The call for entries of boot Düsseldorf’s “ocean tribute” Award is now open once again to all international research projects, innovative concepts and start-ups. The prestigious marine conservation prize has been awarded since 2018 by the trade fair organizers and the German Ocean Foundation, and has mobilized a large community of supporters in recent years. Previous winners include a wide variety of international projects from many parts of the world, all contributing to marine conservation through very different methods.

“This year, we have felt the special spirit, the magic and, at the same time, the business engine of boot. In Düsseldorf, the latest trends come to life. This makes boot the international innovation forum and barometer for the entire water sports industry. I look forward to every single conversation with you, our exhibitors, and to working together to make January in Düsseldorf the center of the global maritime market once again,” explains boot Director Petros Michelidakis.

There was a great atmosphere in the 16 exhibition halls on the first weekend of Boot 2026. With its mix of high-calibre trade fair and hands-on experiences, Boot captures the spirit of the times and inspires people to take up water sports. Over 50,000 interested visitors came to Düsseldorf on the first two days.

This indicates that the number of visitors is comparable to that of previous events.

boot Düsseldorf and the German Ocean Foundation have been promoting the protection of our oceans with the ‘ocean tribute’ Award since 2017. The award honors people, projects and initiatives that protect the oceans, lakes and rivers with creative ideas and great commitment. The award has now established itself as one of the most important international honors in marine conservation.

The registration period for the 2026 ‘ocean tribute’ ends on 30 September, and anyone whose projects contribute to marine conservation is invited to apply for this prestigious award.

The “Ocean Tribute” Award 2025 call for entries is now open. Apply here. Initiatives and associations can apply for the award (€20,000 prize), which will be presented at Boot Düsseldorf on January 20, 2025.

 For a safe staging of boot 2022,  the world's largest water sports trade fair,  Messe Düsseldorf has again adapted its hygiene measures in line with the Covid Protection Ordinance of its home state of North Rhine-Westphalia, which was updated on November 24.

Most important is the  introduction of the regulation for access to the boot halls.