Paris Boat Show Returns with a Fresh Approach After Two-Year Hiatus
After a two-year absence, the Paris Boat Show is making a comeback with a revamped format and a new location. Christophe Vieux, a key figure in the event’s organization, shares insights into the motivations behind the changes and what attendees can expect.
A Response to Market Demand
The decision to revive the Paris Boat Show stemmed from the observation that Parisian clients found it challenging to attend regional boat shows. Given the significant influence of the Parisian market on the French nautical industry, organizers felt it was crucial to re-establish a dedicated event in the capital.
“After two years of the Paris Boat Show being stopped, the members of the Federation of Nautical Industries noticed that Parisian customers had difficulty getting to the other shows in the region. However, the Paris region represents a considerable weight in the nautical market in France. It was therefore necessary to recreate a meeting in Paris with these audiences.”
Breaking with Tradition: A New Venue and Schedule
Organizers sought to differentiate the new show from its predecessors by moving away from the traditional Porte de Versailles location and the month of December, which often presented logistical and social challenges. Le Bourget emerged as the most logical alternative to Villepinte.
The Le Bourget site offers several advantages:
- Easy access for boats arriving via special convoy.
- Hall 3 was recently renovated for the Olympic Games.
- Proven track record of attracting visitors, as demonstrated by the aeronautics and leisure vehicle shows.
Furthermore, the show has been shortened to five days to maximize intensity and avoid the lulls often experienced during traditional nine-day events.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity
While acknowledging the potential for slightly lower overall attendance due to the reduced duration, organizers are confident that the new format will attract serious buyers. The emphasis is on creating a focused and efficient environment for business transactions.
“The trend is clearly towards concentration, to favor intensity rather than duration. Of course, the first lessons will come at the end of this edition. It is possible that there will be a little less visitors, especially the general public, who previously benefited from two weekends. On the other hand, the buyer, he will come. He will choose one of these five days, and he will be there. I don’t think this will have an impact on the volume of business done, even if attendance will be closely monitored.”
Thematic Days and Diverse Offerings
The show will feature a wide range of exhibitors, primarily from French shipyards, but also including international participants. A comprehensive program of events and conferences is planned, with each day dedicated to a specific theme:
- Opening day: Spotlight on Finistère.
- Thursday: Innovation-focused conferences.
- Friday: Offshore racing, with a focus on the Vendée Globe and appearances by numerous skippers.
- Weekend: Family-friendly activities centered around French Polynesia, the show’s guest of honor.
- Friday night: Evening events hosted by exhibitors at their stands.
Embracing Emerging Trends: River Navigation
Recognizing the growing popularity of river navigation, the show will feature fluvial boats and specialized rental companies, highlighting the sector’s appeal and potential.
A New Chapter for the Paris Boat Show
Organizers are optimistic about the future of the revamped Paris Boat Show, viewing it as a fresh start rather than a simple revival of the past. The goal is to establish the new format as a long-term fixture, adapting and improving it in the years to come.
“This show is a new product, with a new formula. And even if we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the very first Paris boat show this year, this edition remains a first. The ambition is clear: to establish this new format in the long term, to develop it, and to strengthen it over the years.”
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