NAVEXPO

NAVEXPO: The Only Maritime Trade Show in France Offering Live Demonstrations “On-Water, Underwater, and In the Air”

In the world of maritime innovation, NAVEXPO stands out as a pioneering business event that pushes the boundaries of traditional trade shows. Held in the harbor of Lorient, a city with a strong maritime heritage, NAVEXPO is the only event in France to offer a dynamic expo combining live demonstrations on water, underwater, and in the air.

This one-of-a-kind three-day event creates a highly interactive environment where exhibitors and visitors can engage not only through static displays but through immersive real-world experiences. NAVEXPO is more than an exhibition—it's a working demonstration of the future of the maritime industry.

A Live Maritime Tech Showcase Like No Other

Unlike conventional trade shows, NAVEXPO prioritizes real-time interaction and practical demonstration. With a location directly on the port and access to open water, exhibitors can put their innovations to the test under authentic operational conditions.

Demonstrations That Make a Difference

During the event, attendees have the opportunity to witness:

USV drones and dronized boats performing navigation tasks in open water

ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) in action inside a 26m³ underwater pool

UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) conducting maritime surveillance and other flight operations above the port

These live demos allow visitors to evaluate not just the specs but the true capabilities of each technology in conditions similar to real missions. For procurement teams, engineers, and government agencies, this approach is invaluable.

Onboard Visits and Offshore Trials

NAVEXPO is built to go beyond passive observation. Visitors are encouraged to engage directly with technology, including boarding vessels and participating in sea trials. Throughout the event, exhibitors regularly organize excursions and demonstrations that showcase the performance, handling, and versatility of maritime assets.

Whether you're evaluating RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats), fast intervention boats, or larger offshore vessels, experiencing them in motion is critical to making informed decisions.

Opportunities for Hands-On Engagement

Guided visits on board research, patrol, or commercial boats

Real-time sea trials inside the harbor and offshore

Q&A sessions with engineers and operators after each trial

Networking on deck with exhibitors and fellow industry professionals

This hands-on format is what truly distinguishes NAVEXPO as a practical, deal-focused maritime business meeting.

Diverse Range of Exhibitors and Specializations

NAVEXPO’s exhibitor list is curated to reflect the full scope of modern maritime operations. From start-ups specializing in drone integration to legacy shipbuilding companies, the show brings together a wide variety of players committed to advancing sea-based industries.

Key Areas Covered at NAVEXPO

Surface drones and dronized autonomous vessels

Underwater robotics and marine data collection platforms

Aerial drones for maritime monitoring, search and rescue, and infrastructure inspection

Shipbuilding and naval equipment manufacturing

Offshore operations and support services

Port infrastructure and logistics

Sensors and software for marine environment monitoring

This broad scope makes the show relevant not only to naval and commercial marine sectors, but also to ports, environmental agencies, and offshore energy providers.

Supporting the Evolution of the Maritime Sector

NAVEXPO is not just a place to buy and sell — it’s a platform for transformation. The maritime sector is undergoing rapid technological evolution, from automation and remote operation to AI-driven data collection and renewable energy at sea. NAVEXPO actively promotes these themes by offering a space where R&D meets real-world application.

Topics That Define the Future of Maritime Innovation

Integration of autonomous systems in daily marine operations

Safety protocols for unmanned sea and air missions

Marine environment assessment and sustainability efforts

Cybersecurity for maritime digital systems

Cross-platform compatibility between air, surface, and subsurface drones

These issues are not only addressed by exhibitors but also discussed in technical presentations and informal roundtable conversations throughout the event.

Strategic Networking in a Focused Environment

While live demonstrations are at the heart of NAVEXPO, the event is also designed to foster high-level networking and strategic partnerships. Business decision-makers from across Europe and beyond attend the show to connect with potential suppliers, research collaborators, and technology integrators.

Attendees include:

Naval and coast guard procurement teams

Offshore energy and wind farm operators

Research institutions and marine labs

Shipbuilders and maintenance firms

Maritime logistics and infrastructure authorities

With its unique blend of business and tech, NAVEXPO offers an efficient setting for productive conversations that lead to real outcomes.

A Perfect Match of Location and Vision

Lorient’s port is the ideal backdrop for an event like NAVEXPO. It offers direct access to open water, deep docks, and a vibrant maritime community. This environment makes every demonstration and sea trial realistic and relevant.

What’s more, Lorient is a growing hub for marine technology and sustainable maritime development, further amplifying the show’s commitment to innovation and real-world application.

Final Thoughts: NAVEXPO Is Redefining the Maritime Trade Show Format

In a sector where hands-on performance is as important as technical specs, NAVEXPO delivers an unmatched experience. By combining traditional trade show elements with full-scale live demonstrations across underwater, surface, and aerial platforms, the event redefines how maritime innovation is showcased and sold.

From discovering the latest ROV capabilities to experiencing autonomous boats in action or networking with Europe’s top maritime minds, NAVEXPO offers something no other French event can — a full-sensory, business-driven exploration of the future of the maritime industry.

For anyone involved in naval operations, offshore development, maritime security, or port innovation, NAVEXPO is an unmissable event that blends technology, engagement, and strategic vision.