Everything You Need to Know About The Upcoming Boat Show Season
As the yachting world picks up pace and shifts toward a more innovative, future-facing outlook, the appetite for ownership and chartering remains strong. BOATPro data confirms that 2025 is shaping up to be a buoyant year, with 298 yachts sold globally in the first seven months alone - a notable increase on the same period last year. From freshly minted builds to expedition vessels and refitted classics, large-scale leisure at sea is far from waning.
At the same time, the boat show circuit is back in full swing. These shows are more than industry events. They are where deals are made, trends are set, and the future of yachting is unveiled.
The Monaco Yacht Show, for example, will host Breakthrough, the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell superyacht. At 118 metres, it's not just a technical marvel but also one of the largest yachts ever built in the Netherlands - and the crown jewel of this year’s show. Such spectacles speak to a sector in transition, embracing alternative energy and ambitious design.
Below is our curated calendar of the upcoming shows that matter..
Cannes Yachting Festival
9–14 September | Cannes, France
Best airport: Cannes–Mandelieu (CEQ)
Spanning both Vieux Port and Port Canto, this is where the European yachting season truly kicks off. Expect over 55,000 attendees and a fleet that ranges from sleek RIBs to fully-crewed superyachts under 500 GT. New launches dominate Vieux Port, while pre-owned yachts and sailing vessels anchor the Port Canto side.
Genoa International Boat Show
18–23 September | Genoa, Italy
Best airport: Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA)
The 65th edition of Salone Nautico will continue its legacy as Italy’s premier show for vessels under 24 metres. With over 100 new products unveiled in 2024, this year promises even more innovation. A favourite among Italian builders and buyers, it’s a must for lovers of Mediterranean design and performance.
Southampton International Boat Show
19–28 September | Southampton, UK
Best airport: Southampton (SOU)
One of Europe’s best consumer-facing shows, Southampton offers everything from live demos to watersports trials and tech showcases. It's particularly popular with new boat owners and British shipyards, but a growing number of international exhibitors are setting their sights on this accessible, hands-on platform.
Monaco Yacht Show
24–27 September | Port Hercules, Monaco
Best airports: Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE), Cannes–Mandelieu (CEQ)
The pinnacle. MYS 2025 is poised to be the most important show on this year’s calendar. Over 125 superyachts and 600 global brands will converge in Port Hercules, drawing a crowd of 30,000. Among the headliners is Energy - a €199M marvel by Espen Øino and François Zuretti, featuring a sea-level gym, glass elevator, beach club and spa, all within an immense 2,885GT volume. Expect a sensory overload - and deal-making at the highest level.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS)
29 October–2 November | Fort Lauderdale, USA
Best airport: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International (FLL)
FLIBS is the largest in-water boat show on earth, hosting seven marinas, six miles of floating docks, and over $4 billion in yachts and marine tech. With expanded VIP offerings and a focus on American builders, this is where yachting meets entertainment.
For UHNWIs, brokers, and family offices alike, attending these events is not only a matter of business - but something of a necessary ritual. But as anyone who’s travelled commercially to Cannes or Fort Lauderdale during peak season will tell you, the glamour tends to stop at the gate. Delays, crowds, and logistical headaches are at odds with the seamlessness expected at this level.
Whether you’re attending to acquire, advise, or simply absorb, don’t let the journey undermine the destination. With Victor, you fly on your terms directly into the heart of the world’s most exclusive ports of call. For more information contact info@flyvictor.com