HISWA TE WATER 2026 | TradeShowIntel

Event overview

Overview

HISWA TE WATER 2026 is the 41st edition of Northwest Europe's largest in-water boat show, held from 2 to 6 September 2026 at Bataviahaven in Lelystad, Netherlands. The event presents over 425 boats in the water, including sailboats, motor yachts, sloops, tenders, and a new houseboat segment.

A record 361 exhibitors will showcase the latest models, marine equipment, and services. New for 2026 are an AI-driven visitor platform for personalised planning, a central EV Motor Show displaying electric and hybrid propulsion systems, and The Green Tour – daily guided walks to 10 sustainable exhibitors

TL;DR

1Largest in-water boat show in Northwest Europe with 425+ boats and 361 exhibitors (record)
2New AI-powered visitor platform for personalised route planning and exhibitor appointments
3Expanded sustainability focus: EV Motor Show, Green Tour (daily guided walks), and Green Route
4New houseboat segment featuring Chinese and electric houseboats
5International growth with new exhibitors from Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Spain, and Germany

Why visit

HISWA TE WATER 2026 offers an unmatched opportunity to explore over 425 new boats from leading manufacturers, all afloat and Experience the latest models, from sailboats and motor yachts to the new houseboat segment, with test sails and hands-on demonstrations Discover thousands of marine products, accessories, and services across a record 361 exhibitor stands The 2026 edition introduces an AI-powered visitor platform for personalised planning, an EV Motor Show showcasing electric and hybrid propulsion Attend workshops, career sessions, and family-friendly activities, making it a complete day out for enthusiasts, professionals, and families alike With over 30,000 visitors expected, it is the premier networking hub for the Dutch and international boating community

Why exhibit

HISWA TE WATER 2026 provides direct access to a loyal, qualified audience of over 30,000 passionate boating enthusiasts, owners, and With a record 361 exhibitors and growing international interest from countries including Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Spain, and Germany, the show The 2026 edition features a new segmented layout clustering similar boat categories, making it easier for visitors to find your Initiatives like. The Green Route, EV Motor Show, and Green Tour actively support exhibitors leading the industry's sustainable transition, attracting With over 40 years of proven success and a strong reputation among consumers, HISWA TE WATER is the ideal platform 1

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Boating enthusiasts and recreational boaters looking to explore new models and products

Prospective boat buyers (first-time and experienced) seeking to compare and test vessels

Yacht owners and sailors interested in upgrades, maintenance, and accessories

Industry professionals including yacht builders, dealers, brokers, and marina operators

Sustainability buyers, facility managers, engineers, and municipalities interested in electric/hybrid propulsion and green technologies

Families and adventurers seeking a leisure day out with water sports activities and entertainment

Job seekers and career-changers attending the Watersport Carrièredagen career section

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Boat manufacturers and shipyards (sailboats, motor yachts, sloops, tenders, houseboats)

Marine equipment and accessory suppliers (navigation, electronics, deck hardware, safety gear)

Engine and propulsion system providers, especially electric and hybrid technology companies

Sustainable boating solution providers (electric motors, lithium batteries, eco-friendly coatings, solar/wind energy systems)

Brokerage and charter companies

Service providers (maintenance, refit, insurance, finance)

Technology and innovation startups (eligible for the Startup Award)

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Sailboats

Motorboats / powerboats

Tenders

Houseboats

Electric and hybrid boats

Electric and hybrid propulsion systems (EV Motor Show)

Marine accessories and spare parts

Navigation and electronics (radar, sonar, radio equipment)

Engines (outboard and inboard)

Boat rental, charter and holidays

Yacht building and maintenance

Safety and innovation on the water

Sustainable boating solutions (The Green Route, including lithium batteries, clean toilets, sustainable antifouling, sustainable materials, solar/wind energy)

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Bataviahaven

Bataviahaven 1, 8242 PR Lelystad, Netherlands

Entrances & gates

Main entrance

Entrance hall at the quayside; press accreditation and information desk located here

Floor plans & maps

Official venue page

Facilities

Food options

Harbour-side food trucks and restaurants

On-site dining

Parking: Parking is available at the Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet car parks for €4 per day, within walking distance of the Bataviahaven. Electric vehicle charging points are available at P2 (20 points) and P5 (20 points). Parking tickets can be purchased at the machines on the outlet car park

Attend

Entry & tickets

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Daily10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Wednesday 2 September through Sunday 6 September 2026)

Ticket info

Ticket notes

Tickets are available via the official HISWA website; advance purchase is cheaper than on-site purchase Press accredited journalists receive free entry upon presentation of valid press credentials

