Vancouver Boat Show 2026
The 2026 Vancouver International Boat Show, held January 14–18 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West and Granville Island, promises a dynamic showcase of marine innovation. With thousands of boats, accessories, and over 100 free seminars, it caters to both seasoned mariners and newcomers. Sailors can explore energy systems, rigging upgrades, and offshore safety gear, while families enjoy interactive exhibits and on-water demos. The venue shift from BC Place, due to FIFA preparations, brings scenic waterfront views and expanded access. From provisioning tips to technical workshops, the show blends education, culture, and commerce—making it a must-attend event for boating enthusiasts.
Vancouver Boat Show
Overview of the 2026 Show
Dates: January 14–18, 2026
Venues: Vancouver Convention Centre West (main exhibition) and Granville Island (on-water displays)
Reason for venue change: BC Place is closed for FIFA World Cup preparations
Seminars: Over 100 free sessions across four meeting rooms
Transportation: Shuttle buses will connect the two venues for easy access
Vancouver Boat Show
Cruising sailboat enthusiasts will find a wealth of resources at the 2026 Vancouver Boat Show. Seminars cover offshore safety, energy systems like lithium batteries and solar arrays, and weather routing for extended passages. Exhibitors showcase wind vanes, watermakers, and rigging upgrades tailored to bluewater cruising. Workshops offer hands-on learning in marine electronics, corrosion prevention, and provisioning strategies. Insurance experts provide guidance on international coverage and compliance. Granville Island’s on-water displays feature live demos of anchoring gear and sail handling systems. Whether refitting a classic or planning a circumnavigation, the show delivers practical insights and gear for serious cruising sailors.
Vancouver Boat Show
Anglers and fishermen will find plenty to explore at the 2026 Vancouver Boat Show. Exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge sonar systems, fishfinders, and trolling motors, alongside rugged fishing kayaks and sportfishing boats. Seminars cover tackle selection, electronic rigging, and sustainable fishing practices. Experts will present on regional fisheries, shellfish habitat restoration, and gear maintenance. Granville Island’s on-water displays include live demos of casting platforms, bait systems, and anchoring setups for fishing vessels. Whether you're a weekend angler or offshore sportfisher, the show offers hands-on gear trials, technical advice, and insider tips to elevate your fishing experience and operational efficiency.
Vancouver Boat Show
The 2026 Vancouver Boat Show will feature specialized seminars for sailboat enthusiasts covering rigging upgrades, sail trim optimization, and energy systems for long-distance cruising. Topics include lithium battery integration, solar panel setups, and wind generation tailored to sailboats. Experts will present on weather routing, anchoring strategies, and offshore safety gear. Attendees can join workshops on marine electronics, autopilot calibration, and corrosion prevention. There’s also a focus on insurance protocols and regulatory compliance for international sailing. These sessions are ideal for sailors preparing for extended voyages or upgrading older systems with modern, efficient solutions
Vancouver Boat Show
The 2026 Vancouver Boat Show will feature a variety of food options, with local vendors offering West Coast flavors, seafood specialties, and casual fare at both venues.
Visitors can enjoy food trucks and pop-up stalls at Granville Island, serving fresh fish tacos, chowders, and artisan sandwiches. The Vancouver Convention Centre will host indoor cafés and snack stations with coffee, baked goods, and grab-and-go meals. Expect regional favorites like smoked salmon, poutine, and vegetarian options. Culinary demos may highlight provisioning techniques and onboard cooking tips. Whether you're refueling between seminars or savoring local cuisine, the show offers tasty choices for every appetite.
Vancouver Boat Show
Whether you are new to boating or already an experienced boater, our boating experts can help you figure out the perfect boat to fit your lifestyle and budget. They can provide advice on everything from destinations and new activities to try, to boating courses, safety information, accessories, maintenance, docking tips, and much more. You can even get pick up a boat-shopping guide to use at the show, plus lots of free information, including magazines and DVDs to take home with you. Drop by the Discover Boating Centre and find out why life is better with a boat!
Finesse your sportfishing technique with this new series of seminars dedicated to sport fishing in BC! Topics range from deep sea fishing off the coast of Vancouver and Vancouver Island, to freshwater lake fishing, and fishing the rivers of BC. Visit the Vancouver Boat Show.
Plus, casting demos from top rod, reel and tackle manufacturers such as Sage, Normark, Shimano, Ryobi and Gibbs Delta. Meet BC Outdoors host Mike Mitchell , speak with the manufacturer reps, and demo the newest technology rod and reels in our very own casting pond located on the main floor of BC Place!
If you're a sailor, you'll find lots to love at this year's show! SailFest highlights everything sailing-related at the show – from products to services, schools and destinations. SailFest exhibitors are easy to find, too; just look for the SailFest flag.
And don't forget to see and board the largest sailboats in the show at the in-water venue at Granville Island! Free shuttle buses and water ferries run continuously between BC Place and the Granville Island Maritime Market and Marina, where sailboats are displayed in their natural habitat. The in-water venue closes daily at 5 p.m.
More great boat shows make a comeback. Keep up to date for the Vancouver Boat Show