Welcome to the 2023 International WorkBoat Show

On behalf of myself and the entire WorkBoat team, welcome to the 43rd edition of the International WorkBoat Show – the U.S. commercial marine industry’s largest trade show. This is the highlight of the year for us, and we are thrilled to be back among our friends, customers, and colleagues in New Orleans.

There are many new and exciting things for you to experience at this year’s show, and I am happy to report that the WorkBoat Show continues to grow exponentially. This year, we are expecting over 900 best-in-class exhibitors and thousands of qualified attendees.

Over the course of the next three days, you will have the opportunity to help better position your commercial marine business for success in 2024 and beyond. At the show, you will view thousands of new products, stay updated on emerging trends through our comprehensive WorkBoat Conference Program, and take part in our excellent lineup up of special events and networking opportunities.

Here is just a sample of what to expect at WorkBoat 2023:

Underwater Intervention (UI), this must-attend event for the entire underwater operations industry joins the WorkBoat Show as an open contiguous space right on the show floor. UI features a pavilion and conference, as well as a dedicated submarine zone with submarines on display. Attendees and exhibitors will have the unprecedented opportunity to see a diverse cross section of the commercial marine market all in one place. We are excited to offer our customers access to this extremely exciting industry. Join us at the happy hour at the Underwater Intervention pavilion on Nov. 29, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

The 20th Annual Submarine Symposium will also be held at WorkBoat Show for the first time in 2023. The Symposium brings together submarine professionals from around the world to discuss the state of the industry. You are invited to join, meet, and listen to the leaders, operators, and regulators of the submarine industry across all sectors. Passes can be purchased during registration. The Submarine Symposium will be held in the Underwater Intervention Pavilion.

The WorkBoat Conference Program returns with an expanded lineup of speakers and sessions. From comprehensive panel discussions featuring leading figures in the industry to deep-dive conversations with trailblazing marine technology companies, this year’s program is sure to impress. This year, you will also have multiple face-to-face chances to stay informed about the small boat priorities of the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard.

WorkBoat’s Significant Boat Awards and Happy Hour will be held in the Great Hall this year on Nov. 29, beginning at 3:30 p.m. This year, our WorkBoat Editors have selected 10 Significant Boats from which readers have chosen the Boat of the Year. Join us as we unveil the winner and of course, have a drink on us.

The Maritime Throwdown is back. This year, we are thrilled to be hosting the Maritime Throwdown’s Wild Card Finals. Stop by the new arena at the back of the hall on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 as contestants compete in an obstacle course format – a series of physical challenges including coiling, lifting, carrying, rigging, throwing, and securing lines, all while maintaining safety.

There is so much going on at WorkBoat 2023. I hope you will take this opportunity to experience as much as possible. This year, we have developed a new mobile app that will help you navigate the show floor and plan for the special events that are taking place at the show.

When it comes to connecting with the industry, there is simply no better time and venue than the International WorkBoat Show. Thank you for making the show part of your business plan.