Who runs the show

Organisers

HMM Exhibitions BV

Organiser

Website

Arjen Rahusen

Exhibition Director

Email Call Website

Media Officer

Press & Media Relations

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Award Ceremony

Interview

TBA

Event days

10:00–22:00

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Peter Rijsenbrij

Presenter / DJ

Boot van het Jaar presentations, interviews, music

Onno Walda

Host @ Varen doe je samen

VaarQuiz

Tom Waes

Special Guest

Interview

N–

NJI – Nederlandse Jachtbouw Industrie

Presenter @ NJI

Zorgeloos varen met behulp van AI App

Matthijs Kat

Presenter @ Watersport-TV

HTW nieuwsflitsen, beursprimeurs

10:00 – 11:00

IVA bijeenkomst

Meeting

Podium aan het water

12:00 – 12:30

Official opening with live music – 40 years Hiswa te Water (2025 edition)

Opening Ceremony

Podium aan het water

13:30 – 14:00

Boot van het Jaar presentation

Award Ceremony

Podium aan het water

13:30 – 14:00

Special Guest – Tom Waes

Interview

Podium aan het water

14:30 – 15:00

Presentation: Zorgeloos varen met behulp van AI App

Presentation

Podium aan het water

15:30 – 16:00

VaarQuiz

Quiz

Podium aan het water

15:30 – 16:00

Boot van het Jaar winner interview

Interview

Podium aan het water

19:00 – 22:00

Boot van het Jaar awards ceremony (2026 edition)

Award Ceremony

TBD

Topic tracks

Sailboats, Powerboats and TendersElectric Boating and SustainabilityMarine Accessories and Spare PartsBoat Rental, Charter and HolidaysYacht Building and MaintenanceSafety and Innovation on the Water

Co-located events

Boot van het Jaar Awards 2026

Separate ticket

EV Motor Show

Separate ticket

The Green Tour

Separate ticket

Watersport Carrièredagen

Separate ticket

KNRM live demonstrations

Separate ticket

Co-located seminars

Podium aan het Water: expert talks and presentations

Paid

Duurzaam Varen kennisbalie

Paid

Awards

Boot van het Jaar (Boat of the Year)

Annual

Innovation awards presented at HISWA te Water, recognising the best new boats and innovations across multiple categories. Categories include sailboats, motorboats, sloops & tenders, electric boats, and the Startup Award for young companies. An Oeuvre Award is also given to honour long-standing contributions to the Dutch boating industry

Zeilboot (Sailboat)Motorboot (Motorboat)Sloepen & TendersElektrische Boot (Electric Boat)Startup AwardOeuvre Award

source

Government supporters

Gemeente Lelystad

Host municipality; supports the event and its continued presence in Lelystad

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Last edition

2025

Completed

Visitors: 30,000

This edition

2026

Visitors: 30,000

Exhibitors: 440

Next edition

2026

The 41st edition of HISWA te Water will take place from 2–6 September 2026 at Bataviahaven in Lelystad . The show is expanding its sustainability focus with an enhanced Green Route, transforming it from a recognition label into a knowledge and comparison platform . A central EV Motor Show and daily Green Tours are planned to help visitors compare sustainable technologies . The show expects to host around 400 boats and is building on the record success of the 2025 edition

Expansion of The Green Route into a knowledge and comparison platform with a central EV Motor Show and interactive map Introduction of daily Green Tours, guiding small groups to approximately ten exhibitors specialising in sustainable applications Continued focus on sustainability, with dedicated areas for electric and hybrid propulsion, lithium batteries, clean toilets, and sustainable materials

Growth over time

Edition recap

The 40th edition of Hiswa te Water took place from 3 to 7 September 2025 at Bataviahaven in Lelystad, celebrating the show's anniversary with record attendance. Visitor numbers once again surpassed 30,000, and more than 425 brand-new boats from around the world were on display. The show introduced 'The Green Route' to highlight sustainable boating innovations, alongside the EV Motor Show and interactive Fun Parc. Exhibitors reported high satisfaction, with many generating strong leads and sales. The Boat of the Year awards were presented on the eve of the show, honouring the best in sailing yachts, motorboats, sloops & tenders, and the Startup Award. The organisation also signed an agreement to keep the show at Bataviahaven for the next five years [10†L11-L14][7†L8-L9][9†L30-L31].

