Stages, innovations & networking
Today’s global leisure marine industry is a complex ecosystem which is experiencing unprecedented change, and with that, even greater market opportunities. Knowing how to best navigate this change, whilst capitalising on the wealth of potential, is why investing time at Metstrade’s stages and knowledge hubs is more important than ever.
Discover the full programme below to see how you can maximise your time at this year’s event.
Stages
Metstrade Stage
Located at the heart of the show in Hall 13, the Metstrade Stage offers a collaborative hub for attendees to find solutions to the most pressing topics in the leisure marine sector.
In partnership with the industry
Throughout the show, an impressive array of insightful panel discussions will take place hosted by our knowledgeable partners, including the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and the European Boating Industry (EBI), as well as other partners.
This year’s programme will offer invaluable insights into the evolving economic, regulatory and environmental factors shaping the future of the leisure marine industry, as well as additional sessions offering attendees insights into human-centered ship design, AI’s role in design and operations, crew training, optimising vessels for operators, composite materials and so much more.
Superyacht stage
Metstrade 2026 has a prominent agenda for superyachts to support and enhance this growth and inspire the wider leisure marine industry with innovations and learnings from this segment.
With the launch of a dedicated Superyacht stage, Metstrade will be hosting a range of sector-specific talks and panel discussions, offering insight into the forces propelling growth in the superyacht sector The Superyacht stage will showcase the latest technologies and approaches shaping the future of superyacht design, innovation, and operations.
In collaboration with Superyacht Times, a dynamic newsroom will be created, spotlighting the latest innovations from the show floor. The collaboration will also deliver a daily podcast and end-of-day drinks after each session on the stage.
North America Stage
Now located in Hall 12, a dedicated North America Stage offers a focused programme on US & Canadian market trends, policy updates and certification. Co-hosted by IBEX, NMMA, and Soundings Trade Only, it features "Visionaries and Vino" dockside chats, expert-led sessions on standards and certification, and discussions on global trade, consumer trends, and innovation.
As well as these sessions, visitors can learn from each other as collaboration and community is a key element of the Metstrade experience. Meet with exhibitors and attendees to share knowledge of respective markets, discuss trends, and connect to thrive.
Foiling stage
In partnership with The Foiling Organisation, nine sessions will be delivered at a dedicated stage within the Foiling Technology Zone. The sessions cover the future of foiling design, the market for future foiling boats, bringing foiling to a wider market, sustainability, and other sessions about the future and adoption of this technology.
Networking
Women in the Marine Industry International Breakfast
In partnership with British Marine, Soundings Trade Only, Marine Industry News and Metstrade, The Women in the Marine Industry International Breakfast offers a vibrant mix of industry insight, lived experiences and fresh perspectives, brought to life by a stellar panel of female leaders and changemakers from across the global marine industry. It offers an informal and welcoming atmosphere where marine professionals can connect, share experiences, and build valuable relationships.
With breakfast and refreshments provided, guests are encouraged to arrive early and make the most of this unique opportunity to start their show day.
Metstrade Young Professionals Club
This year, the Young Professionals Club has been expanded to better serve and inspire the next generation of talent.
Join marine industry talents under 40 and expand your network in the Young Professionals Club. It provides ongoing opportunities to unlock potential and make meaningful connections and lasting friendships through the Metstrade Young Professionals Club (YPC) LinkedIn group.
Leading figures in the industry will visit the Young Professionals Club to offer advice and connection opportunities every day at 11:00. Meet with these VIP guests:
· Tue 18 Nov – Cheryl Brown, CEO of Le Boat
· Wed 19 Nov – Henk de Vries, Former CEO of Feadship
· Thur 20 Nov - Norbert Leifeld, CEO of Bavaria Yachts
Innovations
Metstrade Startups & Superyacht Startups
Metstrade is open to everyone, and this year, startups have a bigger voice with two dedicated areas – one for the recreational boating market and another for the superyacht sector. Startups will have the chance to present innovations with content sessions on the Metstrade Stage and a live pitching event. This is a unique opportunity for visitors and exhibitors to see the next best thing and to also be inspired to innovate and adapt.
