The 22nd boat show features "all that is important for the nautical industry of Slovenia and this part of Europe", said Jurij Korenc of Studio 37, which organises the event in cooperation with Marina Portorož.

The number of exhibitors rose to 350 this year and the maiden session of the national marine manufacturers association was held as part of the international fair.

According to Korenc, the association will join the International Council of Marine Industry Associations - ICOMIA.

Today's ribbon-cutting ceremony was addressed by Piran Mayor Peter Bossman and Infrastructure Ministry State Secretary Jure Leben, while Slovenian sailors headed by Olympic medallist Vasilj Žbogar cut the ribbon.

As customary, boats shortlisted for the international Boat of the Year Award will be presented.

The winner in the category of green nautical technology campaigns is a Slovenian campaign created by the infrastructure and environment ministries and eight key environmental institutions.

"We know that the influence on the environment, especially at sea, is increasing and it's crucial to raise people's awareness and teach them how to behave in the maritime environment," said Jadran Klinec of the Infrastructure Ministry.

An exhibition also marks the 70th anniversary of the Piran maritime secondary school.

The organisers also handed out the 2017 Blue Flag awards for the cleanest bathing sites in Slovenia to a dozen natural bathing sites and three marinas.