New this edition

1
The Green Route
Introduced at the 2025 edition, this dedicated route guides visitors past exhibitors specialising in electric and hybrid propulsion, from outboard motors to complete systems, clearly marked on the show map and pontoons [10†L21-L25]
Source
2
EV Motor Show
A dedicated section for electric boats and motors, featured prominently in the 2024 and 2025 editions as part of the show's sustainability focus [0†L15-L16]
Source
3
Fun Parc
An interactive area where visitors can try E-jetsurf, E-foils, and Seabobs, introduced as a family-friendly attraction in recent editions
Source

Testimonials

We had more visitors than ever, exhibitors from a record number of countries and a hugely enjoyable, festive atmosphere. It could hardly be otherwise with beautiful weather and such beautiful boats in such a perfect location
Arjen Rahusen · Exhibition Director · HISWA te Water · 2024

On the last day we sold another new Vedette and that is ultimately what we are here for
Hans van Veen · Representative · Vedette Jachtbouw · 2024

I can't really think of anything negative. The fair was very well attended, we had beautiful weather, and the organisation was top-notch. After the Boatshow, we will still get busy processing the information requests and trial runs
Jack Verbeek · Representative · Van den Hoven Jachtbouw · 2024

Now that we are focusing a bit more on Europe, it is important that our custom-built boats are also appreciated at home. That certainly happened here. We had no shortage of attention, and it generated some nice leads
Thijmen Bolle · Representative · Vanquish Yachts · 2024

It was great to see such a lively, enthusiastic, and well-attended show. The variety of boating experiences on display and the welcoming environment for both existing and potential customers highlight the strength and appeal of our industry
Joe Lynch · Representative · ICOMIA · 2025

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 40th edition of HISWA te Water was a milestone event, solidifying its position as Northern Europe's largest in-water boat show . The show attracted record attendance, with over 30,000 visitors and more than 425 new boats, and was hailed as the 'best ever' by the exhibition director . The introduction of The Green Route demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, aligning with industry trends . The show's success led to its membership in the International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO), enhancing its international profile

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

High-quality, engaged audience. Visitors were described as 'really interested' and the atmosphere was 'gezellig' (cosy) and festive . Exhibitors reported strong interactions, with many generating leads and sales. The show attracted a mix of consumers and professionals, including boat buyers, marina operators, and water sports enthusiasts

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors expressed high satisfaction, with many reporting strong lead generation and sales. The show was described as a 'topeditie' (top edition) with 'really interested' visitors . One exhibitor noted that the organisation was 'top-notch' and that they would be busy processing information requests and trial runs after the show. The exhibition director noted that there was already 'a lot of interest from potential new exhibitors'- 3

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Netherlands, Northern Europe

Why it matters

HISWA TE WATER is Northern Europe's largest in-water boat show and one of the Netherlands' leading consumer boat shows. With over 400 new boats, 30,000+ visitors, and a strong focus on sustainability through. The Green Route and EV Motor Show, it serves as a key barometer for the European leisure marine industry. Its recent membership in IFBSO and expansion of sustainable boating initiatives signal its growing international influence and its role in driving the industry's transition to electric and hybrid propulsion. The show provides a unique platform for exhibitors to connect with a loyal, qualified audience in an environment where boats can be experienced on the water

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Sustainable boating and electric propulsion

The boating industry is increasingly shifting towards electric and hybrid propulsion systems, lithium battery technology, environmentally friendly sanitation, sustainable antifouling, and renewable energy sources. HISWA TE WATER 2026 is responding with. The Green Route, EV Motor Show, and Green Tours to help visitors compare and understand these technologies

Source

Knowledge and comparison platforms

Trade fairs are evolving from simple product showcases into knowledge and comparison platforms. HISWA TE WATER 2026 is expanding. The Green Route from a recognition label into a platform where visitors can compare electric motors, systems, and sustainability solutions across multiple exhibitors

Source

In-water boat shows as experiential platforms

The Benelux region is identified as the fastest-growing leisure boat market in Europe, with an anticipated CAGR of 5.22% through 2033, reaching USD 1.3 billion- . The Dutch boating and water sports sector is valued at €6.6 billion

Source

Cooling superyacht market, but Dutch builders remain strong

While the superyacht market shows signs of cooling, Dutch yacht builders continue to see demand, particularly in the expedition yacht segment. Over a quarter of yachts under construction in the Netherlands are speculative, especially smaller vessels

Knowledge and comparison platforms for sustainable technology

Events are evolving from simple product showcases to knowledge and comparison platforms, helping buyers navigate the growing complexity of electric and hybrid systems, power outputs, and applications

