From April 6 to 11, 2027, Marseille will host Marea Marseille – Le Grand Salon de la Mer, an unprecedented event dedicated to boating, nautical leisure, and maritime experiences. Organized by La Provence and CMA Media, this event aims to bring together professionals, enthusiasts, and the general public while strengthening Marseille’s maritime influence in the Mediterranean. With over 45,000 expected visitors, 200 exhibiting brands, 300 boats on display, and 30,000 m² of exhibition space, Marea Marseille is set to become a key event in the nautical sector.
Key Takeaways
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | April 6–11, 2027 |
| Location | Esplanade J4, Marseille (overlooking the Mediterranean) |
| Expected Visitors | 45,000+ |
| Exhibiting Brands | 200+ |
| Boats on Display | 300+ (on land and afloat) |
| Exhibition Area | 30,000 m² |
| Organizers | La Provence and CMA Media (CMA CGM Group) |
| Target Audience | Professionals, boating enthusiasts, and the general public |
Why Marseille?
Marseille, a millennium-old port city and the birthplace of diving, is the natural choice for an event of this scale. The city offers:
- An exceptional maritime heritage, dating back to antiquity (founded by the Greeks in 600 BC).
- The Old Port (Vieux-Port), a historic symbol and central hub, now dedicated to leisure boating.
- A strategic location in the Mediterranean, at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
- A dynamic nautical industry, with numerous marinas, shipyards, and key players in the market.
Marseille also hosts Euromaritime, a leading trade fair for the maritime industry, further confirming its role as a hub for innovation and business in the sector .
What to Expect at Marea Marseille 2027
1. Boating and Yachting
- Boat exhibitions: A wide range of vessels, from sailboats to luxury yachts, displayed both on land and in the water.
- Sea trials: Opportunities for visitors to test boats in real conditions.
- Innovations: Discover the latest nautical technologies and equipment.
2. Nautical Leisure Activities
- Diving: Workshops and demonstrations to explore the underwater world.
- Fishing: Presentation of recreational fishing gear and techniques.
- Water sports: Windsurfing, paddleboarding, and other activities for all ages.
- Sailing: Initiations and guided sessions for beginners and experienced sailors.
3. Maritime Destinations
- A dedicated village promoting Mediterranean and global maritime destinations.
- Travel inspiration: Information on charters, cruises, and unique coastal experiences.
- Cultural exchanges: Meet representatives from tourist boards and maritime organizations.
4. Experiences and Conferences
- Workshops: Hands-on sessions to learn new skills (navigation, maintenance, etc.).
- Conferences: Discussions on industry trends, sustainability, and the future of yachting.
- Example topics: The rise of hybrid and electric boats, sustainable tourism, and digitalization in yachting.
- Networking: Opportunities for professionals to connect and collaborate.
A New Chapter After Les Nauticales
Marea Marseille builds on the success of Les Nauticales, a historic boat show previously held in La Ciotat and organized by La Provence for five years. The move to Marseille marks an ambitious evolution:
- New location: The Esplanade J4, in the heart of Marseille, offers a more central and accessible setting.
- Expanded format: Beyond traditional boat exhibitions, Marea Marseille integrates leisure, tourism, and education to appeal to a broader audience.
- Ambitious goals: With 300 boats on display (compared to 200+ at Les Nauticales), the event aims to set a new benchmark for Mediterranean boat shows.
“It’s only natural that Marseille should host a major event dedicated to the sea and boating. With its history, location, and dynamism, the city has all the assets to support an event of this scale. And who better than La Provence and CMA Media, deeply rooted in the region, to develop and promote it?”
— Olivier Biscaye, Director-General and Editor-in-Chief of La Provence
The Mediterranean Yachting Market in 2027
Marea Marseille arrives at a pivotal time for the Mediterranean yachting industry:
- Growth: The Mediterranean remains the world’s top charter destination, with 96% of summer charters taking place in the region in 2025.
- Trends:
- Experience-driven charters: Guests seek personalized itineraries focusing on culture, gastronomy, and wellness.
- Sustainability: Demand for eco-friendly yachts and green technologies is rising, with the hybrid boat market valued at $1.77 billion in 2023, projected to reach $4.01 billion by 2030 .
- Technological innovation: Smart yachts equipped with automation, AI, and digital platforms are becoming the norm.
- Challenges: Regulatory changes and environmental concerns are pushing the industry toward higher standards in safety and sustainability.
Practical Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Esplanade J4, Marseille (outdoor and indoor spaces) |
| Opening Hours | To be confirmed (typically 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM) |
| Ticket Prices | To be confirmed (early-bird discounts expected) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly, family-friendly areas |
| Parking | Paid parking nearby; public transport recommended |
| Website | (coming soon) |
| Contact |
Why Attend?
✅ For Professionals: A platform to network, showcase products, and discover industry trends.
✅ For Enthusiasts: A chance to explore the latest boats, gear, and destinations.
✅ For Families: Interactive activities and educational workshops for all ages.
✅ For Travelers: Inspiration for your next maritime adventure.
Conclusion
Marea Marseille 2027 is more than just a boat show—it’s a celebration of the sea, a showcase of innovation, and a gathering place for the maritime community. By combining tradition with modernity, Marseille is set to offer an unforgettable experience for everyone passionate about the ocean.