On 3 June 2021 the Palma International Boat Show began four busy days of commercial activity. The exciting thing about this? It was a key turning point in the reactivation of in-person boat shows since the pandemic. More than 16,000 people visited over the four days in a carefully orchestrated approach which ensured the COVID-19 capacity protocols and safety regulations were adhered to at all times. This careful planning paid off, with many exhibitors reporting having made sales and having had a successful show.

With Palma International Boat Show having paved the way, there are a number of in-person boat shows scheduled for the remainder of the year which we have detailed below. Of course, in these uncertain times there may always be changes and cancellations, so it is extremely important to keep up to date with the latest notices on the hosts’ websites.

Cannes Yachting Festival: 7 – 12 September 2021

After being cancelled last year, the Cannes Yachting Festival is due to run this year from 7 – 12 September. Founded in 1977, the festival showcases almost 600 boats, including motor yachts, superyachts, catamarans, tenders and sailing yachts.

The show takes place in two of the city’s ports, the Vieux Port (where motorboats are displayed) and Port Pierre Canto (where the sailing yachts and the brokerage sector are displayed). The two sites are linked by regular sea and bus shuttle services departing every 15 minutes – visitors simply need to present their show tickets to access these free services.

Genoa International Boat Show: 16 – 21 Sept 2021

As one of the world’s premier boat shows, the Genoa International Boat Show welcomes industry professionals and boating enthusiasts alike to over 200,000 square metres of display area on land and sea.

Held annually in the capital of Liguria in Italy. The largest show in the Mediterranean offers visitors the chance to see and trial new yachts as well as participate in a host of exciting activities.

Monaco Yacht Show: 22 – 25 September 2021

After its cancellation in 2020, The Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) is set to return in style September this year to celebrate its 30th Anniversary. MYS is the world’s leading superyacht show with the exhibition of superyachts available for purchase or charter.

Visitors can meet up with leading industry experts and hand-picked luxury manufacturers to discuss their next yacht project or explore current and future yachting trends. A unique and tailor-made visit experience into superyachting.

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: 27 – 31 Oct 2021

The largest in-water boat show in the world, Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show takes place this year from 27 – 31 October. The 62nd annual show in Florida, known as the “Yachting Capital of the World”, exhibits an impressive array of the industry’s latest boats and yachts of all sizes, worldwide debuts, plus a medley of marine products and accessories to enhance the nautical lifestyle. From yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts, this show has something for everyone!

The Superyacht Forum Amsterdam: 16 – 18 November 2021

The Superyacht Forum, hosted by METSTRADE in the RAI Amsterdam, is due to take place from 16 – 18 November 2021. Aiming to host a safe and successful in-person event but recognising there may still be challenges with international travel from some countries this November, the event will be boosted with a digital package from RAI Studios that will include a comprehensive online METSTRADE Connect programme with awards ceremonies, pitches, panel discussions and networking options. With over 1,100 exhibitors already signed up, preparations are well underway.

The Superyacht Forum 2021 will provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity for stakeholders to come together, meet face to face, reflect on the lessons learned throughout the pandemic, review supply chains and explore the innovations that will shape the future of the ever-evolving superyacht market.