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Hiswa te Water makes sustainable boating more comparable

Read

HISWA TE WATER joins IFBSO as federation continues membership growth

Read

HISWA te water special on Watersport-TV

Read

Hiswa te Water 2026: The Green Route EV Motor Show and Green Tour Put Sustainable Boating Centre Stage

Read

HISWA te Water 2026: Grootste Botenbeurs van Noord-Europa keert terug naar Lelystad

Read

European in-water and indoor boat show circuit

September–November 2026

HISWA TE WATER (2–6 September 2026) is part of a European boat show calendar, with several major events occurring in the weeks before and after. These shows offer exhibitors and visitors a sequence of opportunities to showcase, compare, and experience the latest in marine technology and design

1 Jan 2026

Cannes Yachting Festival

Cannes, France

49th edition; held across two iconic harbours in Cannes

website

1 Jan 2026

Southampton International Boat Show

Southampton, United Kingdom

57th edition; held at Mayflower Park; over 90,000 visitors expected

website

1 Jan 2026

Grand Pavois La Rochelle

La Rochelle, France

Japan is Country of Honour for 2026

website

1 Jan 2026

Interboot

Friedrichshafen, Germany

Held on Lake Constance; combines in-water and indoor exhibitions

website

1 Jan 2026

Genoa International Boat Show

Genoa, Italy

66th edition; major international yachting industry event

website

1 Jan 2026

METSTRADE

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Over 1,700 exhibitors from 140+ countries; leading platform for leisure marine professionals

website

September cluster (in-water shows)

HISWA TE WATER 2026Cannes Yachting Festival 2026Southampton International Boat Show 2026Grand Pavois la Rochelle 2026Interboot 2026

A dense sequence of in-water boat shows across Europe, offering exhibitors and visitors a month-long circuit of major marine events

October–November (indoor and B2B shows)

Genoa International Boat Show 2026METSTRADE 2026

Transition from consumer-focused in-water shows to B2B and equipment-focused indoor exhibitions

Dates and details compiled from official show websites and IFBSO listings

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · EUR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

AMS

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Main international gateway. Direct trains run every 15–20 minutes from Schiphol Airport Train Station to Lelystad Centrum, journey time ~46–67 minutes- . From Lelystad Centrum, shuttle buses are available to the venue

~53 km (33 miles) by rail

to venue

~47 minutes

by car

LEY

Lelystad Airport

Regional airport with limited commercial flights; primarily general aviation

~6.5 km (4.0 mi) south-southeast of Lelystad city centre

to venue

~10–15 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

budget

Lelystad city centre and surrounding areas

USD 80–120 / night

Various B&Bs and budget hotels available. Examples include B&B de Valkenhorst, Lelymare Logies, and Hajé Waterlodge de Lepelaar

mid-range

Lelystad city centre

USD 120–200 / night

Leonardo Hotel Lelystad City Center is a popular 4-star option in the centre, mentioned on the official HISWA site . Van der Valk Hotel Lelystad is also a 4-star choice

unique

Bataviahaven and surrounding waters

USD 150–250 / night

Oktopus Lodge offers overnight stays on the water at the harbour . Hotelschip De Succes is another unique accommodation option located directly at Bataviahaven

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Car

Estimated cost€4.00 per day parking

Best forA6 motorway, exit Lelystad-Noord, follow signs for 'Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet'- 1

Park at Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet car parks within walking distance of Bataviahaven. EV charging points available: 20 at P2 and 20 at P5 . Purchase parking ticket upon arrival at payment machines

Train + Bus

Estimated costBus fare €2–$4 (approx. $2.20–$4.40 USD)

Best forTrain to NS Station Lelystad Centrum, then transfer to bus 3 towards Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet

Bus journey takes approximately 11–14 minutes- . From the bus stop, follow signs for HISWA te Water to the venue

Boat

Estimated costVaries (marina fees apply)

Best forNavigate to Bataviahaven Lelystad via the Markermeer

The five marinas in Lelystad welcome visitors arriving by boat . This is the 'ultimate way' to arrive at HISWA te Water

Shuttle Bus

Estimated costIncluded with event or low fare

Best forLelystad Centrum station to Bataviahaven

Shuttle buses are available from the station- . Bus 3 is the regular public transport option

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Schengen short-stay visa (type C)	Nationals of countries that have not concluded a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, including India, China, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, and many others. Valid for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period	$99.00	15 calendar days (standard); can be extended to 45 days in individual cases

Nationals of EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Monaco, Vatican City, and many other countries do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period)- . A full list is available from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)- . From the last quarter of 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be required for visa-exempt nationals

