We had a chat with Dante Porta, the deus ex machina of Eudi Show, to get all the details about the (many) new features planned for the next edition
Anselmo Bozzoni
Tell us about the top 3 new features that will interest the public.
"We’ve come up with several new or revamped initiatives for freediving and spearfishing enthusiasts. First of all, we’re expanding the event areas. Alongside the iconic Maiorca Stage – which boasts a compelling schedule – we’re introducing a smaller, more 'intimate' event space dedicated to technical talks and in-depth discussions on equipment, techniques, safety, and more.
Next, we’re launching a new section dedicated to the boating world, currently in development, which will feature boat and accessory manufacturers. There will also be a dedicated shop area for freediving and spearfishing, where enthusiasts can purchase products from exhibiting companies. And finally, we’re renewing the Apnea Village, which already has 15 confirmed participants – but with the time between now and 2026, we’re confident there will be no fewer than 30 brands and organizations representing spearfishing and freediving."
...and what about the initiatives aimed at exhibitors?
"First off, exhibitors will benefit from a more clearly defined Apnea Village area than in previous editions. We’ve also created a 'collective' pre-set space for artisans and small businesses, offered at significantly reduced rates. There are also benefits for those who commit to a two-year attendance agreement.
Plus, all exhibitors will have free access to event spaces, with the chance to be included in a unified schedule of activities starting as early as December 2025. Lastly, we’re offering dedicated spaces for B2B meetings, again free of charge."
Let's talk pricing for exhibitors – any packages or discounts?
"As mentioned, we’ve created several packages to support every kind of participant. For smaller businesses, there’s the 'collective' area, already set up with smaller stands and incredibly accessible prices. For larger companies, we’re offering financial incentives for those signing a two-year participation deal.
Additionally, multi-product companies who also need to be present in the 'ARA' (scuba diving) section can have showroom space in the Apnea Village at virtually no additional cost. All companies will receive an invitation ticket package, passes, pre-fair promotional support, all free of charge. For those who need it, we’ll also set up a private meeting office, available by reservation and also free."
You’ve always supported side events. What’s cooking this year – photo contests, videos, anything else?
"Events in general – especially interactive ones – have long been at the core of Eudi. For several years now, fans contact us not so much to ask who’s exhibiting, but to find out what’s happening – a clear sign of shifting motivations.
We’re launching various initiatives: some small social media campaigns will begin soon and continue up to the fair, giving enthusiasts the chance to win entrance tickets. We’ll also soon announce a video contest focused on spearfishing, with a first prize of a €1,000 voucher to be used at the Apnea Shop during the event. Naturally, we’ll also continue our long-standing video and photo contests, which always include a category dedicated to freediving."
On a scale of 1 to 10, how important is it to have a dedicated space for freediving and spearfishing where enthusiasts can connect?
"It’s absolutely essential – probably a 10. In the worlds of spearfishing and freediving, the sense of community is incredibly strong. A community like that needs a physical space to come together and feel represented. It’s about creating a place where everyone truly feels like they belong to this world."
Give us an overview: what will the freediving and spearfishing area look like?
"The Apnea Village will occupy a section of Hall 30, covering about 1,700 square meters – roughly 15% of the total exhibition space. Floor decals will indicate when visitors are entering the Apnea Village. Pre-set stands will feature custom-colored carpeting.
All the key players from the sector will be there – companies, associations, media, and more – alongside interactive spaces like the Maiorca Stage and the technical forum area. We’re also working on a welcome desk (to gather feedback and visitor data) and, if possible, a chill-out bar area."