Grand Pavois 2026 introduces dedicated area for first-time boaters

Grand Pavois La Rochelle 2026 will introduce a new feature aimed at people considering boating for the first time. The Start Boating area will debut at the 54th edition of the French in-water boat show (running 22 to 27 September 2026), alongside the recently announced Boat Trip Experience Area, where visitors can experience being on the water.

According to show organiser Grand Pavois Organisation, the new area is designed to help visitors understand the different ways to get into boating, whether through ownership or other forms of access, and offer information to address some of the factors that can discourage people from buying or regularly using a boat.

A selection of boats priced below €35,000 (£30,100), including VAT – the maximum price for vessels displayed in this area – will be exhibited. They will be shown ashore alongside pontoons to recreate a marina setting.

Throughout the show, visitors will also find information on:

• Boats available at lower purchase prices
• Buying a boat compared with purchasing a car, caravan or motorhome
• Training and onboarding support
• Navigation technology designed to make boating easier
• Financing and insurance options
• Opportunities to learn boating skills

Different routes into boating

The exhibition will also highlight a range of ways to access boating, including traditional ownership, co-ownership schemes, shared ownership programmes, lease-to-own options, boat clubs and charter management solutions.

Organisers say these options are intended to suit different budgets and levels of boat use, whether visitors are looking to own a boat or simply use one regularly.

Practical guidance for visitors

Visitors will be able to access information on:

• Budget estimates
• Insurance
• Marina berths
• Training opportunities
• Advice on different routes into boating

The organisers say the area is intended to help visitors better understand the practical considerations involved in buying or accessing a boat.

It will also bring together organisations that can provide information on berth availability and storage. These include marinas, dry-stack storage facilities, mooring operators and storage providers.

Boatbuilders, training organisations, boat clubs, finance specialists, insurers and service providers are expected to take part.

Anaïs Lheureux, general manager of Grand Pavois La Rochelle, says: “The boating industry must continue moving forward and adapting to changing expectations. Grand Pavois La Rochelle has a responsibility to demonstrate that boating is not an unattainable dream.

“This new area is designed to become a genuine gateway to boating, helping visitors overcome misconceptions while providing practical guidance and support. Boating is evolving, and as an international boat show, we must evolve with it. ‘Start Boating’ on land is the perfect complement to our new ‘Boat Trip Experience Area’ area afloat.”