66th Genoa International Boat Show: The Boating Industry Sets a New Course
More than 1,000 boats, 215 new models and exhibitors from 45 countries will shape the 2026 edition of Genoa, with larger yachts, a rapidly expanding multihull segment and a programme focused on technology, sustainability and the future of boating.
From 1 to 6 October, Genoa will once again become a meeting point for the international marine industry as the city hosts the 66th Genoa International Boat Show.
This year's edition brings together more than 1,000 boats, 215 new models and exhibitors from 45 countries across five continents. The in-water exhibition area has also increased by 4%, while the figures reveal a notable shift towards larger yachts.
Occupancy of the Yacht & Superyacht dock has increased, while the average size of the three largest boats in each segment has grown by 14.1% compared with 2025. The multihull market is also gaining ground, with the number of units on display up by 28%.
A stronger high-end presence
One of the most significant additions to the 2026 show is Living Made in Italy, a new area on Quay H developed with the support of the Italian Trade Agency.
Dedicated to yachts over 24 metres, the space will combine displays, lounges and hospitality areas designed to showcase the strength of Italy's high-end boatbuilding sector. Yachts in the 35 to 50-metre range will be among the participants, reflecting the broader move towards larger models at this year's event.
The return of the Boat Show to its October dates has also been welcomed by the market, with the new venue encouraging major players to return to Genoa and bringing larger yachts into the exhibition.
Blue Arena opens boating to a wider audience
The renovated Levante Waterfront and the new Palasport Pavilion will host another important addition to this year's edition: the Blue Arena.
Created with investment from Confindustria Nautica and the Italian Trade Agency, the new space aims to introduce a wider audience to boating, turning curiosity into knowledge, experience and opportunity.
Its programme is divided into five areas: Start Boating, Start-ups & Innovation, Training and Boating Careers, World Sailing and Maritime Military Institutions.
Visitors will be introduced to different aspects of boating and maritime culture, from practical experiences with boats powered by engines up to 25 hp and the D1 boating licence, to foiling, start-ups, maritime careers and the wider opportunities offered by the Blue Economy.
The show is also continuing its focus on younger visitors, with the discounted Under 25 ticket returning for 2026.
International reach
Internationalisation remains central to Genoa's strategy. For 2026, the Italian Trade Agency is doubling its commitment to the show's international visitor programme, targeting both buyers and foreign journalists.
The programme is expected to involve participants from 35 countries. The number of international buyers is increasing from 70 to 180, including not only superyacht buyers but also importers, distributors and dealers. More than 80 international journalists have also been contacted as part of the initiative.
The move reflects the international character of Italy's boating industry. According to Confindustria Nautica President Piero Formenti, the sector generates €8.6 billion in turnover, more than €13 billion in added value and employs almost 170,000 people, with around 90% of production destined for foreign markets.
TechTrade Days and FORUM26
Genoa's business focus extends beyond the boats themselves. On 1 and 2 October, TechTrade Days will bring together more than 400 specialist brands from the marine accessories and components sector.
The B2B programme is designed to connect shipyards, designers, technical departments, procurement managers, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers, highlighting the wider network of expertise and technology behind today's boating industry.
Meanwhile, FORUM26 will address some of the key issues shaping the sector, including sustainability, technological innovation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, the maritime economy, start-ups, training and career opportunities within the Blue Economy.
The programme will include the fifth World Yachting Sustainability Forum, “From AI to Energy Hubs: Building the Future of Sustainable Yachting”, alongside discussions on the Blue Economy and the economic impact of yachting.
Design and innovation
The Design Innovation Award returns for its seventh edition, continuing a programme established in 2020 by Confindustria Nautica and the Genoa International Boat Show to promote design excellence and innovation across the boating sector.
Architect Paolo Brescia will chair this year's international jury. A book documenting the first six editions of the award will also be presented, tracing the evolution of nautical design and innovation through the winning projects.
The 2026 winners will be announced on Friday 2 October during the Design Innovation Award gala on the terrace of the Blue Pavilion.
The programme also extends into culture and publishing, with talks featuring prominent figures from journalism and non-fiction, while the America's Cup will form another part of the show's wider programme.
Beyond the boat show
The 66th Genoa International Boat Show arrives at a moment when the boating industry is evolving across several fronts. Larger yachts, stronger multihull representation, international expansion, new technologies and a growing focus on sustainability and professional skills are all reflected in this year's programme.
From high-end Italian yachtbuilding and superyachts to start-ups, foiling, artificial intelligence and the Blue Economy, Genoa is positioning its 2026 edition as a broader platform for the industry itself, offering a view not only of the boats being built today, but also of the ideas, technologies and people shaping what comes next.
