Boat shows and regattas are where the boating world comes together — and where many Making Friends Tour walkthroughs take place. This page covers the boating events we follow, what to expect at boat shows and regattas, and how to plan a visit. Dates change every year, so always confirm details with the organisers.
Why go to boating events?
Nowhere else can you step aboard dozens of boats in one day, compare layouts side by side and talk to builders, owners and experts. Regattas add the spectacle: hundreds of sails on the water and a festival atmosphere on shore. And of course, they are excellent places to meet people who share your interest — the very idea behind Making Friends Tour.
Boat shows
boot Düsseldorf
Held every January, boot Düsseldorf is one of the largest indoor boat and water sports shows in the world. Exhibition halls cover everything from dinghies and canoes to large motor and sailing yachts, plus diving, surfing and travel. It's a great place to start if you are thinking about buying or chartering.
Regional and in-water shows
Alongside the major fairs, smaller regional shows and in-water events take place across Germany and Europe, often in spring and late summer. In-water shows let you see boats afloat — and sometimes take a short test trip — which tells you far more about handling than a hall can.
Owner meet-ups and brand days
Owner associations and dealers regularly host open days and meet-ups. They are less crowded than big shows and ideal for in-depth conversations with people who own the boat you are curious about.
Regattas and sailing weeks
- Kieler Woche (Kiel Week) — held every June in Kiel, one of the world's largest sailing events, combining international racing with a huge summer festival.
- Travemünder Woche — a traditional sailing week on the Baltic coast near Lübeck, usually in July.
- Hanse Sail Rostock — a maritime festival each August famous for its gathering of tall ships and traditional vessels.
Regattas are great to watch from shore, from a spectator boat or — if you have the skills — from the race course itself. Many sailing clubs welcome crew for local club races, which is a brilliant way to learn.
How to get the most from a boat show
- Make a shortlist. Check the exhibitor list in advance and plan a route through the halls.
- Go early or on a weekday. Queues for popular boats are shorter and exhibitors have more time to talk.
- Bring questions. Ask about running costs, maintenance access and what owners would change — our maintenance guide will help you know what to look for.
- Wear easy shoes. You'll be asked to remove them before boarding many boats.
- Think about use, not just looks. Picture the boat on the waters you plan to visit; our destination guide can help.
Tip: a guided walkthrough makes a big show far less overwhelming. A host explains the boat, answers questions and introduces you to others in the group.
Staying up to date
Boating news moves with the seasons: new models are launched in autumn and winter show season, regattas fill the summer, and spring is all about getting boats back in the water. Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page for the events we plan to attend, new articles on the Making Friends Tour blog and walkthrough announcements.