The Netherlands accepts ATA Carnets for temporary import of exhibition materials, trade samples, and professional equipment- . The carnet allows duty-free and tax-free temporary import for up to one year- . It must be validated by Dutch Customs before departure . Apply via the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK)

Official visa page

Weather

Early September in Lelystad: average high ~19°C (66°F), low ~11°C (52°F)- . Rainfall occurs on about 12–13 days during the month, with average precipitation of 27–69 mm- . Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are advisable as the show is partly outdoors on quays and pontoons

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Netherlands has excellent 4G/5G coverage. Free Wi-Fi may be available at the venue but is not guaranteed; the marina provides Wi-Fi for berth holders- . Check with the organiser for on-site connectivity

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Business culture

The Dutch are direct, pragmatic, and value punctuality- . Meetings are typically efficient and to the point- . Handshakes with eye contact are the standard greeting- . First names are used quickly- . Over-politeness may be distrusted

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in the Netherlands. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is customary. Service charges are usually included in bills

Language

Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in tourism and business settings

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

Visa

A Schengen visa is required for nationals of many non-EU/EEA countries. Visa-exempt nationals (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. ETIAS will be required for visa-exempt travellers from Q4 2026

Processing: 15 calendar days (standard)

Apply well in advance at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country. Processing may take longer during peak seasons

Official

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Train from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Lelystad Centrum station (approx. 46–67 minutes), then shuttle bus to Bataviahaven

Hotel → venue: Shuttle buses from Lelystad Centrum station to Bataviahaven; local taxis and ride-hail services available

Ride-hail: Uber and local taxi services available in Lelystad

Public transit: Train and bus network connects Lelystad to major cities; shuttle buses operate from the station to the venue during the show

Parking: Ample parking available at Bataviahaven and Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet car parks (€4.00 per day)

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Seasonality: Early September in Lelystad: average daytime temperatures ~17–20°C (63–68°F), with moderate rainfall. Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are advisable. The show is partly outdoors on the quays and pontoons

Packing: Early September in Lelystad: average high ~19°C (66°F), low ~11°C (52°F)- . Rainfall occurs on about 12–13 days during the month, with average precipitation of 27–69 mm- . Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are advisable as the show is partly outdoors on quays and pontoons

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

09:30Arrive at Bataviahaven, pick up show map and programme
10:00Explore The Green Route and EV Motor Show; visit sustainable boating exhibitors
12:30Lunch break at one of the harbour-side food trucks or restaurants
14:00Join a guided Green Tour (approx. 1 hour) to see electric and hybrid innovations
15:30Visit the Fun Parc to try E-foils or Seabobs, then explore new boat models on the water
17:00Attend a talk or live music at 'Podium aan het Water'
18:00End of show day; return to hotel or explore Lelystad evening dining

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Wednesday (opening day) or Thursday

Opening day (Wednesday) tends to be less crowded and offers the first look at new launches and innovations. Thursday also offers good access before the weekend rush, with all programme elements (Green Tours, EV Motor Show, talks) fully running

6–12 months before

Research and confirm participation — Review exhibitor information, secure budget, and decide on stand type (space-only, shell scheme, or custom turnkey)

6–12 months before

Register and book booth space — Submit registration and exhibitor contract through the official organizer. Early booking recommended for prime locations

4–6 weeks before

Order hanging signs — Hanging signs must be ordered 4-6 weeks in advance. Submit structural drawings, fire-retardant certification, weight/dimensions, and placement on the rigging plan

3–4 weeks before

Order furniture and electricals — Order standard furniture (chairs, tables, counters) and electrical outlets (110V/220V, 3-phase) through the venue's utility portal. Book 4-8 weeks before the show to avoid late surcharges

3–4 weeks before

Order AV equipment (LED walls, etc.) — Rent LED video walls, displays, and other AV equipment from AV companies with on-site installation and support

Before setup

Review house rules and compliance — Review the HMM Exhibitions BV house rules. Ensure stand construction is within the rented square meters and standard height (2.50m in pavilions). Obtain permission for music use

Setup period

Stand construction and boat placement — Adhere to setup times specified in the web shop. All work must be completed by 18:00 on the last setup day. Boats must be moored at assigned berths on time

During show

Engage visitors and follow up — Actively engage with visitors, provide demonstrations, and collect leads. Staff the stand during all show hours

Post-show

Dismantle and clear stand — Dismantle after official closing. Leave stand space clean and damage-free. Remove all materials and waste by the specified dismantling deadline

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day