The Palma International Boat Show (PIBS), locally known as the “Salón Náutico de Palma,” is an event renowned for its excellence in the nautical industry.
This emblematic show is held annually every spring in the port of Palma and has become one of Europe’s leading nautical events, attracting boat enthusiasts, industry professionals, exhibitors, and sea lovers from around the world.
Located in the beautiful city of Palma de Mallorca, this maritime event spans several days, combining the elegance of luxury vessels with the excitement of the latest technological innovations in the world of navigation.
It showcases a wide variety of boats, from sailboats and luxury yachts to inflatable and rigid-hull boats, and also features a diverse range of nautical accessories, electronic equipment, and maritime services.
Celebrating “40 años a toda vela” (“40 years at full sail”)
The latest edition of the Palma International Boat Show celebrated the event’s 40th anniversary from April 25th to 28th, 2024, at Marina Moll Vell.
It was a great success, with the participation of 295 companies and 260 boats on display. The event attracted over 30,000 visitors from around the world and has definitely become a landmark event on the international fair calendar.
Highlights of the Palma International Boat Show 2024
Boats
- World Premieres: The PIBS 2024 witnessed the world launch of several new boats, such as the Swan 65 sailboat and the Princess X82 motor yacht.
- Superyacht Exhibition: The Palma Superyacht Village showcased an impressive collection of superyachts over 24 meters in length.
- Wide Variety of Boats: Visitors could find boats for every budget and need, from small inflatable boats to luxury yachts.
Exhibitors
- International Presence: Over 295 companies from around the world exhibited their products and services.
- Technological Innovations: The latest advancements in nautical technology were on display, including navigation systems, safety equipment, and electric motors.
- Wide Range of Services: Visitors could find everything they needed to enjoy their life at sea (moorings, insurance, nautical clothing, charters, etc.).
Events
- Live Demonstrations: Visitors could get up close to the latest boats and technologies in action.
- Seminars and Workshops: There was a wide variety of seminars and workshops on various nautical topics (navigation, safety, maintenance, and repair).
- Children’s Activities: The youngest visitors could enjoy different activities, such as boat building workshops, painting contests, and games.
The Atmosphere of the Palma International Boat Show
The Palma International Boat Show is a festive event ideal for the whole family, featuring live music, food and drinks, and plenty of opportunities for socializing.
As the event takes place at Marina Moll Vell, attendees can enjoy wonderful views of Palma Bay.
Exhibitors and Activities
The event showcases the participation of prominent boat manufacturers, shipyards, and nautical equipment distributors from around the world.
Visitors have the opportunity to admire an impressive selection of vessels—motor yachts, catamarans, high-performance sailboats, among many others. Additionally, advisory and financing services are offered for those interested in acquiring a boat.
Moreover, the Palma International Boat Show offers an excellent program of activities including water sports demonstrations, informative talks on navigation, live shows, concerts, and tastings of local products.
Local Gastronomy
During the Palma International Boat Show, attendees can indulge in an exquisite selection of fresh seafood, tapas, and high-quality local wines.
Mallorcan cuisine is a true delight, with a wide variety of traditional dishes reflecting the island’s rich culinary heritage.
Tips for Visiting the Palma International Boat Show
To make the most of the event, consider the following recommendations:
- Dress comfortably and bring sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the Mediterranean sun.
- Stay hydrated and have a map of the event on hand to not miss any of the main attractions.
- Access to the Palma International Boat Show is easy, with public transportation options and parking available near the fairground. But if you want to explore the island, consider renting a car to enjoy the freedom of moving at your own pace.
- Palma de Mallorca offers a wide variety of accommodation options, but it’s best to book in advance to ensure availability during the event, especially during the peak tourist months.
The National and International Importance of the Palma International Boat Show
The Palma International Boat Show is not just a nautical trade fair. It attracts people from all over the world, promoting nautical tourism in the region and contributing to the international prestige of Palma de Mallorca as a tourist destination in general.
It not only remains a highlight on the international nautical calendar but also has a significant impact on the local economy, generating income for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and shops.
The future of the Palma International Boat Show is promising; it is expected to continue being a key driver for the economic growth and tourist development of Palma de Mallorca and its surroundings.
Undoubtedly, the Palma International Boat Show is an event not to be missed. We look forward to welcoming you to GMC Yachting to discover the elegance of the nautical world in all its splendor.
