Source: HRT
Düsseldorf is a mecca for sailors, lovers of the sea and everything related to the sea these days. Everything is on display – from super-luxury yachts to surfboards. Along with the latest trends, the best nautical destinations are also presented. And Croatia has been at the top of the list for years.
Lovers of the sea come into their own here. And in every respect. From diving equipment, to sailing, rowing and surfing equipment, to boat equipment and vessels.
– It’s fantastic, it’s our first time here because I love diving and even though I didn’t plan to, I think I’ll buy something anyway because everything looks great, said Carina Schweiger, a visitor from Austria.
Located on 220 thousand square meters, in 17 huge halls, this is the world’s largest yacht and water sports exhibition.
Even the pickiest will find something for themselves.
– I think this is my 17th-18th fair, I love boats, I have one too, my legs hurt a little at the end of the day, but it’s good, I love it, said seller Đino Hajdić.
Sustainability and the blue economy
The focus of the fair is sustainability and the blue economy. Solar panels on vessels, and sea grass as an effective insulating material.
– This is material for insulation, for example, a house. The advantage, among other things, is that it does not burn, explained Frank Schweikert from the German Ocean Organization.
However, not only the newest vessels and marine equipment are presented here, but also the most attractive nautical destinations.
On the nautical map of the world, Croatia has been among the most sought-after for years.
– Croatia has traditionally exhibited here, including at the CNTZ stand. But there are also many other co-exhibitors or exhibitors who are there independently, many charter companies. The entire hall 13 is practically dedicated to Croatia, said Romeo Draghicchio, director of the CNTZ representative office in Germany.
– Despite the ongoing challenges of both the geopolitical situation and inflationary pressures, nautical tourism remains a stable segment of tourism. We expect such developments and such a trend in 2026, said Adriana Mišković, ACI’s Director of Communications and Marketing.
– Croatia’s nautical assets are the world’s largest charter fleet, an indented coastline, short distances between destinations, favorable winds and very good nautical infrastructure, said Mišković.
35 percent of the world’s charter fleet is located here.
– Sailing boats and catamarans are still in demand, but there is also an increase in motor yachts of 12-20 meters, and vessels over 40 meters are also in demand, of course among those with higher purchasing power, said Žarko Knego, Euromarine d.o.o..
Germans are the most loyal Croatian guests
And Germany is, in this segment of tourism as well, the most important source market. Many people return to the Croatian coast year after year.
– Whenever I’m in Croatia, I discover a new place, and your islands are truly special, said Manfred Skalnik, a visitor from Germany.
The fair remains open until January 25th, and when the lights go out, who knows who will sail the Adriatic and on what vessels.
The Düsseldorf Boat Show is a key event for the promotion of Croatian boating, especially on the German market, which is among the most important for Croatia.
– The Düsseldorf Boat Show is one of the most important boat shows in the world. Croatia, as a strong nautical country with more than a thousand islands, logically has to be here and present its offer, said Draghicchio.
He added that Croatia was represented through the Croatian Tourist Board’s stand, as well as numerous marinas and charter companies, which is why Croatia’s appearance at the fair was well-noted.
Visitor interest is high, and personal contact is still indispensable, despite the availability of information on the internet.
– Croatia is a strong nautical destination and extremely important for the German market. We expect to repeat last year’s results, and perhaps even surpass them, Draghicchio pointed out.
He emphasized that during the first weekend of the fair, numerous conversations were held with potential guests and partners from the sector and that the fair has so far met all expectations.
Let us remind you that last year, guests from the German market achieved more than three million arrivals and more than 22 million overnight stays in Croatia.
Photo: Slobodna Dalmacija / Boot Düsseldorf
