As is only appropriate for the global hub of sophisticated seafaring, Dubai International Boat Show is the biggest event of its kind in the region, proudly showcasing a wide range of luxurious experiences. Taking place between March 9 and 13, this year’s edition is shaping up to be the biggest and most impressive yet, dropping anchor in the breathtaking surrounds of the new Dubai Harbour.

From mega yachts to mega dining indulgences, brand new product launches to exclusive boat tours, spectacular sundowner spots, supercar exhibits, captivating live entertainment performances and diving activations — whatever it is that floats your boat, you’ll likely find it at the Dubai International Boat Show.

These are our top nine reasons why you should consider getting on board.

VIP yacht tours

Moored and ready to tour, you’ll be able to sign up for exclusive access to a collection of floating palaces that will be on show during the festival. Confirmed A-List attendees from the world of high-end maritime construction include Feadship, Princess, Majesty, Nomad, Cranchi, Lurssen, and San Lorenzo.

There’s an Oyster & Bubbles night at the VIP lounge by Tanisqh

Enjoy a true taste of the high life with your invitation to this salubrious soiree. Gastronomic jewels of the ocean will be served alongside premium bubbles, all against a backdrop of unrestrained opulence.

Sundowners at the Nikki Beach pop-up

As one of Dubai’s most beloved shoreline hangouts, Nikki Beach is no stranger to the circles of high society — and they’ve carved out their own space for a Dubai Harbour pop-up during the boat show. With views of pale marina hues, and oceanic blues, it’s hard to picture a finer spot for sunset hour sips.

Big world premieres

Every year Dubai International Boat Show provides the stage for some huge industry unveils. Amongst the confirmed highlights, this year we can look forward to first looks at a sustainable luxury eco yacht, the Sunreef Eco line 80; revolutionary portable diving fin tech from Exco; a special seven to nine seater submersible showcase from Triton; an exclusive look at Seabubbles, a flying boat that offers zero wave, zero noise and zero emission technology; and Faro Boats, the first fully autonomous electric boat.

High rollers only

It wouldn’t be a proper Dubai event without a generous sprinkling of elite automotive engineering, and most of them will be in one place — the Supercar Promenade. And because it’s Dubai, some of these cars will be exceptionally rare, with models including the Lamborghini Veneno – and one of only three McLaren Elvas in the world. It also happens to be hosting an insider’s guide to cigar making.

Time for something completely different

Master craftsmanship more your thing? This year at the boat show, there’s an opportunity to get some expert insight into the world of watchmaking, with the supreme horologists of luxury timepiece brand, Panerai.

It’s a watersports paradise

Test drive the latest ‘nauti’ innovations at the show’s dedicated Watersports Paradise zone, with privileged access to a range of new ways to have fun on the water.

You can dive into the unknown

The Dubai International Boat Show also has a reputation for inspiring divers. Within the festival, the Dive MENA Expo offers exciting talks and a special Dive Pool where you can sample the latest kit and upgrade your scuba skills.

Addressed to impress

We’re left with zero doubt over the boat show’s potential to impress, which makes it the perfect place to entertain those VIP clients. You can speak to the organisers by dropping them an email on Dubai.Boatshow@dwtc.com, to find out which packages would work for you.

Dubai Harbour, March 9 to 13, entry is free for divers (with a valid license), captains and boat owners, tickets for other individuals start at Dhs35. boatshowdubai.com

Images: Provided

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