How We Got to Boot 2026
Another post focused on boats already. This story concentrates more on the journey than the displays.
This is true unless you study the photographs.
Boot Düsseldorf is the iconic marine show where manufacturers launch boats, dive equipment, sailing yachts, ribs, superyachts, and marine toys.
It had been on our list for years, and this time the diary finally aligned, so we went.
Travel and Stopover
Flying Exeter to Amsterdam with KLM cost more than easy Jet from Bristol but was far more convenient and comfortable.
KLM offered great flight times, generous baggage allowance, and complimentary drinks and cheese sandwiches.
Parking at the Grange Hotel meant a front-door drop-off, avoiding a long walk from remote car parks.
An overnight stay in Amsterdam ensured a relaxed evening and an early, stress-free start.
The hotel was clean, affordable, kettle-free, and fifteen minutes from the station.
Tourist tax was payable by card at reception, despite rooms being prepaid.
Coffin-style accommodation tempted us briefly but was fully booked.
Boot Düsseldorf Experience
The intercity train quickly took us to Düsseldorf, followed by a short tram ride to the Boot 2026 exhibition station.
Our first stop was the Highfield stand to see the newly launched ADV9.
The ADV9 builds on the ADV7 and is Highfield’s first cabin boat.
It is a high-performance crossover rather than a pure RIB, offering impressive overnight capability.
High freeboard and a stepped hull design deliver excellent handling and confidence.
The following day and a half were spent exploring fifteen vast halls of marine equipment and experiences.
Everything appeared together, from fishing rods to superyachts, Lamborghinis to pedalos.
Wave pools, dive tanks, cinemas, and lecture halls filled the spacious halls.
The only notable absence was AP Valves from the diving exhibits.
Stay, Transport, and Reflections
Talks from users, ambassadors, and industry leaders were conveniently spread across the halls during the impressive Boot 2026.
Food options were varied and plentiful, extending well beyond traditional bratwurst and curry wurst.
Our Düsseldorf hotel was basic, quiet, kettle-free again, but cleverly operated through a digital door system.
Trams and buses were easy to use through a single transport app.
Onboard ticket machines were difficult to reach when trams were busy, making the app essential.
Overall, it was a great short trip with simple hotels, a strong airline, and smooth international travel.
Having breakfast in one country, lunch in another, and dinner in a third felt refreshingly efficient.
Conclusion
Would I go again? Absolutely. Amsterdam worked perfectly as a travel hub and will likely be used again.