Day of celebration
World Boating Day returns on 23 May 2026, positioned as the Global Open Day redefining how the world sees boating.
03 November 2025
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World Boating Day, the global open day inviting the public behind the scenes of the boating industry, will return on Saturday 23 May 2026, uniting shipyards, marinas, design studios, manufacturers and destinations in a coordinated worldwide celebration of life on the water.
Organised by the Superyacht Life Foundation, it aims to demystify boating and invite newcomers to experience it firsthand through events like boat shows, factory tours, and on-water activities.
Following the remarkable success of the 2025 edition, which featured over 100 events across 18 countries and reached 21 million people, the 2026 edition is set to be the most ambitious yet.
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The focus for 2026 will be on transforming how the industry connects with the public and how the public experiences the world of boating.
Why It Matters. World Boating Day is a powerful platform to:
Unite the industry under one global initiative; Showcase the people, craftsmanship, innovation and stories that power the world of boating; Build visibility and media value, amplifying the industry’s voice on a global stage; Attract new audiences and future talent, creating pathways into maritime careers.
What to Expect in 2026
With participation expected to expand across more countries and even more events, World Boating Day 2026 will spotlight the industry’s most critical priorities and exciting opportunities.
This year’s edition will also deepen its reach by actively engaging Industry-focused educational institutions and museums alongside industry partners, to broaden public understanding and inspire new audiences.
New for the upcoming edition, dedicated local hubs in key regions will collaborate with participating companies to support the planning, promotion and delivery of their event campaigns.
Industry Perspectives
“What happens behind the scenes of our world is far more human and inspiring than most people realise,” says Dilan Saraç, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation.
“World Boating Day is our chance to open the doors, invite people in and share the sense of community, innovation and unique culture that keeps us all so passionate about what we do.”
“World Boating Day has become an essential platform for us,” says Stefano de Vivo, President of SYL and Executive Chairman of WOSA, a participating shipyard.
“Not only are we showcasing our products but also building credibility, meeting the next generation of talent and sharing our world with a global audience.”
A Global Invitation: Be Part of it – Host an Event
World Boating Day invites companies, shipyards, marinas, destinations, design studios and suppliers to take part in this global celebration.
Participation offers a unique opportunity to host an event of your own and: Position your brand as an innovator and thought leader; Attract top talent by showcasing real career pathways; Strengthen visibility and credibility with global audiences — all in a single day.
Read the 2025 report here here.
Participation is open to all. To register your interest or learn more about hosting an event during World Boating Day 2026, visit www.worldboatingday.com or contact Meri Kajaia at meri@worldboatingday.com
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