EBI expands membership and outlines policy priorities at 2026 General Assembly

EBI (European Boating Industry) has used its 2026 General Assembly in Istanbul to send a clear message: collaboration across borders is becoming more important as the sector navigates sustainability, competitiveness and changing market conditions. Hosted by YATED (the Yacht and Boat Industry Association of Türkiye), the gathering brought together associations, companies and partners from across Europe to review progress, welcome new members and identify the priorities that will shape the industry’s next phase.

The last 12 months has seen six members join the organisation, including the Nordic cluster (compromising Finland, Sweden, Norway, Esthonia and Denmark) which joined as one. 

“The continued growth of our membership demonstrates the increasing importance of a strong and united voice for the recreational boating industry in Europe,” says Robert Marx, EBI’s president. “By bringing together associations, companies and partners from across the continent, EBI is strengthening its ability to advocate for policies that support competitiveness, innovation and sustainable growth.”

Istanbul highlights Türkiye’s growing role in boatbuilding

The organisation has recently help its general assembly in Türkiye. Marx says that’s “a country that plays an increasingly important role in European boatbuilding, manufacturing excellence and international trade.”

The event featured workshop sessions focused on developing of a European-wide approach to boater demographics studies and on best practices in advocacy. Members exchanged experiences and explored opportunities for greater collaboration to strengthen market intelligence, support evidence-based policymaking, and enhance the boating sector’s representation at national and European levels.

Shipyard visits showcase innovation and craftsmanship

Participants also visited Aiata Shipyard and Sirena Shipyard, to gain valuable insight into Türkiye’s boatbuilding industry and its contribution to innovation, craftsmanship and export growth within the European recreational boating sector.

One of EBI’s new members is Croatian Green Sail.

“We are excited to join EBI and to contribute to a network that is shaping the future of recreational boating in Europe,” says Ornela Krezic, Green Sail manager. “Over the years, we have seen how collaboration can drive meaningful change, and we are proud to join an organisation that brings together so many dedicated stakeholders from across Europe. We look forward to contributing to EBI’s mission and helping strengthen sustainability within the recreational boating sector.”

Green Sail is a sustainability initiative focused on promoting environmentally responsible practices in nautical tourism and boating. The organisation works with marinas, charter companies and tourism operators to develop practical sustainability solutions, deliver training and education programmes, and raise awareness of marine conservation.

Murat Bekiroğlu (YATED’s president) says it was a great pleasure to host the event in Istanbul – which “bridges Europe and Asia and has long served as a cultural link between civilisations. We were truly delighted to welcome the esteemed EBI family in Türkiye. The fact that this important meeting held in our country was extremely valuable for us in showcasing the strength and potential of our industry on the international stage.”