In October, Barcelona once again becomes a magnet for everyone passionate about the sea and yachts. From October 8 to 12, the city will host the 62nd International Boat Show, which promises to impress even the most seasoned guests. This year, organizers are focusing on scale, variety, and high-quality service.
This year, around two hundred companies and nearly five hundred vessels will gather at the show, with over a hundred displayed directly on the water. Special emphasis is placed on large yachts—their share among the exhibits has grown significantly. For the first time, the renowned Barcelona marina joins the exhibition venues, allowing even more impressive vessels to be showcased and expanding the route for visitors. To ensure comfort, an electric shuttle boat will run between the piers so everyone can explore all the latest offerings at a relaxed pace.
Among the participants are leading global shipyards and brands such as Brunswick, Beneteau, Absolute, Azimut, as well as new names just entering the Spanish market. For the first time in Barcelona, the world premiere of the 31-meter Horizon FD100 yacht will take place—a long-anticipated event for professionals and collectors. Spanish and Italian manufacturers will also present their latest designs, with large yachts (from 16 to 30 meters) making up nearly a quarter of all exhibits.
The organizers have not forgotten those who appreciate not only maritime technology but also fine cuisine. This year, visitors can enjoy a new 2,500-square-meter gastronomic cluster, Village. Here, guests will be able to relax and sample top dishes from chef Rafa Zafra, who has prepared a special menu featuring seafood delicacies. For connoisseurs—tastings, signature appetizers, and an open tapas bar await.
The professional program also promises to be eventful. From October 8 to 11, the Drassanes building will host dozens of meetings, round tables, and presentations focused on innovation, ecology, and the development of the maritime economy. Experts from Spain, Morocco, and other countries, as well as representatives of leading companies and ports, are expected to attend. Key topics include new technologies, sustainable development, and business opportunities.
Organizers note that this year’s show will mark the beginning of a new format and enhanced international status for the event. In the coming years, there are plans to attract even more major industry players and turn Barcelona into the main hub for Europe’s yachting industry.
Against this backdrop, the recreational boating market in Spain is facing some challenges: in the first eight months of the year, just over four thousand new boats were registered, 5% fewer than the previous year. Nevertheless, interest in yachting and maritime leisure remains consistently high, and the exhibition in Barcelona reaffirms its role as the industry’s key event.
