Barcelona Boat Show - 12-16 October 2016

The Barcelona International Boat Show, which takes place from 12-16 October in Port Vell, will bring together the best offerings in the nautical sports and recreational sailing sector in Spain. With an extensive programme of activities and experiences for all attending, it is also a driving force for the nautical sector, focusing this year on networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and start-ups. 

Visitors to the 55th edition of the show, along the quays of España and La Fusta in Port Vell, can enjoy the floating exhibition – featuring boats of 8m+, and the land-based exhibition which includes a wide range of nautical products and services, from electronic appliances, engines, paints, sails, trailers, fishing gear, charter vessels, marinas and inflatables. Some of the leading companies that have already confirmed their participation include Beneteau, CNB-Lagoon, Conade, Fountaine Pajot, Jeanneau, Marina Estrella, Marina Marbella, Metropol Náuticas, Nautic Luis, Sunseeker, Touron, Yamaha and Zodiac.

‘Once again, the event will demonstrate all its potential as the leading trade platform and meeting place for the sports and recreational sailing sector in Spain,' asserted the show's president, Luis Conde. He also highlighted the fact that ‘visitors will have a unique opportunity to learn about the latest new products and innovations, make contact with nautical companies, try out boats out on the water and take part in numerous activities. And all in the privileged setting of Barcelona's Port Vell.'

The Barcelona Boat Show is a founding member of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), organized every year by Fira de Barcelona with the backing and collaboration of ANEN.

In terms of registrations, this year the recreational boat market shows an increase of 3.7% for new boats and 11.5% in the rental market.

‘This season, the growth in registrations has slowed down compared to the last three years, though we are noticing that the change in business models and the creation of new companies in the sector, more geared towards providing services and incorporating new management technologies, is moving forward,' says Carlos Sanlorenzo, General Secretary of the National Association of Nautical Companies (ANEN).  

Networking for start-ups and investors 

One of the new features this year is the provision of dedicated space and support for entrepreneurs and start-ups associated with the nautical sector, with the first Seminar for Nautical Entrepreneurs being held on Thursday 13 October in the Espai del Mar. Entrepreneurs and representatives of innovation and/or technology start-ups will have the opportunity to present their projects to potential investors and companies in the sector. There will also be talks by successful entrepreneurs as well as networking sessions.  

Another new feature, also held in the Espai del Mar, will be a round table on the subject of nautical sports. Organized by the Association of Naval and Ocean Engineers of Spain, the session will involve competition boat designers, crews and other participants involved in nautical competitions. Scheduled for Friday 14 October, the session forms part of the 55th Congress of Naval Engineering and Maritime Industry. The Espai del Mar will also host presentations of regattas, sailing and the marine environment. 

Experience the sea  

With the slogan ‘Experience the Sea', the show aims to be a hub of fun activities and new experiences for sailing fans and those interested in getting involved in this world. According to the show's director, Jordi Freixas, ‘One of our main objectives is to disseminate a maritime culture and demonstrate the countless opportunities available for enjoying it.' 

In the Fun Beach area for example, there will be a trial zone with access to the sea where youngsters and families can enjoy beginners' sessions in dinghy sailing, canoeing, kayaking and paddle surf. Also scheduled is the 4th Barcelona SUP Festival for Stand Up Paddle Surf enthusiasts. Meanwhile, in the Traditional Sailing area, where classic vessels will be on display, there will be workshops and activities of interest to the entire family. 

The Boat Show will also actively promote nautical recreation via inititatives such as ANEN's '#embárcate' program, 'designed to get Spanish people immersed in everything to do with the sea', according to Sanlorenzo.. Another project is the Marina Day, an initiative of the Catalan Association of Marinas and Tourist Ports (ACPET). 

Festive ideas and gastronomy

Many exhibitors will also be hosting activities and parties on their stands, mostly on Friday the 14th, to coincide with The Nautical Night which will feature, for the second year running, 'Swimnight & Kayak' in the port, as well as live music, fashion parades and tastings. 

In addition to the OneOcean Club restaurant, the Nautic Food Plaza (food outlet and chill out area) and the Nautic Village by TheCooluxury (a collection of stands featuring premium products from the worlds of fashion, art, design and gastronomy), the show is scheduled to host the 1st Nautical Gastronomy Show on a catamaran which gourmets can attend by invitation only. Organised by Curt Ediciones, the vessel will host tastings of premium food and drink, with top chefs leading discussions and presentations on culinary trends.  

The Barcelona Boat Show was a founding member of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) organized by Fira de Barcelona with the backing and collaboration of ANEN.

For more information please contact: 

Marta Juvell
Tel: +34 93 233 20 89
Email: mjuvell@firabarcelona.com

*Image credits: Fira de Barcelona