1 month ago, the Palais des Expositions of Porte de Versailles welcome the international diving fair, a B2B show dedicated to diving lovers and snorkeling lovers. Interface Tourism was there with the Philippines Department of Tourism.

The diving fair: a qualitative B2C fair

This year, the 19th edition of the diving fair was held in Paris – Porte de Versailles from January 6th to 9th 2017. Renewed every year at the same period, this show became the inescapable rendezvous of scuba diving and snorkeling. All the actors from the diving sectors attend the event: the tourism industry (tourism boards, tour operators, diving clubs), equipment companies, and diving federations. Even the Navy exhibits! In total, an average of 413 entities exhibit each year.

As for the visitors, the fair is still very popular: 58 275 visitors went to the show during the 4 days, an increase by +5% compared to last year.

What is the interest for a destination?

The diving show is a high quality show for destinations that want to expand their promotion into the diving segment. Here, most visitors come to the show with a more or less defined project. They do not come to “beg” goodies, (although there are some asking for!), but to refine their holiday plans.

As such, it is a great opportunity for a destination to exhibit and the country can thus promote its fabulous diving sites without suffering from great competition (this year, 10 destinations exhibited at the show).

The tourism trade has not been left behind: a lot of business is made during the show, and new partnerships are born between tour operators, DMCs and diving centers.

The diving segment is growing

The diving market is constantly evolving. Today, there are 360,000 divers * compared with 50,000 in 1975.

The diving market, like any niche market, is less sensitive to the current geopolitical situation. The diving lovers do not hesitate to spend money for their hobbies. They leave behind the apprehensions of the lambda travelers.

“Whatever happens on earth, we do not care, as we’re under water! As long as there are fish, we go!” This is divers’ motto!

The dive show has become a must for those who wish to communicate on this segment, in addition to the good atmosphere that reigns at the show. There, you will not be able to refuse a tasting of oysters, a glass of wine… you can even do your first dive!

* Source : FFESSM