Downtown Design
redazione 6/05/2026

The best of the boating industry at the Blue Design Summit

Taking place from 18–20 May in La Spezia, the latest edition of the Blue Design Summit celebrates creativity, sustainability, and innovation in nautical design

The Blue Design Summit 2026 (BDS26) returns from 18 to 20 May at the Teatro Civico in La Spezia, the event dedicated to the superyacht sector and “the water-related design”: from cruises to resorts, from waterfronts to marinas and yacht clubs. The title for this third edition is The Next Wave Now, a claim that conveys how the future of design is already here, already taking shape. The Summit aims to celebrate the creative moment when ideas turn into innovation and rewrite the rules. At the heart of the concept and extensive programme is the relationship between water and design, as well as creativity, sustainability and innovation within the nautical sector and related design fields. These themes are explored through conferences, competitions, technical tours and awards featuring international industry leaders.

Within this context, La Spezia strengthens its role with the UNESCO designation of City of Design, a permanent recognition that rewards the area’s creative and productive excellence, particularly in the nautical design sector. The Blue Design Summit stands as one of the leading platforms for discussion and promotion of this identity.

Organizzato da Fondazione Promostudi e Clickutility Team, il Blue Design Summit è promosso da Comune della Spezia, Autorità di Sistema Portuale del Mar Ligure Orientale, Camera di Commercio Imperia – La Spezia – Savona, Confindustria La Spezia, Liguria International e Miglio Blu.

Organized by Fondazione Promostudi and Clickutility Team, the Blue Design Summit is promoted by the Municipality of La Spezia, the Eastern Ligurian Sea Port Authority, the Chamber of Commerce of Imperia – La Spezia – Savona, Confindustria La Spezia, Liguria International and Miglio Blu.

The event confirms its position as a key reference point for stakeholders across the national and international high-end design supply chain, addressing the most innovative and strategic topics in the sector.

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