Sri Lanka Sets Sail with the 9th International Boat Show & Conference

A global platform for marine innovation, lifestyle, and tourism

30th & 31st January and 1st February 2026, Sri Lanka will open its shores to the world with the Boat & Marine Show and Conference 2026, South Asia’s leading marine lifestyle and industry event. Hosted at the iconic Sail Lanka Charter, Port City Colombo, and open daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the 2026 edition is set to be the largest and most vibrant in the event’s history.

The Conference is organized by Sri Lanka Tourism in collaboration with the Chamber of Marine Industries Sri Lanka, while the Boat Show is organized in cooperation with the Chamber of Marine Industries Sri Lanka and managed by CDC Events (Pvt.) Ltd., with the support of the Ministries of Industry and Entrepreneurship, Foreign Affairs, Employment and Tourism, together with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). This collective backing reflects Sri Lanka’s strategic vision to emerge as a regional Centre for boating, yachting, and marine tourism, while strengthening the country’s position as a premier island destination.

A Regional Success Story — Since its inception in 2008, the Boat & Marine Show has evolved from a modest exhibition into South Asia’s foremost marine showcase, positioning boating as a lifestyle while attracting international buyers, investors, and enthusiasts. Successful editions held in 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2023 have paved the way for an expanded and more ambitious 2026 event.

What’s on Display — The 2026 show will present an impressive range of offerings, including boats, yachts, and shipbuilders from Sri Lanka and overseas; marine engines, navigation systems, repair solutions, and composite materials; diving operators, water sports providers, and eco- tourism ventures; yacht brokers, marinas, and charter services; and whale and dolphin watching operators. This blend of trade and lifestyle experiences ensures strong appeal to both industry professionals and the general public.

Global Participation — Delegations from India, Singapore, Maldives, South Korea, Belgium, Germany, Holland, the UK, Seychelles, and the Middle East are expected, providing exhibitors with direct access to global buyers and key decision-makers. Participants will include investors seeking joint ventures i marine industries; hotels, resorts, and tour operators; navy, coast guard, and port authorities; adventure clubs, yachting associations, and high-net-worth individuals.

marine industries; hotels, resorts, and tour operators; navy, coast guard, and port authorities; adventure clubs, yachting associations, and high-net-worth individuals.

Backed by Government, Powered by Industry — Recognized by the Sri Lankan government as a priority platform for export promotion, investment attraction, and tourism development, the show offers exhibitors enhanced credibility and exposure, while assuring buyers of a stable and investor-friendly environment.

Promoting Sri Lanka’s Marine and Nautical Tourism Heritage- Sri Lanka Tourism is keen to position the country as a leading marine and nautical tourism destination by highlighting its rich underwater treasures and unique ocean-based experiences. With vibrant coral reefs, historic shipwrecks, diverse marine biodiversity, and world-renowned whale and dolphin watching locations, Sri Lanka offers exceptional opportunities for diving, snorkeling, underwater exploration, and nautical leisure tourism. Through events such as the Boat & Marine Show 2026, Sri Lanka Tourism aims to promote these underwater attractions to international markets while encouraging sustainable marine tourism practices that protect and preserve the nation’s ocean heritage.

More Than a Boat Show — Boat & Marine Show 2026 goes beyond a conventional exhibition, celebrating marine lifestyle and culture while blending business networking with entertainment. It creates a dynamic space for trade, partnerships, and leisure in the heart of Colombo.

The opening day will feature a conference highlighting Sri Lanka’s vast nautical tourism potential and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. Industry experts will share insights to inform sustainable development and policy direction.

Boat & Marine Show 2026 is where commerce meets lifestyle—and where Sri Lanka confidently charts its course as South Asia’s marine gateway, truly The Emerging Nautical Jewel of the Indian Ocean.

Source - Ada Derana