Vancouver International Boat Show (VIBS), Canada’s second largest, returns to the waters of Granville Island and inside Vancouver Convention Centre West from January 14 to 18. Hosted by Boating BC, VIBS 2026 brings boating enthusiasts together to celebrate their love of the water and boating lifestyle. With vendors and exhibitors presenting an array of watercraft and boating accessories patrons will be able to get a head start on the 2026 boating season.
Additionally, a series of seminars and demonstrations by industry experts keep you up to date on what’s happening around the industry. Topics include; The Science of Salmon Fishing with retired fishing-guide/author Bob Haymond, Around Vancouver Island: Planning Your Trip Around the Rock with experienced local boaters Tony Matthys and Fumiko Otsuka & Michael Hockertz, Electrification for Sail and Power Boats – What You Need to Know with hybrid-boat expert Brent Parry, Common Boating Accidents & How to Avoid Them with the Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue and Whale, hello!! with Fisheries & Oceans Canada Fishery Officer Catriona Day. As well a series of Ask The Expert interactive Q&A sessions take place throughout the Show to offer first hand knowledge to visitors.
Other Features of VIBS 2026 include:
The Beachcombers: Fans of the iconic BC filmed TV show will be able to relive memories with The HiBaller II, the boat made famous by one of the show’s most popular characters, Relic. Restored by Deano Fatovic the piece of Canadian boating and pop-culture history will be on display throughout the show.
Marine Authors: Visit the booth dedicated to favourite nautical books and learn everything you need to know about boating in BC; from technical manuals on dock maintenance and boat repair to travel guides on exotic destinations and novels and memoirs about travels on the high seas.
Wooden Boat Alley: A showcase for some of BC’s most talented craftsmen to present the finest wooden boats. Interact with these artisan crafters and learn about their experiences and expertise with demonstration of their skills and tips, tricks and techniques on how to build your own wooden craft.
Marine Careers & Education: For young people looking to launch their career and those looking for something new, exhibitors like BCIT and Quadrant Marine Institute will present opportunities from education to employment in the realms of marine mechanical and electronics to fiberglass, upholstery, parts, service and sales. With simulators and interactive displays present to allow hands-on participation
Yamaha Kids Zone: Young and aspiring boaters can stop by the Kids Zone to participate in a variety of activities including arts and crafts, paddleboat rides and more. Visit the Wooden Boat Alley on Saturday for a chance to glue together their own wooden boat.
The 2026 Vancouver International Boat Show takes place January 14 to 18, 2026 outdoor at Granville Island Maritime Market & Marina, 1676 Duranleau Street, Granville Island and indoor at Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place. Free Shuttle Bus Service runs continually between the two locations throughout show hours – check website for details. Single Day Tickets, Two-Day and 5-Day Show Passes are on sale now from $17. Admission for kids under 16 is free. Admission after 5pm for $5
Visit vancouverboatshow.ca for full details of show hours, tickets, show maps and hotel discounts and