The Barcelona International Boat Show is once again ahead of the sector.
In its constant commitment to innovation, the event presents in 2026 MAIA, its new presenter generated with artificial intelligence, designed to accompany, inform and connect with the nautical community throughout the year. Una figura que no sustituye… sino que amplifica. A presenter with a purpose: luxury, sustainability and technology “Luxury is being able to continue sailing in living seas 30 years from now”. With this message starts MAIA, a presenter who goes beyond visual impact. Her narrative connects directly with one of the great pillars of the Boat Show: sustainability as the foundation for the future of the sector. MAIA combines:
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Technical rigor
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International vision
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Accessible language
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And a deeply Mediterranean lifestyle approach
All this in a format designed for social media, video and digital content that will accompany the user before, during and after the event.
Who is MAIA?
Maia Umiko (32 years old) is the new face of the Boat Show… although she is not exactly human. Of a Japanese mother and Catalan father, her profile blends science, sea and global culture:
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Marine biologist by training
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Master’s degree in nautical engineering in Malmö
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Raised between Port Vell and Japan
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Speaks 5 languages
Her personality combines technical knowledge with closeness, humor and spontaneity. She can explain a large yacht or a complex technology… or start dancing on deck if the right song plays. MAIA is, above all, a community connector: she unites luxury and sustainability, science and lifestyle, industry and end user.
The new channel to discover the Boat Show 2026
Her mission will be clear:
👉 to tell everything that is happening (and what is to come) Starting April 15th, MAIA will begin to reveal:
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The first confirmed brands
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New developments in vessels (motor, sail and catamarans)
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Equipment and accessories
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New areas of the show
Among them, spaces debuting in 2026 stand out:
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Diving & Water Sports
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Shopping
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Introduction to sailing
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Tourist destinations
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And a new indoor pavilion
In addition, there are already more than 60 confirmed brands, anticipating an especially powerful edition.
This has only just begun…
The arrival of MAIA is not just a novelty. It is a statement of intent. The Boat Show 2026 takes another step in its evolution towards a more digital, more connected event, more aligned with new communication codes. And this… is just the beginning.
🗓️ We look forward to seeing you from October 14th to 18th, 2026 📍 Port Vell – Barcelona Participate as an exhibitor, sponsor, buyer, professional or general visitor.
