Genoa Boat Show 2026: a record-breaking edition seen from the Waterfront, and the 2027 dates
The 66th Genoa International Boat Show closed on 6 October with 138,273 visitors, 11.3% more than in 2025. Confindustria Nautica called it the largest boat show in the world. We experienced it from a privileged spot: two of our homes are inside the Waterfront di Levante, overlooking the canals where this year's exhibition boats were moored. Here is what changed, what we saw and what to know if you are thinking of coming in 2027.
The numbers behind a record edition
Over 1,000 boats from 45 countries and more than 200 new models
4,600 sea trials
580 meetings with international buyers from 35 countries
1,287 accredited journalists
Catamarans and multihulls up 28%
An edition of firsts
October for the first time
This year the Show ran from 1 to 6 October, to avoid overlapping with the Cannes and Monaco shows, and the organisers have confirmed the same timing for 2027. It was opened by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and a dedicated stamp was issued for the occasion, part of the series celebrating Made in Italy excellence.
The Show on the water
For the first time, there was no large marquee at the former Fiera. Exhibitors set up outdoors, along the new canals and quays of the Waterfront designed by Renzo Piano. The result is a Show that feels less like a trade fair and more like an exhibition on the sea.
The free Blue Arena at the Palasport
The Waterfront's Palasport hosted the Blue Arena, a free-entry area with foiling, Italian Navy simulators, sailing and maritime careers. It reflects the idea of a "boat show for everyone", as Mayor Silvia Salis put it: a show designed for families and small-boat owners too, not just industry professionals.
Living Made in Italy
On Quay H, a new area dedicated to Italian superyachts between 35 and 50 metres made its debut.
The Show from our homes
During the Show we hosted both visitors who came specifically for the event and people working at the Show. A few days before the opening we had to turn down several last-minute requests.
Guests staying in the Waterfront homes had an advantage that matters a lot during the Show: the car stayed in the residence's private garage, with no parking queues and no permits to request. You stepped out of the door and within a few minutes' walk you were among the boats. In the evening you walked back home without hunting for a taxi in the crowd.
In front of Waterfront Porto Antico House the boats were moored right below the windows. One of our guests put it this way, looking out over the quays: "We're right above the Show". And before leaving, he gave us the line every host hopes to hear: "I'd recommend it".
In Albaro, about ten minutes away, guests at Arena Albaro House experienced the other side of the Show: a quiet neighbourhood, a parking space and the bars and restaurants of Arena Albaro Village for the evening.
Genoa Boat Show 2027: the dates and why you should book now
The 67th edition will run from 30 September to 5 October 2027. The organisers aim to integrate the Show even more closely with the Waterfront, and further ahead a new marina designed by Renzo Piano is planned for boats up to 100-120 metres.
This year the homes closest to the quays were the first to fill up. Whether you are coming for work, as an exhibitor or with your staff, or to enjoy the Show as a visitor, booking well in advance is the only way to choose where you stay.
Waterfront Acquario House and Waterfront Porto Antico House are inside the Waterfront di Levante, with a private garage: you can walk from your front door to the quays.
Arena Albaro House is in Albaro, with a parking space. It sleeps up to 6 and is ideal for work teams and families.
Book directly on our website: no extra fees. For long stays or company staff, get in touch and we will put together a tailored offer.
See the Show from our homes on our Instagram profile.
If you are already thinking about where to stay, you will find all the details about our Waterfront homes in our guide Genoa Boat Show 2026: where to stay in the heart of the Waterfront di Levante.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Genoa Boat Show 2027?
The Genoa Boat Show 2027 runs from 30 September to 5 October 2027, at the Waterfront di Levante in Genoa.
How many visitors did the 2026 Genoa Boat Show have?
138,273, 11.3% more than in 2025.
Where to stay near the Genoa Boat Show?
The closest homes are inside the Waterfront di Levante, such as Waterfront Acquario House and Waterfront Porto Antico House, within walking distance of the quays and with a private garage.
Where to park during the Genoa Boat Show?
In the Waterfront underground car park, connected to the Palasport, which in 2026 cost €2.50 per hour up to a maximum of €25 per day. Guests staying in the Waterfront homes have the residence's private garage.
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