Boot Düsseldorf is to go ahead as planned the German organiser has confirmed today despite some exhibitors cancelling their participation.
The organiser stated today that boot Düsseldorf will take place from 22 to 30 January 2022 with Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener saying: "We have a responsibility towards our exhibitors".
He said he had decided to hold boot 2022 as planned after consultations with the exhibiting branches and consistent implementation of the current Covid Protection Ordinance of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.
The confirmation comes as Danish manufacturer X-Yachts indicated it will not participate.
It is one of a number of well-known shipyards, especially in the sailing boat segment, that have dropped out over the past few weeks.
German magazine Yacht reports the entire Hanseyachts group with Hanse, Dehler, Moody, Fjord and Sealine are not attending. Y Yachts / Michael Schmidt Yachtbau and Oyster have also decided not to come to Düsseldorf.
According to YACHT information, numerous leading brands from France and Italy will also stay away. These include the Beneteau Group, the largest single exhibitor at the fair (Lagoon, Excess, Beneteau, Jeanneau, Prestige etc.) and the second-largest manufacturer, Fountaine Pajot / Dufour. Solaris, Grand Soleil, Pardo, Italia Yachts and Nautor Swan will also be missing.
The organisers say only visitors who comply with the vaccinated or recovered regulation may enter the fairgrounds during boot. In addition, wearing a particle filtering half or medical mask is compulsory in all halls. The latest air exchange regulators also ensure a regular supply of fresh air in the exhibition halls.
Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener: "Messe Düsseldorf has a responsibility towards both the exhibitors and the large water sports community to hold boot 2022. Since we already updated our access regulations a fortnight ago with regard to the vaccinated or recovered regulations, we are fully on track with boot 2022 even under the new regulations in the current Covid Protection Ordinance. With our tried and tested hygiene concept 'PROTaction', we will offer all participants a safe trade fair. The approval from the water sports industry for boot 2022 is good. We will be able to put on another boot in 2022 to kick off the new season."