During the Polboat Yachting Festival, one of the most important boat shows in Eastern Europe, we had the opportunity to interview Michał Bąk, President of the event and a key figure in Poland’s maritime industry. In this exclusive conversation, Bąk outlines the highlights of the 2025 edition, market trends in Eastern Europe, the most innovative developments, and future prospects for the boating industry in Poland and beyond.

The Polboat Yachting Festival is considered one of the most significant events for Eastern Europe. What were the main strengths of this year’s edition?

This year was marked by a record number of exhibitors, boats on display, and world premieres. In addition to well-known Polish shipyards such as Sunreef Yachts, Galeon, Parker, Balt-Yacht, Northman, and Sportis, we also welcomed emerging brands like Tardion Yachts, Silesian Yachts, V-Design, and Kłobuk Yacht. Our aim is also to connect the boating industry with water sports and other luxury and lifestyle sectors, including automotive, fashion, and jewelry.

Looking back on the event, how would you assess the overall outcome? Was there an increase in visitor numbers compared to previous editions? And where did most visitors come from?

Thanks to favorable weather conditions, attendance was strong, with over 20,000 visitors over the four days, as in previous years. However, as I mentioned, the number of exhibitors increased by more than 10% compared to 2024, with a higher share of international participants. This year’s exhibitors came from Germany, France, Finland, Croatia, Spain, and even one from China.

What were the most significant new developments presented this year?

There were innovations in every category: sailing yachts, motor yachts, catamarans, and RIBs. However, the most interest centered on electric propulsion models. In addition to the Polish shipyard Green Dream Boats, visitors were able to admire the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom and carbon-built boats such as the Delta 48.

How does the show reflect the dynamics of the Eastern European boating market? Is there growing demand for recreational boats in the region?

After a strong boost during the pandemic, the Eastern European market has remained stable, with consistent demand for recreational boats. The Polboat Yachting Festival is not just a showcase for the Polish boating industry but also an effective sales platform. Every year, an increasing number of international dealers bring their brands to the event, and we’ve seen significant sales take place during the show.

What opportunities are emerging for international shipyards and brands looking to enter this region?

Poland remains competitive in labor costs while having access to the latest technologies and materials. For this reason, Scandinavian and Western European shipyards, including British ones, continue to invest locally, expanding their production infrastructure. This growing interest is also reflected in the increased participation of international experts at the EcoPolboat Forum.

From a commercial standpoint, did the show present real business opportunities?

Absolutely. Many exhibitors reported that the event attracted serious buyers, with several deals and contracts finalized directly on-site. For instance, a Parker Monaco 110 was sold during the festival, the buyer completed the payment and set sail straight from the show. We also received positive feedback from Green Dream Boats and Saxdor Shipyards.

Looking to the future: what are the goals for the next edition of the Polboat Yachting Festival, and how do you plan to enhance its international reach?

Our goal is to expand the exhibition area to allow even more exhibitors to showcase their products and services in the next edition. We will also continue to strengthen the conference program, including the EcoPolboat Forum, which explores the latest trends and the sector’s future in the context of ecological transition. These efforts are already drawing a growing number of international boating journalists, this year, we hosted over ten, coming not only from across Europe but also from the United States.