The 41st edition of the Palma International Boat Show has just concluded. This year, the boat show was full of surprises: new areas, more businesses, more boats both on land and in the water, and a variety of activities. The Pasión por el Mar interviewed the event director, Chema Sans, for Daily Nautica.

“Each year is different, the show changes to adapt to the latest market trends”, explained Sans, noting how in 2025 they were able to finally satisfy one of the most pressing demand from the sector, increasing the number of exhibition spaces. “It was an aspect that was on hold - notes the PIBS director - and we took advantage of a series of favourable sonditions, leading to chis first step towards growth.”

This expansion was made possible through a new area at Club de Mar, “dedicated to mega yachts, but just sailing yachts,” notes Sans. “These are new vessels - he adds - that are over 40 metres long, some even reaching 80. This has allowed us to create more space for all those vessels who have been on the waiting list for years. Bringing in top level shipyards who can get to know the port, the industry and who might invest both in Balearic industry and sailing is simply extraordinary,” concludes the director of the Balearic event, highlighting how the sector had responded positively to the new space.

A new space that not only added more vessels to the show, but also created a singular attraction for visitors to the show. “Everyone can access this area, but only by sea - says Silvia Delgado, director for ADR Balears, one of the PIBS organisers - so visitors get to enjoy a quick boat ride to get there and back.”

In total during the event, over 600 vessels were on display, of which 250 in the water, and over 300 companies showcased their products and services. “Over 90% of the exhibitors - reveals Delgado - are returning companies, but they always bring something new, because we ask them for world premieres so as to provide innovative content for the event.”

An event that attracts many visitors, local and international. “Many tourists - concludes Sans, referring to s study on the economic impact of the 2024 edition - come just for the show. Indeed, every year, the event generates over 20 million euros in purchases and investments. The average tourist during the event spends more than double a normal tourist does in April: dinner in city restaurants, luxury hotel stays. For the islands, this is a significant economic impact.”

Victoria Calderon