July 02, 2026
- Special exhibition “My First Boat” to be expanded even further
- New additions to the fair: E-Boat Area, Refit Center, and a canoe competition
- Standing wave, test rides, and live shows in the exhibition halls, at the Interboot Marina, and on the Fair Lake
Friedrichshafen – With an expanded supporting program for those just getting started in water sports, a wide range of hands-on activities, and a strong focus on sustainable mobility, Interboot is providing fresh impetus for the water sports industry once again this year. From September 23 to 27, visitors can explore the latest trends, innovative technologies, and a wide range of modern leisure activities on and around the water across eight exhibition halls, at the Fair Lake, and at the Interboot Marina. From September 24 to 27, the international diving exhibition InterDive will once again take place alongside Interboot and can be visited with the same admission ticket. “We want to inspire visitors to discover activities on and under the water while demonstrating that getting started is easier than many might expect. Interboot stands for inspiration, community, and active experiences. With new interactive formats, modern boats, and opportunities for personal exchange, we are creating a platform that appeals both to experienced water sports enthusiasts and newcomers,” says Project Manager Felix Klarmann.
Making boating more accessible and sustainable
A key focus of this year’s Interboot is the special exhibition “My First Boat,” which is presented in cooperation with float magazine. Building on its successful debut last year, the expanded exhibition is designed specifically for visitors looking to take their first steps into the world of water sports. Sailboats and motorboats will be on display in Hall B3, accompanied by practical information on obtaining financing, insurance, boating licenses, and access to berths. Expert presentations and one-to-one advice from industry specialists are intended to remove barriers and make getting started in boating as straightforward as possible. Returning this year is Jens Böckmann, better known as “Dr. Beginner” from Yachtverstand, who will lead guided tours of the boats on display throughout the show and be available to answer visitors’ questions.
With the new E-Boat Area, Interboot is also placing a strong emphasis on sustainability in water sports. In Hall B2, exhibitors will showcase innovative electric boats alongside the latest developments in alternative propulsion systems and low-emission mobility. Visitors will gain a concise overview of environmentally friendly technologies and forward-looking solutions shaping the future of the industry.
Refit Center and a canoe competition
Hall A4 also looks firmly to the future, with an increased focus on refit projects and the sustainable modernization of existing boats. At the new Refit Center, exhibitors will demonstrate practical techniques for refurbishing and maintaining boats, covering everything from polishing and repairs to restoring teak decks. The supporting program will be complemented by workshops and expert advice on boat care, value retention, and sustainable use of resources. In addition, an international canoe competition will be held in Hall A4 for the first time, in which participants from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland will develop and build their own canoes powered by cordless drills. The teams will then test their designs and compete against each other on the Fair Lake. By combining technical expertise, support for young talent, and fun on the water, Interboot offers an innovative showcase of creativity and engineering.
Hands-on activities in the halls, on the Fair Lake, and at the Interboot Marina
Action, live entertainment, and the latest trend sports will once again take center stage at this year’s international water sports exhibition. In Funsport Hall A5, the popular standing wave will return, with the Skimhomies creating a vibrant summer surfing atmosphere with exciting skimboarding demonstrations and activities. Visitors can also look forward to a varied program on the Fair Lake, featuring demonstrations by DLRG rescue dogs and thrilling JetSurf demonstrations. The experience continues at the Interboot Marina, where visitors can enjoy test rides, take part in hands-on activities, and experience a wide range of water sports firsthand, including the DSV Days of Sailing.
Industry diversity and proven classics
In Hall B1, the Swiss Boatbuilders’ Association will once again be represented and invite visitors to the traditional “Swiss Day” on Thursday, September 24. In Hall A3, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of sailing, visit a maritime travel marketplace, and take advantage of charter and cruise consultancy services. Motorhomes and tow vehicles will once again have their own exhibition area in Hall B4, where the popular trailer driver training sessions, organized in cooperation with Lucid Motors, will also return. On the Friday and Saturday of the exhibition, visitors will be able to enjoy screenings of Ocean Film Tour Volume 12, while Hall B5 will be home to InterDive, which is dedicated entirely to diving.
Further information & opening hours
Interboot 2026 takes place from September 23 to 27 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday until 5 p.m. During the week, visitors can purchase a discounted afternoon ticket starting from 3 p.m.; on Sunday afternoon, a discounted “Last Chance Ticket” will be available from 2 p.m. Parking is free.
Interboot homepage: www.interboot.de
Interboot on Instagram: www.instagram.com/interboot.friedrichshafen
Interboot on Facebook: www.facebook.de/interboot
Press contact:
Mirja Raff, Deputy Head of Communications, Deputy Press Spokesperson
Tel.: +49 7541 708-318
E-mail: mirja.raff@messe-fn.de
About Interboot
Every year in September, Interboot serves as the central platform for the industry in the DACH region, with a focus on the latest trends. Numerous exhibiting companies present their latest innovations in regard to sailboats, motorboats, and recreational water sports. There is also a wide range of products and accessories available for purchase. The community gathers at the international water sports exhibition to share ideas and insights. In addition to forward-looking topics such as sustainability, alternative forms of propulsion, and e-mobility, Interboot also comprehensively showcases the travel and charter sector. The offerings are complemented by informative lectures, hands-on seminars, and a wide range of supporting activities. Additional key features include the Fair Lake and the Interboot Marina. Boats can be taken for a spin and trend sports equipment can be tried out at both locations. No other water sports show provides such a unique blend of exhibition space and opportunities to actively try things out.
About Messe Friedrichshafen
Messe Friedrichshafen GmbH is one of Germany’s leading trade fair companies and is located at the scenic meeting point of four countries along the shores of Lake Constance. Founded in 1950 to bolster the region’s economy, it has made a name for itself worldwide as an organizer and marketer of leisure and trade exhibitions. Its extensive portfolio includes congresses, corporate and sporting events, television productions, and live concerts. Each year, Messe Friedrichshafen attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and thousands of exhibiting companies from more than 100 countries to Lake Constance. With a total of 87,500 m² of exhibition space, the venue features twelve exhibition halls, two multifunctional foyers, and two outdoor areas in the inner courtyard measuring 15,500 m². Additionally, the Static Display area spans 20,000 m² and provides exceptional opportunities for engaging and dynamic trade fair experiences. The exhibition grounds, which are compact in design and include the Fair Lake adjacent to the airport as well as halls equipped with hangar doors, can accommodate a wide range of possible uses.
Note to Editors: Characters (with spaces): 8341
