LELYSTAD – After two COVID gap years, the 2022 edition of the weeklong HISWA-in-Water boat show opens in this central Dutch town August 31. Organizers are casting the net wider deploying a new layout and show ideas.
The COVID pandemic led to the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 events. Arjen Rahusen, the show’s director, said his organization quickly returned registration fees to would-be participants in those years, which did much to prevent a solid souring of relations.
He said there is much enthusiasm in the Dutch industry for the August 31-September 4 show.“Exhibitors display a clear need to speak face-to-face with the public again,” he tells this newsletter.
Lelystad’s Bataviahaven is a gift to boat show visitors. Its spectacular circular layout, facing a vast lake in the heart of Holland, means all exhibits are within a short walking distance.
New in 2022: extra space for larger, pricier boats that boast the ‘Dutch-made’ label. “In the Netherlands, we build beautiful boats,” says Rahusen. “We can be proud of that craftsmanship. It’s cool to shine a light on that at this year’s show.”
Numerous activities are planned, ranging from lectures and performances to demonstrations and trial runs. Boat brands will be grouped by segment: sailing yachts, motor cruisers, tenders, multihulls, houseboats, electric boats, etcetera.
“Also new this year is that companies are presenting themselves more,” says Alex Hoeve, the HISWA-in-Water exhibition manager. “There is a shift from product to more focus on the company, a dealership or a shipyard,” he says. Outboard motor manufacturers, for instance, will present themselves and their dealers in pavilions, which will also feature a variety of boats.
The 2022 show will also highlight work opportunities to young visitors as the Dutch sector faces a shortage of well-trained professionals.
Quay-side suppliers will line the in-water boat displays. The entrance hall has been extended to make room for exhibitors.
The In-water HISWA’s opening hours: 10 AM-6 PM. On Friday, 10 AM – 8 PM.
