Hungary’s only on-water and waterfront boat exhibition, the 30th Balaton Boat Show, is set to return to the Kenese Marina-Port for a three-day showcase of innovation, lifestyle, and leisure. This year marks a special milestone for the event, and organizers are expanding its horizons: in addition to the latest sailing, electric, and motorboats, the show will introduce a brand-new theme — cycling and active tourism — under the banner of Aktív Balaton and the Bike Zone (Bringa Zóna).
As turizmus.com reports, more than 70 exhibitors and over 80 boats — from compact electric vessels to luxurious 50-foot electric yachts — will be on display, including nearly ten Hungarian premieres. Visitors will have the opportunity to test drive around 30 boats on site, offering a hands-on experience of life on the water. Alongside the boats, guests will find a full range of maritime gear: ropes, sails, accessories, watersport equipment, and specialized clothing.
Unlike many autumn events, the Balaton Boat Show is not a season closer. Instead, it marks the start of the next boating season, with early-bird deals and pre-orders available. According to organizers, buyers who make decisions now can be enjoying their new boats by spring.
Over the past thirty years, the Balaton Boat Show has played a unique role in supporting Hungarian boating culture,” said Edit Rápolthy, director of the show. “This anniversary year marks a step forward. While preserving tradition, we are also expanding our focus with Aktív Balaton and the Bike Zone, opening the door to cycling and active leisure opportunities around the lake.”
With the new cycling theme, the event now appeals not just to boating enthusiasts but also to those looking to explore Lake Balaton’s growing active tourism offerings. Visitors can check out electric and traditional bicycles, accessories, and apparel — and even test-ride e-bikes or join twice-daily guided e-bike tours, free of charge.
The cycling component is a collaboration between BalatonBike365 and Balaton Bike Tour, highlighting the region’s push toward year-round, sustainable tourism. Organizers see the event as the kickoff to the lake’s autumn tourism season.
We hope boat lovers get inspired to try cycling, and cyclists become curious about boating,” said Péter Princzinger, CEO of VisitBalaton365 Nkft. “There is real value in comprehensive active tourism packages, which is why the Boat Show is an important meeting point for service providers too.”
Set in the authentic harbor environment of Kenese Marina-Port, the Boat Show offers more than just boats and bikes. Expect a festive atmosphere with beach bars, DJ sets, family-friendly zones, and swimming areas. Local gastro-specialties will round out the experience, making the event appealing for visitors of all ages.
This year’s exclusive automotive partner is Porsche Centrum Budapest, showcasing a range of high-end Porsche models. Attendees will even have the opportunity to test drive select vehicles during the event.
And getting there is easier than ever. Even as summer winds down, MÁV Hungarian Railways continues to offer frequent train service to Lake Balaton, making it convenient to attend the event without a car.
Via turizmus.com; Featured image: MTI/Bodnár Boglárka
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