LELYSTAD – The 2023 in-Water HISWA – the Netherlands’ flagship boat show (Aug. 30–Sept. 3) – is going for a record: As many as 412 boats and 250 exhibitors have registered, making for a sell-out event in this town in the heart of Holland.
The in-water show sees itself as Northern Europe’s “most important water sports exhibition.” Lelystad’s Bataviahaven offers a uniquely efficient stage for exhibitors and visitors: its semi-circular shape makes for short distances to exhibits, catering and boat suppliers.
The show is located on a large lake in the middle of the Netherlands, close to the German market, a key event for the Dutch boating sector.
The in-Water HISWA has grown in recent years, and this year it aims for a record in showing the quality of Dutch boat building in the sector to the unofficial superyacht starting length of 30m.
Big-name exhibitors include motor yacht builders Wajer Yachts, KM Yachtbuilders and Linssen Yachts. Saffier Yachts leads the pack of premier sailing yachts in every length imaginable. International brands include Princess Yachts and Lengers Yachts (representing the Sanlorenzo, Stratos, Prestige and Sacs brands) and Brunia Watersport, which will premier Greenway Marine’s G-Force 10, a 10m cabin motorboat.
The in-Water HISWA will be divided into different segments, each with its own products and services. The Boulevard will be reserved for large yachts, with large format tenders and sailing yachts. All Scandinavian motorboats can be found there. Major outboard brands such as Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Mercury have their pavilion.
There are also displays and demos of water sports and a ‘Funpark’ showing new forms of water sports. Furthermore, visitors will find various parts and services on the quay.
A vast area – twice as big as in 2022 — has been set aside for tender makers, a trendy boat format in a country of many rivers, creeks and lakes. The 2023 in-Water HISWA also reflects the market’s growing demand for sustainable boating. And the industry’s significant demand for qualified staff. On all show days, visitors can find out more about a career in water sports.
The in-Water HISWA will also name winners in different ‘boat of the year categories.
“ Never before have there been so many entries,” says Arjen Rahusen, the show’s director. “From the 30 boats that have applied, the jury will choose three boats per category and then select a winner.”
