PIBS joins the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers

According to IFBSO, the event organised by the Ministry of Business, Self-Employment and Energy and BYBA contributes to the growth and sustainability of the nautical industry.

The Palma International Boat Show will become part of the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), which brings together the main fairs in the sector. The aim of this membership is to increase the international visibility of the Palma event, organised by the Ministry of Business, Self-Employment and Energy through the Regional Development Agency of the Balearic Islands (ADRBalears), and the Balearic Yacht Brokers Association (BYBA), as well as to expand its global network of contacts.

The Palma boat show, which will hold its 42nd edition from 29th of April to 2nd of May 2026, has consolidated itself as one of Europe’s leading nautical events, marking the start of the summer boating season with more than 300 exhibitors and an innovative format combining land and on-water exhibitions. Held at Palma’s historic Moll Vell, the fair has carved out a distinctive position in the Mediterranean market thanks to its strong emphasis on sailing megayachts and large yacht construction.

IFBSO President, Niels Klarenbeek, stated: “We are delighted to welcome the Palma International Boat Show to the IFBSO family because it represents everything we value in boat shows: professional organisation, innovation, and a genuine understanding that these events must be experiences, not just transactions. Its success in creating solid partnerships between government and the private sector, combined with its commitment to sustainability, demonstrates the type of forward-thinking leadership our industry needs. Having a show of this calibre and reputation strengthens IFBSO’s ability to represent the very best in global boat show excellence.”

The Palma fair brings strong credentials to the federation. It is worth highlighting that the event generated an economic impact of €20.1 million in its latest edition. Moreover, the show not only promotes the nautical lifestyle but also makes an important economic contribution, boosting tourism during a traditionally quieter month and supporting hotels, restaurants, transport services and local businesses.

The Minister for Business, Self-Employment and Energy, Alejandro Sáenz de San Pedro, stated that “the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers is an organisation that brings together the world’s leading boat show organisers and provides its members with significant international visibility and professional resources.” The minister emphasised that “being part of it provides access to best practices, training and technical documentation, as well as joint promotional activities and strategic sector reports. In addition, IFBSO represents its members institutionally before international organisations, helping defend and strengthen the interests of boat shows worldwide.”

The International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) is a global association representing the interests of boat show organisers worldwide. Founded in 1964, IFBSO promotes excellence in boat show management, fosters international cooperation, and advocates for the recreational boating industry. The federation’s members collectively attract more than 1.5 million watersports enthusiasts to their shows each year, boosting enthusiasm for the nautical lifestyle and supporting boat sales around the world. As of January 2026, IFBSO represents 33 boat shows in 17 countries.

According to IFBSO, Palma is an example of why boat shows remain vital to the growth and sustainability of the nautical industry. For many newcomers, these events provide the first tangible experience of the boating lifestyle, an opportunity to explore vessels, meet industry experts, and discover the freedom and adventure sailing offers.

IFBSO and its member shows are committed not only to supporting exhibitors and ensuring commercial success, but also to providing attendees with authentic experiences that inspire them to join the nautical community. Shows like Palma understand this mission and incorporate multiple lifestyle-related events to convey the excitement and culture of sailing beyond the transactional aspect.

Furthermore, boat shows also play a crucial educational role, promoting training opportunities and career pathways in the recreational boating sector.