News: United Under Blue Skies
World Boating Day returns as the global day of redefining how the world sees boating.
World Boating Day — the global open day inviting the public behind the scenes of the boating industry — will return on May 23, 2026, uniting shipyards, marinas, design studios, manufacturers, and destinations in a coordinated worldwide celebration of life on the water.
Following the remarkable success of the 2025 edition, featuring over 100 events across 18 countries, and reaching 21 million people, the 2026 edition is set to be the most ambitious yet.
This year’s edition will also deepen its reach by actively engaging industry-focused educational institutions and museums alongside industry partners, to broaden public understanding and inspire new audiences. Depending on the location, participants have a number of activities to choose from, including guided tours and presentations, career day for students, sea trials, workshops, and more.
“World Boating Day is our chance to open the doors, invite people in and share the sense of community, innovation and unique culture that keeps us all so passionate about what we do,” says Dilan Saraç, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation, a nonprofit that started this event back in 2024.
The Superyacht Life Foundation is a non-profit organisation that helps drive positive change across the superyacht world through storytelling, collaboration and global initiatives like WBD. In turn, WBD has since become a powerful platform that accomplishes a number of goals: to unite the industry under one global initiative; showcase the people, craftsmanship, and innovation that power the world of boating; and attract new audiences and future talent, creating pathways into maritime careers.
“World Boating Day has become an essential platform for us,” says Stefano de Vivo, President of SYL and Executive Chairman of WOSA, a participating shipyard. “Not only are we showcasing our products but also building credibility, meeting the next generation of talent and sharing our world with a global audience.”
Participation is open to all and offers a unique opportunity to even host an event of your own. To register your interest or learn more about hosting an event during World Boating Day 2026, visit www.worldboatingday.com.