Northern Europe’s Largest Boat Show Returns – Over 400 Boats on Display
The Helsinki International Boat Show, Vene 25 Båt, will take place from February 7 to 16, 2025, at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. This is the largest boating event in Northern Europe, featuring several innovations and, most importantly, an increased number of motorboats and sailboats. The fishing section has also expanded its offerings.
Approximately 85% of the boats at Vene 25 Båt are Finnish, and the event will showcase several new boat models. Finnish boat manufacturing is highly regarded internationally, known for its high-quality craftsmanship. While the boat show is a major national event, it also attracts visitors from abroad. Vene Båt is the only event where the entire boating spectrum is presented under one roof—from new motorboats to classics, sailing, equipment, and services such as clubs, marina services, and boat maintenance. Fishing and water activities are also strongly featured.
This year, the exhibition will showcase five large sailboats: Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 and Beneteau Oceanis 40.1, Nautor ClubSwan 43, Hanse 410, and X-Yachts X4.9 MkII. There will be over 400 motorboats on display, including dozens of new models such as:
- Silver Hawk SCX & BRX, a fully aluminum open boat
- AMT 150 R, a modern, fully fiberglass console boat for cottage use
- Yamarin Cross 55 BR, available in standard and fishing versions
- Aquador 400 HT, representing the latest generation of travel boats
- Saxdor 340 GTWA, a versatile adventure boat
- Arronet Arrofoil 25 Cabin, a fuel-efficient hydrofoil boat
- XO EXPLR 44, a modern “mini superyacht”
The largest and most expensive boat at the fair this year is the Sunseeker Manhattan 55, which is 17 meters long, nearly 5 meters wide, and weighs 27 tons.
The Classic Boats section (MYS) will feature three restored Riva boats, and the wooden boat builders’ section will showcase an electric boat. Also on display will be rower Jari Saario’s new rowing boat, which he plans to use at the end of 2025 to row around Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America and continue to Cape Town, South Africa. This rowing project is called Horn to Hope, and Saario will present the boat daily at his booth.
“Last year, we received feedback that there weren’t enough smaller boats at the fair. This year, we have increased their presence, along with five large sailboats. The boat show is designed for both experienced boaters and those dreaming of boating. Our message is clear: boating is a fantastic social way to spend time in nature. It’s not difficult, nor does it have to be expensive—through boating clubs, you can go boating even without owning a boat. This year, 28 boating clubs will be present at the Club Square to share information and inspire new enthusiasts. Additionally, the Start Boating program will take place on Sunday, February 9,” says Kalle Mäkelä, Sales Manager at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. “Everyone is sure to find a boat that suits them at the fair.”
New Features at the Boat Show
A new Archipelago Marinas section will showcase guest harbors. In addition to selecting the Best Open Boat, Travel/Utility Boat, and Motorboat, this year’s fair will also award Best Sailboat and Best Fishing Boat.
For the first time, three boats will compete in the New Life for a Boat contest at Boat Master’s Dock, where nearly unusable boats have been restored into functional ones. The exhibition will also feature a display of innovative boat accessories that have won DAME Design Awards.
The fishing section has expanded, featuring more fishing boats and a stronger emphasis on fly fishing alongside casting and trolling.
Programs and Activities
The fair includes five program stages, along with events at the Finnish Sailing and Boating Federation’s booth.
- Sailing Harbor: Stories from sailing adventures, themed days, and discussions about the Baltic Sea
- Boat Master’s Dock: Boat restoration and maintenance tips
- Total Boat Show: New boats, travel destinations, and boating safety
- Fishing Area (Alutroll-Tohatsu Stage): Fishing presentations
- Wave Area Pool: Activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing demonstrations
Additional attractions include a fly-casting area and a diving pool.
The Fair Marks the Start of the Boating Season
The Helsinki International Boat Show, Vene 25 Båt, will be held February 7–16, 2025, at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. Organized by the Finnish Marine Industries Federation Finnboat, it is the largest boating event in Northern Europe. The event’s sustainability partner for 2025 is the John Nurminen Foundation.
For the first time, the Helsinki Outdoor Fair will take place simultaneously during the first weekend (February 7–9, 2025).
Opening Hours & Ticket Information
- Friday, Feb 7: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday–Sunday, Feb 8–9: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday–Friday, Feb 10–14: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday–Sunday, Feb 15–16: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Buy tickets in advance at a discounted price: shop.messukeskus.com
