What with all the troubles and challenges we all face each day, bad news headlines and so much more, the Palma International Boat Show was a welcome delight to bring dreams into reality or just share the happy atmosphere for at least a day. Once again the Boat Show drew record numbers and the weather was kind to us all.
The boat show was officially opened on the 29th April by Margo Prohens, President of the Balearics together with Organisers and dignitaries. For myself, I avoid the first day as it is too busy. Always difficult to chat to exhibitors or find space for photos so Thursday it was. A day that the threat of little sun and maybe rain was forecasted. A good choice I thought!! but lucky for me the sun shone and it was a perfect day for walking, talking and taking in the friendliness of all that were enjoying the day, finding new clients and welcoming current clients.
I could not believe it, but this was the 42nd year of this show. For me it surpassed those of past years and I am confident that 2027 shall bring us more surprises. Yes, there are other International boat shows in locations that many love to attend but Palma is relaxed, well organised and with the backdrop of the amazing cathedral, superb hotels and cuisine to suit all tastes I, for one vote Palma as the number one show. Yes, so friendly and smiles all round.
There were new exhibitors and new boats on show for the first time. In all some 310 exhibitors and so many crafts, 600 in total and of those 600, a flotilla of 275 on the water. From small, medium and at the Superyacht Village sail boats of beauty and technology with all over 24 metres to 60 metres. It is another World as we talk in the millions to buy and yearly costs for most is 10% of the value each year. I saw 45 million euro sail boats and over. I knew I should have started that business but you never know my euro millions ticket could be the winning one and I have the contacts! I cannot think of anybody who would be disappointed as luxury interiors drew you into relaxation and with all mod cons. What more could you wish for.
Palma excels in the boat industry, with superb shipyard facilities, servicing and bespoke crafts businesses bringing millions to the island and creating special jobs, broker businesses, legal, insurance and most of all crew jobs and hospitality. Long may that last and recognised by those in power. Make it easier for those here or wishing to re-locate to Mallorca easier and support the industry. Palma and Mallorca has it all and owners of yachts must be welcomed with open arms as the industry creates new jobs, high spending visitors and who would not wish to explore the wonderful sights of Mallorca.
Diversity is a word that we all know and its context can and does cause heated discussions. However, diversity was a key to the show. New innovations, from a new polish, Vuplex Australia marketed by an inept name Boomerang to Novus, one of my favourite stands which manufacture a carbon fibre framed motor bike, no engine but electric from Germany. Power on and 0 to 60 kmph in under 2 seconds. Limited editions with the Boss name and at a competitive 21,000 euros. We had GT Rentals, a super car company based in Madrid but a concession now established at the new Motorworld. A die-for Ferrari was on their stand. Red of course and watches are my love and I was not disappointed as pre owned quality watches brought and sold through the German Company Roschenbeck now based also in Port Adriano had my hand quivering over my credit card. There was the Innovation village showing new products, wine stands and so friendly people from Malta who were promoting business in Malta and indeed in late October there is the Malta boat show and classic car rally.
So diversity made the show. It’s so much more than a boat show. New technology with solar, electric and more efficient diesel powered boats offered options for everybody visiting over the 4 days of the show. I was delighted to represent Celebrity Magazine and meet so many people, make new contacts, see old, well not old but friends!! However, the Palma International Boat Show is not just for yachties or those wishing to buy or charter. It is a day out to remember although wear comfortable footwear. I did 8 hours of walking that day. My fault as there are many places throughout the show where you can sit and enjoy a superb range of foods, drinks, sit down meals and I saw our very own Marc Fosh serving wonderful dishes as one would expect from a Michelin star chef.
If you missed the show this year or thought it was not for me, then I say go next year. You will not be disappointed and who knows you may end up falling in love with life on the ocean wave, buying a boat, chartering for a day or buying a special bottle of vino but at least you will enjoy a memorable day out.
Do please visit our Celebrity Mallorca Magazine website at celebritymallorca.es for more news, articles, concert dates and reports, restaurants to visit and much more that makes for a good read over your coffee or vino. I look forward to drawing you into the experiences of Mallorca so please do visit our site. Your ideas, promoting your business are welcomed. All details are on our website.
David Whitney