SMM 2026 – The leading international maritime trade fair, Hamburg, Germany
Overview
SMM 2026 (Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology) is the world’s premier trade fair for the maritime industry. Held biennially at the Hamburg Messe und Congress, this 32nd edition serves as the most important gathering for global industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. The 2026 event will center on the powerful theme “SMM – driving the maritime transition,” specifically targeting the dual challenges of decarbonization and digital transformation.
With over 2,300 exhibitors from 100 countries and approximately 50,000 trade visitors, SMM covers the entire maritime value chain across 90,000 square meters of exhibition space. The fair is not just an exhibition but a hub for high-level conferences, including the Maritime Future Summit and the Green Route, which provide deep dives into sustainable shipping and AI-driven maritime solutions. For sixty years, SMM has been the place where the maritime community sets benchmarks for “Green and Smart Shipping.”
Event Highlights
- Themed Routes: Navigate the massive exhibition easily using specialized routes: Green Route (decarbonization), Digital Route (AI & IoT), Security Route (maritime defense), Cruise & Ferry Route, and Job Route.
- New for 2026 – “All About Ports”: A dedicated industry event and exhibition area focused specifically on the future of port operations, resilient infrastructure, and climate-neutral logistics.
- Maritime Career Market: Located in Hall B2, this hub connects top employers with skilled professionals and young talent, featuring a dedicated Career Forum and networking “Happy Hours.”
- Open Stage Conferences: High-level international conferences are held directly in the exhibition halls on open stages, allowing all trade fair participants to access expert talks at no extra cost.
- National Pavilions: Explore specialized clusters from over 30 nations, including major pavilions from the UK, USA, and Norway, showcasing localized maritime engineering excellence.
Why Attend
SMM 2026 is an essential destination for shipowners, shipbuilders, naval architects, and port operators who need to navigate the transition to zero-emission shipping. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to see massive technical components—from propulsion systems to cargo handling gear—live in action. For executives, it is the primary venue for benchmarking technological progress and negotiating large-scale contracts in a face-to-face environment.
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The fair is a powerhouse for B2B networking, with the majority of visitors being high-level decision-makers. Whether you are looking to source innovative Alternative Fuel systems, implement Smart Shipping data tools, or scout for specialized maritime talent, SMM provides the density of expertise required for strategic growth. Set in Hamburg, Germany’s “Gateway to the World,” the event also offers a vibrant social atmosphere where maritime tradition meets the cutting edge of industrial modernism.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates: September 1 – September 4, 2026.
- Total Duration: 4 Full Days (Tuesday to Friday).
- Opening Hours: * Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Hamburg, Germany.
- Venue: Hamburg Messe und Congress.
- Google Maps Address: Messeplatz. 1, 20357 Hamburg, Germany.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Available through the official SMM online ticket shop; registration typically opens in early 2026.
- Admission Type: Trade Visitor Admission (Registration required).
- Ticket Pricing: * Day Ticket: Approximately $55.00 (€50).
- Full Event Pass: Approximately $105.00 (€95).
- Special Seating or VIP Options: Reduced rates are available for students (~$20); separate tickets may be required for specific gala dinners or high-level evening receptions.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@smm-hamburg.com
- Phone: +49 40 35690
- Website: https://www.smm-hamburg.com/
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/SMMfair
- https://www.youtube.com/SMMfair
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/6413128?trk=tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3Ashowcase%2Cidx%3A3-2-10%2CtarId%3A1428583250168%2Ctas%3Asmm+f
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Hamburg Airport (HAM), 10 km from the venue (~20–25 minutes by taxi).
- Public Transport: From the airport, take S-Bahn S1 to Central Station, then change to S2 or S5 to “Dammtor” (East Entrance) or U2 to “Messehallen” (Central Entrance).
- SMM Airport Shuttle: A dedicated shuttle service typically runs between the airport and the West Entrance for approximately $11.00 (€10) per journey.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis from the airport cost approximately $35.00 – $45.00; MOIA (ridesharing) and Free Now are popular local apps.
- Parking: 3,500 on-site spaces; Parkhaus Mitte and West are the primary options (~$22/day).
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Radisson Blu Hotel Hamburg (4-star Superior, On-site at Dammtor, ~$280-450/night); Grand Elysée Hamburg (5-star, 0.8 km, ~$300-500/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Mercure Hotel Hamburg Mitte (4-star, 0.3 km, ~$160-260/night); NH Hamburg Mitte (4-star, 1.2 km, ~$140-220/night).
- Budget Stays: Ibis Budget Hamburg City (2-star, 2.5 km, ~$85-130/night); A&O Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hostel/Hotel, 2 km, ~$50-90/night).
Reviews
- “SMM is the undisputed heavyweight of maritime fairs; the level of internationalism is unmatched.”
- “The transition to open stages in the halls was a game-changer; you can listen to world-class experts without leaving the exhibition.”
- “Hamburg is the perfect host city—the networking at the harbor after the fair is just as valuable as the show itself.”
Maps
Contact
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FAQ's
Does my SMM ticket include free public transport in Hamburg?
Traditionally, SMM tickets do not include free local public transport (HVV). Visitors usually need to purchase a separate HVV ticket. A "Single Ticket Greater Hamburg Area" costs about $3.50. It is recommended to check the ticket shop for any special "Hamburg CARD" deals that combine event entry with transit.
Is SMM 2026 open to the general public?
SMM is strictly a trade fair intended for professionals in the maritime industry. During registration, you may be asked to provide your company name and industry sector. While students and young professionals are welcome, particularly for the Career Market, it is not a general consumer exhibition.
Can I visit the MS&D (Maritime Security & Defence) conference at SMM?
Yes, MS&D is an integral part of SMM. While it occasionally holds standalone sessions, its core presence is during the SMM week. For 2026, the Security Route will guide you to all relevant exhibitors and the specific stages hosting defense-related panels.
What is the best way to handle lunch and catering at such a large venue?
Messe Hamburg has numerous bistros and restaurants scattered across the A and B halls. However, during peak hours (12:00–14:00), these can be very crowded. Many exhibitors host catering at their own booths for invited guests, and there are several excellent restaurants just outside the South and West entrances in the "Karolinenviertel" and "Schanzenviertel" districts.
Are there facilities for storing luggage at the venue?
Yes, guarded cloakrooms and luggage storage lockers are available at all four main entrances (Central, East, South, and West). Due to the size of the halls (12 in total), it is highly recommended to leave large suitcases in storage to facilitate easier movement through the fair.
