Italy's maritime exhibition, Salone Nautico, revolves around politics
In the heart of Italy, the 65th edition of the Genoa International Boat Show is set to make a splash, with organisers aiming to surpass last year's record-breaking attendance of 120,000 visitors. Piero Formenti, president of Confindustria Nautica, expresses confidence that the sector's numbers in 2025 will solidify those of '24, driven by the growth of superyachts and mid-sized brands.
This year's show promises to be an exciting spectacle, with 123 new models and 96 world premieres gracing the waters. The nautical sector has been on an upward trajectory, with a record turnover of 8.6 billion in 2024, up from the previous year, and still growing by 10% in 2025.
Edoardo Rixi, the undersecretary, has announced concrete investments to upgrade infrastructure and support sustainable tourism. Over 5.5 billion has been earmarked for modern and sustainable ports, 16 billion for the Ligurian railway network, and 3.5 billion for road infrastructure in Genoa. These investments are expected to further boost the sector's growth.
The nautical sector is not just about glamour and luxury. It's a significant contributor to the economy, with 90% of what it produces being exported. The sector exported 4.3 billion in 2024, a testament to its global reach.
Confidence is returning to the nautical sector, not just due to the desire to buy boats or go to sea, but due to the confidence to spend money now or in the future. This confidence is echoed by Minister Adolfo Urso, who sees the nautical sector as a calling card for all of Italian industry.
However, challenges remain. Emanuele Orsini, president of Confindustria, expresses concern about potential penalties for the nautical industry similar to those imposed on the automotive industry in Europe, which could become a problem.
Maritime activities are a small part of pollution emissions but are at the forefront of innovation for sustainability. This is evident in the skilled craftsmen and artisans involved in the production of Italian yachts. Many of these artisans, such as those trained at the nautical vocational school in Genoa, possess expertise in woodworking, finishing, and millimeter-precise manufacturing processes essential for high-quality yacht building.
The Genoa International Boat Show is more than just a display of luxury yachts. It's a testament to Italy's industrial prowess, a showcase of sustainable innovation, and a celebration of traditional craftsmanship. The show features over a thousand boats, mostly in the water, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the world of yachting.
With the support of local authorities and the Italian government, the Genoa International Boat Show aims to cement its position as one of the most important nautical salons in the world. President Formenti aspires for Genoa to become the number one, and with the right investments and policies, that dream might just become a reality.
The show, which opened its doors on 21st September, will run until the 26th, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of the nautical world. Marco Bucci, the President of the Liguria Region, aims to make the Genoa Nautical Salon the number one in the world, and with the support of the community, it seems like a goal within reach.
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