From 19 to 22 March 2026, the Port of Nice will host the first international boat show fully dedicated to sustainable boating, marking a significant step in the sector’s transition toward new environmental and economic models. Organised by Grand Pavois Organisation, Nice Boating Tomorrow combines a four-day exhibition with a two-day international B2B forum designed to bring together industry leaders, innovators, policymakers and investors.
The boating industry is entering a phase of rapid transformation driven by regulatory pressure, technological innovation and changing expectations among owners and users. Within this context, Nice Boating Tomorrow aims to serve as a platform for dialogue and practical solutions, highlighting initiatives that redefine propulsion, design and marina infrastructure.
An international forum focused on transition
At the heart of the event is the International Forum, scheduled for 19 and 20 March at the newly inaugurated OcéaNice Convention Center. The programme features roundtables, keynote sessions and networking opportunities addressing themes such as decarbonisation strategies, sustainable lifecycle approaches and evolving customer expectations in leisure boating.
Confirmed speakers include Eric Banel from the Directorate General for Maritime Affairs, Patrick Hemp of ICOMIA, Alain Leboeuf of the Vendée Globe, Adria Jover of the International Electric Maritime Association and Prof. Dr. Phil Klaus, co-founder of Lexden Luxe. Their contributions reflect the cross-sector nature of the transition, linking policy, design, innovation and experience strategy.
Several sessions will explore alternative energy solutions for leisure vessels, including hydrogen propulsion, electric mobility and the infrastructure required to support new usage models. Others will examine marina management and the balance between ecological constraints and future demand patterns.
Innovation, entrepreneurship and industry dialogue
Alongside established industry figures, the forum will host “Pitch your project” sessions that give start-ups and students an opportunity to present new ideas. Renowned naval architect Marc Van Peteghem is expected to deliver a keynote testimony, reinforcing the event’s focus on design innovation and sustainable performance.
Networking remains a central pillar of the forum. Business lunches, dedicated meetings and evening gatherings aim to facilitate collaboration between shipyards, technology companies, marina operators and local authorities. According to organisers, the goal is to create an environment where decision-makers can exchange insights and accelerate projects linked to maritime transition.
Nice as a strategic Mediterranean stage
The choice of Nice reflects the city’s growing role within the maritime sustainability agenda. The OcéaNice Convention Center, inaugurated in 2025 during the United Nations Ocean Conference, offers modern conference facilities and a waterfront setting connected directly to the exhibition area.
Positioned at the crossroads of Mediterranean boating culture and innovation, the event seeks to establish Nice as a long-term meeting point for stakeholders committed to responsible yachting development.
Grand Pavois Organisation expands its vision
With more than five decades of experience through events such as the Grand Pavois La Rochelle, Grand Pavois Organisation continues to broaden its international presence. Through Nice Boating Tomorrow, the organiser aims to create a reference platform for sustainable boating worldwide, reflecting the industry’s shift toward lower-impact technologies and new ownership models.
As environmental considerations reshape design, propulsion and marina ecosystems, Nice Boating Tomorrow positions itself as a catalyst for dialogue between tradition and innovation. For professionals across the yachting sector, the March gathering could offer an early glimpse into the operational realities of tomorrow’s boating landscape.
Rebecca Gabbi