Düsseldorf Boat Show - Worth a visit?

[kennyh]

I'm considering going to the Düsseldorf boat show in January; but for me it would be a 2 to 3 day trip (due to flights / logistics etc).

So the question is: Is it worth setting aside 3 days of my time to visit the show; is it better than the SBS or LBS?

Also, I assume it is OK for a non-German speaker to attend; or will I struggle to communicate with the vendors?

I must add that I'm not after a major purchase this year - just looking for a "good day out" and look at all things new in the boating world!

Any thoughts?

 

[Bandit]

It's very big 2 to 3 times larger than London.

its geared for German/Benelux/Scandinavian market with a clear split in size between N Europe/ Baltic cruising and The med destination market.

There are many very large boats and brands you don't see in the uk as well as smaller boats.

Its about 10 years since I went, well worth a visit, I did it straight after a couple of days at London show, a mistake I was cream crackered.

 

[Whitelighter]

It's brilliant. Went 5 years on the trot. May go next year.

It's not just boats, but loads of equipment and services too

 

[NoIllusion]

Did Düsseldorf for the 1st time this year........it's brilliant. The socialising in Alstadt is also something not to be missed. All booked and looking forward to January 2016.

 

[peterandjeanette]

Flights and hotel booked for 2016.

Are there any tickets on sale yet?

 

[Spi D]

Did Düsseldorf for the 1st time this year........it's brilliant. The socialising in Alstadt is also something not to be missed. All booked and looking forward to January 2016.

+1 absolutely.

Bear in mind that you have to decide on what not to focus on as the total exhib is waay to much to cover.

The airport and exhibition are close neighbours. We stayed at the hotel in Düsseldorf Central station and as the show ticket includes free public transport to and from, it was easy to get there. Train stop directly at the entrance.

Agree on Altstadt. Very cosy indeed.

 

[kennyh]

Sounds like it could be fun; I'd better check out the flights then!

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

If you go to one boat show a year, Dusseldorf is the one but you do need a minimum of 2 days to do it justice. A little tip. Obviously hotel prices go up during the show but in the past I've booked flights and hotel as a package on the BA website and its worked out much cheaper

 

[Spi D]

Just wanted to add that Hotel ibis Duesseldorf Hauptbahnhof is good value and has entrances both from the street and inside, accessing the shopping area

Despite being close to trains the hotel is quiet to stay in.