2026 Boat Show Guide: Where Luxury Meets the Water

Posted January 13 2026



Luxury yachts docked in Monaco Harbor during an international boat show, showcasing superyachts, marina views, and coastal scenery — featured by MHG Insurance for global yacht and marine insurance insights.

The Boat Shows You Can’t Skip in 2026

Whether you work in yachting, dream about yachting, or simply love wandering docks filled with floating masterpieces, boat show season is your version of holiday magic. But with so many shows happening around the world, it can be hard to know which ones are worth visiting and which ones deserve space on your company’s exhibition calendar. Let’s consider the shows you cannot afford to miss in 2026, and why.

In this article, we will break down some of the biggest and brightest shows around the globe and what makes each one truly shine.

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS)

October 28th - November 1st, 2026

If you can attend only one show, FLIBS is the one. Slated as the world’s largest in-water boat show, it takes over Fort Lauderdale in late October with superyachts, sportfishers, tenders, toys, and every marine innovation you could imagine. It is a high-energy mix of serious buyers, yacht crew, industry professionals, and thousands of curious attendees. FLIBS is a fantastic choice for exhibitors seeking global visibility, yacht dealers looking to make more sales, captains and crew hoping to advance their careers, and visitors who want an up-close look at the latest designs and technology.

https://www.flibs.com/en/home.html

Monaco Yacht Show

September 23rd - September 26th, 2026

If FLIBS is the powerhouse, Monaco is the runway. This September show is where the superyacht world goes glam. It is all about premium experiences, elegant events, and showcasing the newest or most innovative luxury yachts on the market. Monaco attracts serious buyers and decision makers, so if your business supports large yacht operations, this show is a must. As a visitor, you have the opportunity to soak up the craftsmanship, meet with top shipyards, and get a feel for upcoming design trends.

https://www.monacoyachtshow.com/en

Antigua Charter Yacht Show

December 4th - December 9th, 2026 (Dates are still tentative)

Looking for something a little more relaxed and Caribbean-infused? The Antigua Charter Yacht Show brings a totally different vibe. This December event focuses primarily on charter vessels and the charter broker community. It is a great show for anyone in the charter sector, vendors of the latest boat toys, or those curious about what makes a yacht charter ready for peak season. Think warm weather, beautiful marinas, friendly networking, and plenty of time to tour boats without the pressure or crowds of larger shows.

https://www.antiguayachtshow.com/

Cannes Yachting Festival

September 8th – September 13th, 2026

Cannes is the perfect blend of upscale and approachable. Held every September along the glamorous French Riviera, the show highlights both motor and sailing yachts and tends to attract a stylish mix of European buyers and boating enthusiasts. Cannes is known for being very demo-friendly, thanks to its easy access to the marina, so exhibitors who want clients to experience a vessel on the water often love this show. Visitors enjoy two show areas, beautiful scenery, and a lineup of boats ranging from small luxury tenders to impressive superyachts.

https://www.cannesyachtingfestival.com/en-gb

Miami International Boat Show

February 11th – February 15th, 2026

Taking place in February, the Miami Boat Show takes place across four different locations: the Miami Beach Convention Center,, Collins Avenue, IGY Yacht Haven Grande and Pride Park. Among the various locations, you are sure to find a yacht or boating accessory (or two) that you just can’t live without.

https://www.miamiboatshow.com/en/home.html

Palm Beach International Boat Show

March 25th – March 29th, 2026

Palm Beach might not be as massive as FLIBS, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm and quality. This springtime show attracts a strong mix of luxury yacht buyers, family boaters, and marine service companies. Palm Beach is popular because it is less hectic than FLIBS while still attracting high-value clients. Many exhibitors appreciate the slower pace and the focus on meaningful conversations.

https://www.pbboatshow.com/en/home.html

Other Notable Boat Shows

Boot Düsseldorf (Germany)

January 17th - January 25th, 2026

This is the world’s largest indoor boat show, which is fitting since the show is in January. The focus for this show is on innovation, water sports, diving, and new marine tech. The Surf Sports hall offers attendees the opportunity to try out the watersports on offer: surfing, wakeboarding, pump foiling, paddleboarding, and more.

Source: Messe Düsseldorf. “boot Düsseldorf.” 2024. https://www.boot.com

Palma International Boat Show

April 29th - May 2nd, 2026

This show in Mallorca kicks off the yachting season in the Mediterranean. Known for being more low-key and chill, it’s a significant networking opportunity for crew and industry professionals. It’s often where you will see the new builds, and it has a heavy emphasis on superyachts and sailing vessels.

https://palmainternationalboatshow.com/

Newport Charter Yacht Show

June 22th - June 25th, 2026

The Newport Charter Yacht Show is a trade-only show. This means it’s 100% focused on brokers and crew. There are exclusive yacht tours, crew competitions (including chefs and tablescapes), and crew seminars. This is a great opportunity to catch up or meet more people directly in the industry.

https://www.newportchartershow.com/

Dubai International Boat Show

April 8th - April 12, 2026

Dubai never does anything halfway, and its boat show is no exception. With a focus on innovation, growing markets, and the luxury lifestyle, this show is ideal for companies exploring new opportunities in the Middle East.

https://www.boatshowdubai.com/

Singapore Yachting Festival

April 23th - April 26th, 2026

As yachting continues to grow in Asia, Singapore’s event is quickly becoming a key international stop. It is a friendly and accessible show that introduces attendees to both established brands and emerging regional players.

https://singaporeyachtingfestival.com/

So Which Boat Shows Are Worth It?

If you want energy, buyers, and global exposure, FLIBS is your top pick. If you want the most elegant yacht event in the world, Monaco is unmatched. If you want something warm, friendly, and charter-focused, Antigua is the perfect fit. Cannes is ideal for European exposure and on-water testing. Palm Beach is relaxed but high-value. And if you are eyeing emerging markets, Dubai and Singapore are additions worth considering to add to your list.

No matter which event you choose, boat shows remain one of the best ways to stay connected, stay informed, and stay inspired in the marine world.

If you choose to add a boat show to your 2026 agenda, be sure to reach out to us. Not only would we love to catch up with you at the show, but we can also make sure your insurance covers you while you travel. Keep in touch with MHG Insurance via our website: www.mhginsurance.com