Set sail for the Interboot

Hoist the sails, start the engines, and full speed ahead: The international water sports exhibition is on the horizon, bringing together numerous exhibitors to showcase their products and innovations in the motorboat, sailing, and water sports sectors from September 23 to October 1, 2023, at the exhibition grounds in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Visitors can look forward to a diverse water sports program across six halls, the West Foyer, the outdoor area, the demo lake, and the Interboot harbor. In addition to exciting lectures and seminars, there will be opportunities for trial sailing on the exhibition center lake and many other activities to participate in. Sustainability is also a key topic this year. "There will be a Sustainability Trail," project manager Felix Klarmann revealed. "We want to bring out the various topics related to sustainability throughout all the different areas of the grounds. All participating booths will be clearly marked. Visitors can expect to see many ‘green’ products in the exhibition halls.” Additionally, the popular SUP & Grill Tour will set sail a couple of weeks before the event, making stops at various locations in the region.

From surfboards to family cruisers, from clothing and accessories to an action-packed program: The international water sports exhibition is preparing to embark and has its scopes trained on the latest watery trends. "The Interboot is a cornerstone for the industry, our event calendar, and the region," emphasized CEO Klaus Wellmann. But before the actual event arrives to showcase the full spectrum of water sports, the popular SUP & Grill Tour will commence its cruise through the Swabian Sea.

Phat beats and good vibes at the SUP & Grill Tour

As part of the SUP & Grill Tour, a floating pontoon will make various stops along the shores of Lake Constance, distributing free drinks and snacks to any thirsty or hungry SUP enthusiasts who paddle by. DJ Shorty will provide great music and good summer vibes. It will all kick off with the 1250th anniversary celebration in Langenargen at the Arguna festival shoreline on the last weekend of July. This will be followed by six more stops on the first three weekends of August and help to pass the time until the Interboot finally arrives. More information and the exact schedule can be found here: www.interboot.de/sup-n-grill

Get on board and win a big prize at the SUP Team Challenge

The SUP Team Challenge will also involve paddling, but it won’t be quite as relaxed as the SUP & Grill Tour. On October 1, it's all about paddling to the max. The two-person teams that complete the agility course in the SUP test pool in Hall A5 the fastest can look forward to a fantastic prize – namely, a paddle trip in paradise. "We're not revealing the destination just yet," said Felix Klarmann. "But it's worthwhile to get started with training." In the previous edition, the winners embarked on a week-long trip to the British Virgin Islands on a luxury catamaran with plenty of SUP boards on board. Anyone 18 years or older can participate. Participating two-person teams can already register at www.interboot.de/sup-team.

Get vacation tips at the charter and cruising consultation

Speaking of the Caribbean: Those seeking good recommendations for an unforgettable water trip should stop by the charter and cruising consultation. Our two experts Michael Amme and Jürgen Strassburger will provide detailed information on travel and charter options. Those interested can book an appointment in advance. Reservations will be available shortly at www.interboot.de/charterberatung.

Water sports action with the standing wave and SUPing in the test pool

Hall A5 will be dedicated to the world of fun sports. Here, action enthusiasts can not only purchase trendy water sports gear like wing foils but also test out some other toys on site. For example, during the Interboot Surf Days, those seeking an adrenaline rush can take a rental board and jump on the five-meter-wide wave to experience the feeling of the Atlantic. The SUP pool will offer a more leisurely experience. Anyone wanting to test their balance on the water can grab a board and paddle around the test pool. More information is available here: www.interboot.de/surfdays

Try sailing on the demo lake

At the demo lake, all manner of canoes, kayaks, and other water sports equipment will be waiting to be tried and tested. For those wanting to hoist the sails, there will be an opportunity for trial sailing in mini-boats to determine if their next sailing trip should take place on Lake Constance.

Sundowner on the water and vintage regatta at the Interboot harbor

The Interboot harbor is an integral part of the trade fair. A variety of boats will invite interested visitors to go for a test ride. Those who want to sail on glistening water into the sunset can enjoy the Sunset Cruising or Sunset Sailing options. On the two Interboot weekends, skippers with motorboats or sailing yachts will be available in the evenings to embark on the lake together with interested participants. Registrations for these activities will be possible through the Interboot Academy shortly. Additionally, this year on September 23, the Oldtimer Regatta organized by the Friedrichshafen Sailing Motorboat Club (SMCF) will take place again. For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, they can enjoy a delicious sundowner drink at the harbor and watch the sunset from land.

Experience the excitement of the Interboot Trophy

With the cooperation of the Württembergischer Yacht-Club (WYC), the internationally renowned Interboot Trophy will be held again this year. The race course is located directly in front of the Friedrichshafen promenade and will offer excellent visibility for the public. A "walk-through pit lane" in the WYC harbor will allow spectators to observe the sailors as they prepare for the race.

Learn from professionals at the Interboot Academy

The Interboot Academy 2023 will offer exciting workshops and seminars. Like-minded individuals can exchange experiences and tips and listen to experts sharing their practical and theoretical knowledge. Information about the seminars and workshops can be found here: www.interboot.de/academy

Practice driving with a boat trailer at the trailer training

Boat owners who need to transport and launch their boats using a trailer should have good command of their vehicle and be able to maneuver it properly. Those who still feel uncertain or simply want to practice can do so at the trailer training area in the outdoor area. Professionals will be available to provide expert tips and guidance in maneuvering with a trailer. Those interested in participating can book a training session in advance: www.interboot.de/trailertraining

Switzerland is back on board at Interboot

On Thursday, September 28, Interboot will once again focus on Switzerland with its "Swiss Day." Visitors from Switzerland will receive free admission to the trade fair on this day. But even on the other days of the event, it will be "Suisse@Interboot" in Hall B1. "For Swiss boat-builders, Interboot is one of the most important boat shows of the year," says Vinzenz Batt, managing director of the Swiss boat-builders’ association (SBV).

Lake Constance boat builders with a joint booth

The association of Lake Constance shipbuilders will be represented at a large joint booth. Interested individuals can learn about the boat-building profession, with organizations such as the Travemünde Vocational School represented and offering activities for potential apprentices.  Boat-building experts will be on hand to share their knowledge, and visitors can admire the beauty of maritime classics. Daily expert presentations on various topics related to the hobby that floats will take place at the lecture stage.

International Ocean Film Tour to showcase life on, in, and under the sea

For the ninth time, the International Ocean Film Tour will embark on a journey through Germany. On September 29, the tour will make a stop at the Interboot, taking the audience on a cinematic adventure into the world of the oceans with its collection of short films.  The program will include sports highlights and current reports on marine conservation, including films about a 17-year-old blind surfer from Munich, Gambian fishermen battling overfishing off the West African coast, and three activists dedicated to protecting the seas and their flora and fauna. All the featured stories aim to illustrate the importance of the world's oceans and support efforts to protect this endangered habitat.

Dive into the world of InterDive

The InterDive trade fair, dedicated to divers and snorkelers, will occupy an entire hall and will take place two days before Interboot (September 21 to 24, 2023).  Renowned retailers will offer visitors the opportunity to purchase diving and snorkeling equipment or receive advice on the latest trends. In addition to accessories such as swimsuits or oxygen tanks, there will also be a wealth of offers and tips from experts for the most beautiful diving spots worldwide. Visit www.inter-dive.de for more information.