Charting a course for the future: Interboot focuses on innovation, the next generation, and sustainability

July 10, 2025

  • Demonstrations and hands-on opportunities are available across eight exhibition halls, at the Fair Lake, and at the Interboot Marina
  • Special exhibition on “My First Boat,” plus a sailing simulator and virtual reality sailing training
  • Panel discussion on “Green Waves” featuring Baden-Württemberg’s Transport Minister Winfried Hermann
  • Diving fair InterDive, which takes place in parallel with InterBoot, now in its 13th year

Friedrichshafen – Interboot 2025 (September 24 to 28) is charting a course for the future with innovative offerings, including a high-profile panel discussion on climate-neutral shipping and a special show designed especially for the younger generation of water sports enthusiasts. “Visitors can once again expect a wealth of highlights across eight exhibition halls, at the Fair Lake, and at the Interboot Marina,” promises Project Manager Felix Klarmann. “I’m particularly looking forward to this year’s special show on entry-level boats. Encouraging the next generation to get out on the water is a rising priority for the industry. We aim to rekindle young people’s interest in water sports. The topic of sustainability has also become essential to the fair and will draw distinguished speakers such as Transport Minister Winfried Hermann to our lecture stage this year.” In addition to a variety of hands-on activities, demo cruises at the Interboot Marina, and numerous expert lectures for visitors, leading manufacturers will showcase their latest trends and premieres in Friedrichshafen. The diving trade fair InterDive, held in parallel from September 25 to 28, rounds out the wide-ranging exhibition program. Both events can again be accessed with a single ticket this year. 

Virtual sailing in the simulator and real pump foiling on the Fair Lake

In 2025, the international water sports exhibition will once again focus on participation, hands-on experiences, and having fun. In addition to the popular SUP Test Pool, Skimboarding will also be making a return in Hall A5’s Interboard section. Pioneering technologies will be showcased in Sailing Hall A3. The use of Virtual Reality (VR) and advanced simulation technologies has significantly transformed both maritime training and elite sports. In sailing and motorboat training, VR simulators enable realistic practice of complex maneuvers and procedures without risk. JoJo Wassersportschule is a pioneer in this field and will be represented with a booth in Hall A3 at Interboot, where visitors are invited to experience its VR goggles. Crews such as the German Youth and Women’s Teams at the America’s Cup also use virtual technologies to gain competitive experience. Racing scenarios can be practiced in a simulator environment using authentic control elements and digital wind and wave simulations – safely, in any weather, and more cost-effectively than on the water. If you wish, you can take the helm yourself during the event and experience virtual sailing in Hall A3. 

The action continues in the outdoor area. Kitesurfer and content creator Ben Beholz will showcase his pump and wingfoiling skills on the Fair Lake, leading workshops for those interested in learning how to stay balanced on the board without falling back into the water. 

Something for everyone: Sailing yachts, dinghies, and starter boats

How about a stunning sailing yacht? Or would you prefer a stylish motorboat? There’s something for everyone at Interboot. In Hall B1, the Swiss Boat Builders’ Association is marking its 90th anniversary this year. Each year, “Swiss Day” takes place on the Thursday of the fair and features unique activities, guests, and events. The special exhibition “My First Boat,” sponsored by Float Magazine, has a range of entry-level boats in Hall B2. There are also presentations on the topics of financing, insurance, and moorings. In Hall A3, large sailing boats are displayed next to small, compact dinghies. Ultramarin is represented with the Bente and Bavaria brands, Fallenbach Werft with the Pointer and a-yachts brands. Saffier Yachts will also have its own booth at Interboot for the first time this year. 

Green Waves, Environmental Day, and Sustainability Trail

The Lake Constance fleet is undergoing a sustainability transformation. By 2040, every boat and ship operating on Lake Constance is expected to achieve climate neutrality. To spotlight environmentally friendly shipping, Wirtschaft und Technik GmbH (IWT) is organizing a summer event series entitled “Green Waves” on behalf of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Transport. The goal is to make modern drivetrain technologies, emission-free boats, and sustainable mobility solutions visible and tangible on the water. On Saturday, September 27, 2025, the event series will come to an end at Interboot. Baden-Württemberg’s Transport Minister Winfried Hermann will also participate in a panel discussion at the Travel and Sailing Center in Hall A3. Also on September 27, the International Watersports Association of Lake Constance (IWGB) will hold its Environmental Day at the exhibition grounds in Friedrichshafen. The IWGB carries out extensive educational initiatives with policymakers and authorities in the Lake Constance region. Environmental Day provides an opportunity to learn about the work of the association and to take an active role in protecting the environment. In addition, Interboot will showcase a range of exhibitors on its Sustainability Trail, each offering an in-depth exploration of sustainability and its implementation.

Charter dream destinations, caravan adventures, and expert guidance – all in one place

Whether you’re sailing across the Atlantic or enjoying a leisurely cruise on a motorboat, Hall A3’s maritime travel market provides a wealth of inspiration and concrete options for your next boating vacation. For specific questions, knowledgeable advisors are available at the Charter and Cruise Advisory Service. Experienced trade journalists Michael Amme (sailing) and Juergen Strassburger (motorboats) offer expert firsthand tips. Back again in 2025: The motorhomes and towing vehicles section of Hall B4 is perfect for anyone who values flexibility on the road. 

Interboot Marina draws visitors with demo cruises, a water ski show, and Blue Light Day.

An essential feature of the international water sports fair is the Interboot Marina. It is accessible at regular intervals via the free MesseExpress MX and remains open later than the exhibition grounds each day. This venue hosts the water ski shows, Blue Light Day, DSV Sailing Days, and the “Ladies Only” motorboat training, supported by Pantaenius & Boote Pfister. Interested women can take a motorboat out for a spin on Lake Constance under professional supervision to learn and enhance their boating skills. The motorboat training session lasts approximately 90 minutes and is free of charge for all participants. Together with the German Sailing Association and various yacht clubs from the region, the DSV Sailing Days also offer the opportunity to experience the fascination of sailing live – completely free of charge and at no obligation. School classes are also eligible to register. Further information can be found here: https://www.interboot.com/trade-show-program/exhibiton-areas/interboot-marina

SUP & Grill Tour 2025 – Summer, sun, boards & beats

On the first two weekends of August, it’s time to grab your board and fire up the grill! The floating Interboot Bar will be making stops at three paddle locations on Lake Constance during the SUP & Grill Tour 2025: Langenargen (August 3), Kressbronn (August 9), and Fischbach (August 10). On offer: top beats, free barbecue (including vegetarian options), refreshing ice-cold non-alcoholic drinks, and plenty of good vibes: https://www.interboot.com/trade-show-program/sup-grill.

More info, tickets, and opening hours

Interboot 2025 takes place from September 24 to 28 and is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM each day. On the first day of the fair, enjoy the Wednesday Special (2 for 1). Throughout the week, take advantage of the discounted afternoon ticket available from 3 PM: https://www.interboot.com/visit/opening-hours-tickets.

Interboot on the web: https://www.interboot.com

The 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 the 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 feature the Fair Lake adjacent to the airport as well as halls equipped with hangar doors, can accommodate a wide range of possible uses.

 

 


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