A boat show is a public exhibition or trade fair that presents current boat models, debuts, concept vessels, or out-of-production classics. Exhibitors and attendees typically include ship and boat builders, marine manufacturers and yachtsmen. The world’s most important boat shows are recognized by the International Federation of Boat Show Organizers (IFBSO). One of them is the Japan International Boat Show.
The Japan International Boat Show is organized by the Japan Marine Industry Association (JMIA). The inaugural show was held in Tokyo in 1962. It was Japan’s first full-scale boat show. Soon the event relocated to Yokohama, one of the country’s major ports that has a great infrastructure for this kind of event.
The show has two venues. The Pacifico Yocohama (Pacific Convention Plaza Yokohama) in the Nishi-ku ward hosts the indoor exhibition, while the outdoor exhibition of floating vessels takes place at the Yokohama Bayside Marina. Alongside the boat exhibition, the show includes joint events, such as a used boat fair organized by the Japan Used Boat Association and a boat operator license renewal / expired license restatement course organized by the Japan Marine Recreation Association.
The Japan International Boat Show showcases new sailboat and motorboat models, as well as offers the latest marine industry information. The indoor venue hosts displays of the latest sailboat, motorboat and personal watercraft models. Numerous exhibitors also present marine accessories and other items to help attendees enjoy the marine lifestyle. At the Yokohama Inside Marina, visitors can see and even come aboard around 50 sailing cruisers and large motorboats that are docked on the water.
In addition to the boat and accessory exhibition, the program of the show includes special displays and stage events such as lectures, marine seminars and talk shows. They are aimed at both industry professionals and people who simply enjoy the marine lifestyle.
Photo: Alain Garcia Bariel
