Grand Pavois La Rochelle 2025: Key Highlights

A Hub for Nautical Enthusiasts and Industry Showcase

Established in 1973, the renowned nautical exhibition will celebrate its 53rd edition, maintaining its position as a leading in-water boat show worldwide. The event anticipates hosting nearly 700 boats, including 300 in the water. Over 70,000 visitors are expected over six days, providing a crucial opportunity for the French and European nautical sectors to gauge the trends for 2026. This autumn gathering aims to reflect the French and European nautical industry, featuring 800 international brands and serving as a key economic indicator for the industry’s health.

Key Takeaway: The event will serve as a significant economic indicator for nautical professionals, offering insights into the blue economy and the maritime world for 2025/2026.

Fort Boyard: Guest of Honor

Fort Boyard, a jewel of heritage, proudly represents the identity of the Charente-Maritime region, both nationally and internationally. Conceived by Louis XIV, advanced by Napoleon I, and completed under Napoleon III, it has hosted cinema legends and challenged participants on the “Fort Boyard” TV show. Facing the relentless forces of the sea, the fort is undergoing a preservation project led by the Department of Charente-Maritime in partnership with the Heritage Foundation. As the guest of honor, the event aims to mobilize support for the restoration of Fort Boyard.

Key Takeaway: For every ticket sold, €1 will be donated to the Heritage Foundation to support the restoration of Fort Boyard.

Eco-Navigation & Sustainable Innovations

The event emphasizes Eco-Navigation & Sustainable Innovations, hosting over 50 companies and startups dedicated to this theme. The partnership aims to showcase solutions for decarbonizing the maritime sector. The dedicated space will feature products both on land and in the water, including electric and hybrid boats, charging stations, electric propulsion systems, eco-friendly equipment, reconditioning shipyards, electric and hybrid conversion options, and more.

Key Takeaway: A roundtable discussion will focus on electric propulsion and bio-sourced materials, featuring Roland Jourdain as the patron.

Diving and Water Sports at Grand Pavois Beach

The Grand Pavois Beach will host diving and water sports activities. While activities like wing foiling, wind foiling, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding will be highlighted, this year’s focus is on diving.

Activities include freediving and scuba diving initiations, underwater discovery trails, meetings with divers and adventurers, virtual reality experiences, and equipment displays. The goal is to promote these activities, attracting new enthusiasts in a fun and collaborative environment. Introductory sessions and supervised trials in pools and at sea will be available with the support of exhibiting brands and partners, including the French Sailing Federation.

Key Takeaway: Diving takes center stage at Grand Pavois Beach in 2025, with equipment, trials, supervised initiations, meetings, films, and VR experiences.

Themed Areas for Every Passion

The event aims to be the ultimate destination for enthusiasts, offering themed areas to cater to diverse interests: Boats afloat, boats on land, Multihulls, Equipment, Services & Tourism, Eco-navigation & Sustainable Innovations, Fishing, Event Boats, Boutique & Art & Deco Hall, Guest of Honor, Rental & Cruise, Heritage & Know-how. The event uniquely integrates a beach into its exhibition with the Grand Pavois Beach.

Key Takeaway: Members of the French Sailing Federation can enter the show for free upon presentation of their license. Online ticketing is available to avoid queues.

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