A Grand Expansion to the City Port and Fishing Harbour
To accommodate growing interest, the Biograd Boat Show expanded this year to include both the City Port and the Fishing Harbour. Through collaboration with local authorities, this thoughtful extension not only allowed for more exhibitors but also integrated the show more deeply into the heart of Biograd. A lively promenade area, open to the public free of charge, connected the Fishing Harbour with Marina Kornat West, inviting attendees to experience the town’s bustling ambiance alongside the boat show.
This expansion brought with it a mix of impressive luxury motor yachts, lifestyle exhibits, and a fleet of over 500 vessels, all meticulously displayed. With more than 450 exhibitors from around the world, Biograd reaffirmed its status as a prime destination for yachting enthusiasts and industry leaders alike. Against the backdrop of the sparkling Adriatic, the addition of 20 luxury automobile models only added to the show’s opulence, providing a seamless blend of lifestyle and seafaring sophistication.
World-Class Yachts and Notable Debuts
The show’s heart, of course, was the stunning display of yachts and sailboats, including brands recognised globally for innovation and excellence. Prominent among these was Hanse Yachts, which presented a collection of its most celebrated models—the Hanse 410, 460, and 510—each a testament to sleek German engineering and luxurious design. Known for their ease of handling and spacious layouts, Hanse Yachts has mastered the balance between agile performance and on-board luxury, making their fleet a highlight of the show.
Grand Soleil, the iconic Italian yacht brand, was also a significant presence, showcasing the Grand Soleil 52 Long Cruise, a model with a reputation for elegance and functionality. Presented by Croatian dealer NCP Charter, this yacht offered showgoers an immersive glimpse into the Italian brand’s dedication to liveable luxury, brought to life in the Adriatic’s crystal-clear waters.
Perhaps the most exciting debut of the event was Groupe Beneteau’s Monomaran, a groundbreaking concept vessel featuring solar panels and fully electric propulsion. Designed to sleep eight and boasting a visionary layout, this concept yacht represents the future of sustainable cruising, perfectly suited to the archipelago of closely spaced islands that characterises the Biograd area. Groupe Beneteau’s choice of Biograd for this world debut speaks to Croatia’s growing influence as a yachting destination and its alignment with the latest in green marine technology.
More than Boating: The Luxury and Adventure Travel Show
A notable addition to this year’s event was the Croatia Luxury and Adventure Travel Show, located in Hall D. This new feature gave visitors a chance to discover high-end travel experiences beyond the boating sphere, including tailored adventure packages and unique escapes that pair perfectly with a yachting lifestyle. The Luxury and Adventure Travel Show provided an elevated experience for attendees, offering fresh inspiration for luxurious excursions both on land and at sea.
Hall E also saw significant expansion, with more exhibit space allocated to luxury products, creating an atmosphere that felt as much like a boutique show for refined lifestyle choices as it did a gathering of nautical icons.
Glamour on Display: Entertainment and Social Events
Adding to the show’s vibrant atmosphere were the many entertainment events, infusing the gathering with the flair and sophistication of an international gala. At the heart of the social scene was the Duchess Fashion Show at City Port, where fashion lovers gathered to see the latest trends in high-end clothing. This was complemented by the Miss World – Zadar County Pageant, where seven stunning contestants competed for a chance to represent their region on the international stage.
As the sun set, the evening transformed with live music, creating a lively on-site program that continued into the early hours. Concerts by the Disco Magic Band and Soul Fingers had visitors dancing by the water’s edge, while the Orion Fireworks display lit up the Adriatic sky in spectacular style. These elements of celebration and community drew visitors to both the showgrounds and Biograd town center, providing a true taste of Croatian hospitality.
A Nautical Hub for Central Europe
The Biograd Boat Show attracts visitors from across Central Europe, from yacht owners and boating enthusiasts to luxury seekers. Over 1,500 charter yachts and more than 100 meticulously displayed used boats, available for direct viewing and purchase, made this year’s show an enticing marketplace as well as a spectacle. The rigorously maintained standards in displaying used boats reflect the professionalism of the event and the care for quality that underpins the Biograd Boat Show.
The show’s appeal extends far beyond the docks and exhibitions. Each sunset marked a shift from the day’s festivities to an engaging evening program, with countless dining options and nightlife offerings within walking distance. Known as the “Boat Show Experience,” this immersion into local life is a significant part of the show’s ongoing success. For locals and international visitors alike, the event felt like an annual festival—a time to connect, celebrate, and revel in the magic of yachting.
The Legacy of Biograd na Moru
Biograd na Moru’s position on the Adriatic coast, facing the picturesque island of Pašman, is a fitting location for Croatia’s largest boat show. With a rich history dating back to its days as a capital of the medieval Kingdom of Croatia, Biograd seamlessly blends history and modernity, bringing together heritage, yachting, and a contemporary luxury experience. As the city celebrates its maritime legacy with each passing year, the Biograd Boat Show only continues to grow in popularity, prestige, and impact.
A Truly Unforgettable Event
The 26th Biograd Boat Show was a truly unforgettable event, where the beauty of the Adriatic, Croatia’s growing prominence in luxury yachting, and a rich cultural tapestry combined to create an unparalleled experience. For boat enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike, Biograd offered more than just a display of the latest yachts and nautical technology—it delivered a celebration of sophistication, community, and the Croatian spirit. As Croatia’s largest boat show, Biograd’s appeal is undeniable, and with each year, it solidifies its role as a world-class destination for the maritime industry.
