The blue innovation dock at boot Düsseldorf 2026 becomes Europe’s central hub for maritime policy, innovation, sustainability and cross-sector collaboration.
The blue innovation dock will be unveiled at boot Düsseldorf from 17 to 25 January 2026 as the leading European meeting point for political leaders, industry experts, innovators and water sports enthusiasts who are shaping the future of the maritime sector.
Organised jointly by boot Düsseldorf and the European Boating Industry, the platform will once again bring high-level political debate and cutting-edge technology to Hall 10. The event highlights the growing strategic value of the sector within Europe’s climate, industrial and tourism agendas.
Key themes and strategic direction for 2026
The 2026 programme builds on last year’s success and will explore the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the water sports industry. Central themes include sustainability, decarbonisation, innovation in marinas and nautical tourism, circular materials and composite recycling, new approaches to design and refitting, digitalisation and AI, as well as high-performance and competitive sailing. The agenda features panel discussions, keynote sessions, interviews and innovation showcases, illustrating how industry, academia, policymakers and emerging changemakers are joining forces to build a sustainable and competitive sector under the #MadeInEurope identity.
The commitment of boot Düsseldorf to innovation is reinforced by its strategic partners and sponsors. Their participation broadens the international reach of the blue innovation dock and amplifies its impact. The main partners for 2026 are the Beneteau Group, Brunswick Corporation and San Lorenzo. Leaders in technology and maritime expertise will support the programme throughout the nine days of the event, showcasing advances in sustainable propulsion, material science, digital systems and marina development. Their involvement contributes to an environment where the transformation of the maritime sector becomes visible, accessible and actionable.
A strong lineup of experts and thought leaders
The upcoming edition will host an exceptional line-up of speakers from European institutions, industry, academia and sport. Confirmed political participants include Members of the European Parliament Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann and Andreas Schwab, as well as senior representatives of the European Commission such as Andreea Staicu, Head of the Tourism Sector, alongside national policymakers. The opening address will be delivered by David Foulkes, CEO of Brunswick Corporation, who will be interviewed live on stage by Marcus Krall.
Additional speakers include Dr. Phil Klaus from the International University of Monaco, Professor Felix Leach from the University of Oxford, Lea Jordan from the travel and hospitality sector and Julia Minici from Afterwind. The programme for the public will feature prominent figures and marine advocates such as Emily Penn, Lukas Haitzmann, Boris Herrmann and André Wirsig. Influential organisations including SailGP and GEOMAR will also participate, bringing storytelling, scientific expertise and environmental commitment to the stage.
Industry vision and long term impact
According to boot Director Petros Michelidakis, the blue innovation dock has become a recognised platform for presentation and networking within the maritime industry. He notes that boot Düsseldorf brings together all the professions necessary for a dynamic maritime economy and a vibrant water sports sector. The event provides a space where European political priorities are debated, visions are presented and technological breakthroughs are highlighted. He expects nine days of intensive knowledge exchange in Hall 10.
EBI President Robert Marx emphasises that the platform has evolved into a strategic space where the sector’s most important discussions take place. He stresses that the cooperation between boot Düsseldorf and the EBI strengthens the link between industry and policymakers and helps guide the European boating sector toward a sustainable and competitive future. This partnership supports the promotion of innovation and ensures that the priorities of businesses, marinas, manufacturers, water sports participants and environmental advocates are properly represented at the European level. By hosting all these stakeholders in a single venue, the event encourages concrete solutions that will influence the boating ecosystem for years to come.
Looking ahead to January 2026
The full programme for the 2026 edition will be released in early December on the official boot website.
boot Düsseldorf is the largest yacht and water sports fair in the world. More than 200,000 visitors from over 100 countries and 1,500 exhibitors fill 220,000 square metres across 17 halls. The show spans the full spectrum of sailing and motorboating, from dinghies and sport boats to superyachts. Popular water sports including diving, surfing, kite surfing, stand up paddling, skimboarding and canoeing are presented with the latest equipment. The event also hosts a rich programme of talks, trend presentations, workshops and hands-on demonstrations, catering to leisure enthusiasts and professionals alike. Marine conservation and sustainable technology will remain a central focus in 2026. Together with the EBI, boot Düsseldorf will once again provide the blue innovation dock as a unique format for dialogue between political, industrial, technological and media voices. The next edition opens from 17 to 25 January 2026.
