The Helsinki International Boat Show, Vene 25 Båt, offers a remarkable showcase of innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless boatbuilding. This event, a staple in Northern Europe’s boating calendar, highlights new models, classic vessels, and the artistry of boatbuilders. Each year, the show recognizes exceptional boats through awards such as Open Boat of the Show, Weekender/Commuter of the Show, and Cabin Cruiser of the Show. For the first time, a Fishing Boat of the Show category and a contest titled “A New Life for the Boat” will also spotlight excellence and creativity.
“The number of boats at the event is still uncertain as we finalize things, but it’s likely we’ll surpass last year’s tally of 400,” notes Kalle Mäkelä, Sales Manager at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. “This year, we’ve seen exhibitors expanding their booths and showcasing a broader range, from affordable models to large sailing vessels. We’re also witnessing a surge in electric outboard motors, which reflects shifting preferences in the industry.”
Vene 25 Båt promises an impressive range of boats catering to all kinds of enthusiasts. Exciting new models for 2025 include the AMT 150 R, Quarken 35 Sport Tourer, Saxdor 340 GTWA, Silver Condor Cabin, XO EXPLR 44, and many more. Additionally, Finland will see the debut of several internationally acclaimed designs, such as the Boston Whaler 250 Outrage, Anytec 860 T, and Virtue V10 Cabin.
The show celebrates Finnish boatbuilding excellence with contributions from renowned brands like Axopar, Bella, Silver, Yamarin, and Sargo. Notably, the most extravagant motorboat on display, the British-built Sunseeker Manhattan 55, demonstrates luxury at its peak. The Sailing Harbor section complements this with large sailing boats, including the Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 and X-Yachts X4.9 MkII, while the Finnish Sailing and Boating Federation showcases high-performance racing vessels.
Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated fishing boat area, featuring fully equipped models such as the Alba 460, Vizion 470, and Lund 2075 Pro-V Sporty.
For the 26th year, a jury of boating journalists from Finland, Norway, and Sweden will honor standout designs. Awards will be given in categories like Open Boat, Weekender/Commuter, and Cabin Cruiser of the Show, with selections emphasizing innovation, functionality, and design ingenuity. Winners will be announced on February 12, 2025.
This year, the Fishing Boat of the Show award debuts alongside a public vote, with the winning fishing boat revealed on February 15. Adding to the excitement, the “A New Life for the Boat” competition highlights restored vessels like the Marino Mustang and Tornado, with results announced the same day.
The Wooden Boat Builders Association will present an inspiring display of handcrafted and restored wooden boats. The Riva Super Florida, a 60-year-old icon, has been beautifully restored to its former glory, while the modern Kaarna 30 introduces an electric wooden boat, combining tradition with sustainability. Other highlights include Saimaan Puuvene’s Wäinö and Nordic Crafts’ meticulously crafted Elfyn.
Visitors can also enter a raffle to win the Sommarvik, a rowing boat inspired by a 1940s design. Built by Båtbyggeri R. Tuovinen, this piece of maritime heritage is valued at €7,000.
The Mahogany Yachting Society’s booth will shine with three rare Riva boats, including a Super Florida and an Ariston model, both representing the golden era of Italian boatbuilding. These classics sit alongside Finnish masterpieces like the King Salmon, a once-derelict vessel now transformed through expert craftsmanship. Photographs documenting its restoration journey will be on display.
The Helsinki International Boat Show runs from February 7–16, 2025, at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. Organized by the Finnish Boating Industry Federation, Finnboat ry, this is Northern Europe’s largest boat show. The John Nurminen Foundation joins as the sustainability partner for 2025. Visitors can also explore the inaugural Helsinki Outdoor & Hunting Fair, taking place during the show’s first weekend.
