LELYSTAD—The 39th edition of the In-Water HISWA Boat Show here was a sun-drenched, record-breaking event that attracted more visitors than the 2023 gate of 30,000. Show Director Arjen Rahusen put it this way: “We had more visitors than ever, exhibitors from a record number of countries and a charming, festive atmosphere. It could hardly be otherwise with beautiful weather and boats in such a perfect place.”
Exhibitors were delighted. Hans van Veen of Vedette Jachtbouw: “On the last day, we sold a new Vedette, and that is ultimately why we are here. At first, I was not very happy with the location on the boulevard, but I changed my mind. It was great!”
Vanquish Yachts made its maiden visit to the In-Water HISWA. Thijmen Bolle was happy that the brand – which is prominent in the United States – now also has name recognition in its home market.
“Now that we focus more on Europe, it is important that our custom-built boats are also appreciated in our own country. That certainly happened here. We had no shortage of attention, and it generated several great leads.”
Jack Verbeek of Van den Hoven Jachtbouw was also enthusiastic about the show. “I can’t think of anything negative. The fair was well attended, we had beautiful weather, and the organization was top-notch. After the fair, we will still be busy processing information requests and trial runs.”
The Boat of the Year awards were presented on the fair’s eve. The Sailing Yacht of the Year was the Xc47 from X-Yachts. In the motorboat category, the Northman 1050 Trawler Electric won. The Van Baerdt Docker e65 received the award in the tenders category. There was also a lifetime achievement award for Hans Webbink of Steeler Yachts, and the Startup Award went to Santos Boats.
During the fair, the Hiswa-in-Water organization agreed to keep the boat show in Lelystad’s Bataviahaven for five years. The 40th edition will take place Sept. 3 to 7, 2025.
www.hiswatewater.nl
