How accessible are boat shows for people with disabilities and mobility impairments? Megayacht News is seeking your answers through the 2026 Boat Show Accessibility Survey. It builds upon the first survey of its kind, which we conducted last year.
Boat shows play an important role in the yacht-buying and ownership experience. Yet, long distances, crowded walkways, unstable docks, inaccessible restrooms, and limited seating can turn a productive day into a frustrating physical ordeal.
Why Boat Show Accessibility Matters
Boat show accessibility matters more than many realize. According to the World Health Organization, 20 to 25 percent of adults ages 45 and older live with a mobility disability. This same age range represents a significant portion of superyacht buyers. In line with this, last year’s survey revealed that 43 percent of yachting clients find shows on both sides of the Atlantic are physically challenging.
Those challenges have consequences beyond personal discomfort. They can, and do, limit how many yachts and exhibitors someone visits, for instance. Additionally, they can force meetings off-site, or discourage attendance altogether.
The good news is, some show organizers are already considering improvements. This year’s survey will help identify where difficulties remain. It simultaneously will reveal which practical changes may make the biggest impact.
Who Should Take the Boat Show Accessibility Survey?
This survey is for yacht buyers and owners, their families and guests, brokers, shipyard representatives, designers, as well as captains and crew. You need not have a disability or mobility impairment to participate.
Furthermore, we want to hear from people who have hosted or arranged meetings for someone with a disability or mobility impairment. Professionals familiar with relevant client or family experiences can participate as well.
How Your Responses Can Improve Boat Shows
The questions address the complete show experience. They cover parking and drop-off areas, for example, plus entrances, walkways, and docks. They also cover yacht boarding, water taxis, restrooms, transportation, seating, shade, and pre-show accessibility information. The survey additionally asks which improvements you believe will help most. Possibilities include reservable golf carts/mobility shuttles, more stable docks, easier boarding methods, accessible tenders, shaded rest areas, and on-site accessibility guides.
The survey takes about four minutes, and responses are anonymous. we will share the findings with show organizers. The goal is to encourage practical, meaningful improvements across the industry. As an additional thank-you, one randomly selected participant will receive a $50 gift card. Providing an email address for the drawing is optional. It will remain confidential and separate from the survey analysis.
Boat shows can serve the entire yachting community only when the entire community can participate. Take the 2026 Boat Show Accessibility Survey, and help make future shows easier, safer, and more welcoming.
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