 2023
4 – 10 December, Antigua
Boasting perhaps one of the best destinations on the yacht calendar 2023, the Antigua Charter Yacht Show has been a firm favourite of superyacht captains, international charter brokers, and marine vendors since 1971. Located at the Nelson’s Dockyard UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Falmouth Harbour Marina and the Antigua Yacht Club Marina, the industry-only event will celebrate its 62nd anniversary.
Visitors to the show will be treated to various experiences, including more than 100 sail and motor yachts for sale and charter, competitive racing, and social events. The show will also feature a wide selection of maritime equipment, services, and accessories.
Aside from the yachting innovations, the Antigua Boat Show 2023 will also feature many exciting activities, including seminars, demonstrations, and even a chance to participate in a race. There will be several special events and activities for children, including a pirate-themed treasure hunt and a special children’s parade.
Stay updated on the latest yacht calendar 2023 news on the Antigua Yacht Show 2023 website.
Yacht Shows 2023: FAQs
What’s the largest boat show in the world?
The largest boat show in the world is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), held annually in the state of Florida, US. With more than 1,300 boats and exhibitions spanning more than 100 acres, it is easily the world’s largest yacht show. The yacht show 2023 spans five days and typically welcomes more than 100,000 visitors from across the globe. For yachting enthusiasts and yacht service providers, it is without question the show to be at. Relevance Yacht’s team of yacht marketing experts regularly attends the show, taking the opportunity to learn about the latest yacht trends and meet with our clients.
What are the top yacht trends 2023?
Top yacht trends for 2023 include a growth in expedition vessels, a boom in charters and new-build yachts, greener yachting solutions, new technology and emerging markets, and changing demographics, including a younger yachting clientele.
- The growth of expedition vessels is driven by yacht owners and charterers wishing to explore the world’s most remote regions. Younger yachting enthusiasts are particularly keen on exploring off the beaten path, seeking more immersive yachting adventures that require an adventure yacht.
- A boom in charters and new builds, driven by a general increase and interest in the yachting industry. According to Boat International, there were more than 1,000 superyacht projects on the global order books in 2022, a rise of 24.7% compared to previous years. This growth is expected to continue in 2023 and beyond.
- A desire to enjoy an experiential yachting experience with custom and highly unique experiences.
- Greener yachting solutions, including hybrid and electric yachts and sustainable onboard practices. This trend is front-and-centre at the world’s leading yacht shows in 2023, with many boasting dedicated sustainability exhibitions.
- New technology is changing the yachting industry and will be a key yacht trend in 2023. Smart yachts are becoming the norm, increasing efficiency and onboard experiences. The role of AI is increasing in the yachting industry, and VR is also gaining momentum.
- Emerging markets in 2023 will see a shift in the yachting industry, driven by wealth changes and the global UHNW population. While North America and Europe remain the world’s largest yacht consumers, Asia has now overtaken Europe as the second-largest UHNW region, and by 2024 Asia-Pacific will boast almost a quarter of the global population of UHNWIs. Due to this shift in wealth, key yacht industry players are expanding to Asia. You can learn more about the latest UHNW demographics in Relevance’s UHNW whitepaper.
- The Gen Z influence will continue to increase in 2023 as younger clients enter the yachting industry, with the average age of superyacht owners now predicted to be between 35 and 45.
Which yacht show is the most prestigious?
The Monaco Yacht Show is considered the world’s most prestigious boat show, with many pedigree shipyards choosing to debut superyachts at this event. The yacht show boasts the world’s most luxurious superyachts alongside world-class yachting service providers. The show is held in Port Hercules, in the Principality of Monaco, considered the world’s most exclusive destination. Relevance Yacht, which is headquartered in Monaco, attends the show annually.
How can Relevance Yacht help with yacht show 2023 marketing?
Relevance Yacht is a luxury yacht marketing agency that works with the biggest names in the industry. Ready to elevate your marketing strategy ahead of a busy calendar of 2023 yacht shows? Our digital marketing and content experts are here to help you make the most of every opportunity. Get in touch with our team!