Boat Builder Awards
The Boat Builder Awards have relocated back to RAI Amsterdam to make the ceremony more accessible and to foster informal networking among attendees. This is one of the biggest celebrations of boat building globally and a central part of Metstrade. The Boat Builder Awards will be held at the new ‘Harbour 8’ purpose-built hospitality and event space.
About DAME Design Awards
Now in its 34th year, the DAME Design Awards are the pinnacle of marine equipment design excellence. Recognised globally, they set the benchmark for innovation, functionality, and aesthetic appeal within the leisure marine industry. All nominated products will be exhibited in Hall 13 near the Metstrade Stage and the winners will be announced during Metstrade’s Metstrade Official Opening prior to the first day of the show on Tuesday 18 November.
As part of our focus on sustainability and the environment, entry fees for the awards will be donated to the Ocean Conservation Trust.
Superyacht Sustainability Route
This year’s Metstrade Superyacht Sustainability Route powered by Water Revolution Foundation is initiated to kick-off a growing development for the years to come, guiding decision makers through the show among sustainable solutions that were verified through Water Revolution’s stringent life cycle verification assessment. These solutions are readily available for new and existing yachts to reduce their environmental impact. These verified solutions will get an extra and well-deserved spotlight during the show, leading the way to lower environmental impact of yachts in their build, operational and/or refit phases throughout their life cycle.
Next Generation Propulsion Showcase
Growing demand for environmentally responsible engines and fuelling is increasingly important in the leisure marine market. At Metstrade 2026, the next generation zone will present trailblazing companies that are delivering practical solutions to reduce their environmental impact across the sector.
These innovations are redefining what is possible for the next generation of propulsion and marine solutions. From electric and hybrid engines to fuel alternatives and zero emission solutions, the next generation propulsion showcase will offer a wealth of solutions to make propulsion greener.
Sustainable Innovation Hub
The Water Revolution Foundation is revolutionising impactful ocean preservation and sustainable practices, while the Sustainable Innovation Hub is turning waste into valuable resources through reusing, repurposing, and recycling initiatives.
Royal3D is pushing the limits of 3D printing by transforming recycled and recyclable plastics collected straight from the environment, backed by rigorous life cycle assessments proving their environmental impact. Meanwhile, IEMA offers environmental management expertise to help businesses meet sustainability targets responsibly and effectively.
The Sustainable Innovation Hub provides the inspiration to act on sustainability goals.
Marine Impact Lab
The Marine Impact Lab is an immersive one-day workshop designed to fast-track sustainability across the leisure marine industry, supported by Metstrade, ICOMIA, World Sailing, Northern Lights Composites, The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta and 11th Hour Racing. Taking place on Monday 17 November, participants will be equipped with practical tools, strategic insights, and hands-on experience, driving measurable change towards a more sustainable future for the marine sector.
Women in Nautica
Women in Nautica champions diversity in the leisure marine industry. Taking place on Wednesday 19 November, this dynamic event fosters connections, showcases female leadership, and explores opportunities shaped by technology - celebrating women's contributions and continuing to drive progress across the sector.
KNVTS
The Royal Netherlands Society of Marine Technicians (KNVTS) plays a vital role in promoting knowledge exchange and innovation within the maritime sector. On Wednesday 19 November, KNVTS will bring together engineers, designers, and technical professionals to highlight cutting-edge developments in shipbuilding and technology. This includes expert-led sessions and panel discussions focused on the latest trends, technical challenges, and sustainable solutions in the industry. Their presence creates a valuable platform for networking, collaboration, and inspiration - especially for young professionals and future engineers.
The Superyacht Times Party
The annual Superyacht Times Party will take place on Wednesday 19 November 2025. The event will once again be hosted at the atmospheric Hotel Arena in Amsterdam.
Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award
The 16th edition of the Pantaenius Yacht Racing Image Award will reassemble the world’s best marine photographers from all over the world. The top 20 images will then be displayed in Hall 13, with the best image receiving a prize at the Yacht Racing Forum on Friday 21st November.