The world's largest indoor boat and watersports exhibition returns to Germany from 23–31 January, with new hall arrangements, an expanded surfing programme and a fully booked diving hall.
More than 1,500 manufacturers, retailers and tourism destinations are expected at boot Düsseldorf 2027 from 23 to 31 January, as the German exhibition prepares to showcase more than 1,000 boats and yachts across 15 halls.
The exhibition has become an important annual meeting point for Ireland's marine leisure industry. As Afloat reported at boot Düsseldorf 2026, Irish companies, including Dún Laoghaire's MGM Boats and Kinsale chartmaker Bobby Nash, were represented, and the Irish Marine Federation elected its new chairman during the exhibition.
The 2026 event also featured several significant launches involving Irish dealerships, including BJ Marine's presentation of the Beneteau First 60 and MGM Boats' new brokerage service. Irish participation in the 2027 exhibition remains unconfirmed.
Irish Presence – Dún Laoghaire-based MGM Boats at a previous boot Düsseldorf exhibition, highlighting the Irish marine trade's connections with the international boat show ahead of its 2027 return. Photo: Messe Düsseldorf
The nine-day event, now in its 58th edition, will bring together the international sailing, motorboating, marine equipment, diving and watersports industries, providing an early indication of market trends for the 2027 boating season.
For Irish sailors, boatowners and marine businesses, the exhibition offers an opportunity to examine new yacht designs, marine technology and equipment from leading international manufacturers.
Sailing Yachts and Motorboats Across Düsseldorf Halls
Sailing yachts will occupy Halls 15 and 16, where organisers say almost all the major international sailing boat manufacturers will be represented. The Sailing Centre will host presentations on international regattas, cruising and life afloat, featuring leading figures from the sport.
Motorboats will be displayed along a revised Motorboat Walk, beginning in Hall 17 and continuing through Halls 1, 3 and 4. Superboats will occupy Hall 5, with superyachts in Hall 6 and brokers and designers in Hall 7a. The revised layout follows the temporary closure of Hall 9 for modernisation. The hall is not expected to reopen for the exhibition until 2029.
Motorboat Showcase – Visitors explore the latest motorboat designs at boot Düsseldorf, where the 2027 exhibition will feature a revised Motorboat Walk across Halls 17, 1, 3 and 4. Photo: Messe Düsseldorf
RIBs, inflatable boats and tenders previously exhibited in Hall 9 will move to Hall 17, while a covered walkway will maintain visitor access between exhibition areas.
Boot director Petros Michelidakis said manufacturers continued to see Düsseldorf as an important commercial platform despite difficult trading conditions. "In economically challenging times, a business driver such as boot is a key factor in revitalising the market," he said.
Organisers expect exhibitors from almost 70 countries.
Marine Technology and Innovation
Halls 10 and 11 will feature marine engines, propulsion systems, equipment, accessories, clothing and refit services. The blue innovation dock in Hall 10 will provide a forum for manufacturers, investors, policymakers, and technology developers to discuss the maritime industry's future.
Organised in cooperation with European Boating Industry, the initiative will focus on emerging technologies and developments affecting the recreational boating sector. The exhibition will also highlight marine conservation through its Ocean Tribute Award, which recognises projects that help protect the marine environment.
Expanded Surfing, Diving and Watersports Attractions
One of the main changes for 2027 will be moving surfing and paddling activities to Hall 12. The hall will feature a 65-metre surf pool, a new two-level skimboarding course, a Surf Academy and an expanded paddling channel winding around an artificial island.
Four international competitions are planned, along with opportunities for visitors to take part in watersports activities.
Hall 13 will accommodate the diving sector, with organisers confirming that exhibition space is already fully booked. Diving equipment manufacturers, retailers, and tourism destinations will be represented, with demonstrations, presentations, and practical sessions.
Diving Attractions – Underwater demonstrations at boot Düsseldorf offer visitors a taste of the sport, with the fully booked diving Hall 13 set to feature equipment, destinations and hands-on activities in 2027. Photo: Messe Düsseldorf
Hall 14 will concentrate on charter holidays, international marinas, houseboats and watersports destinations under the theme Destination & Boat Life.
Tickets and Visitor Information
Boot Düsseldorf 2027 runs from Saturday, 23 January, to Sunday, 31 January.
Standard single-day admission costs €23 online, while members of the free boot.club programme can purchase a two-day ticket for €21. Eligible students and school pupils pay € 16, and children aged 12 and under are admitted free.
Trade visitor tickets cost €28 for one day or €44 for two days, including access to dedicated business lounges.
The full exhibitor database will be available at the end of October. You can find more information and tickets on the official boot Düsseldorf website.
