Many people dressed in colorful clothing are standing together, smiling and laughing at the camera.
A woman with long brown hair, wearing earrings and a blue top, smiles at the camera.
Ilse Merkinger-Boira
June 29, 2026
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2 MIN Reading time

EBCONT Pride Boat 2026 – United in Diversity

Pride is about connection, solidarity, and embracing diversity. The fourth EBCONT Pride Boat was much more than an event—it was an evening of inspiring conversations about allyship, genuine connection, and a rainbow stretching across the Danube, creating a powerful symbol of what is possible when we live diversity together.

Pride Flag

For the fourth consecutive year, the EBCONT Pride Boat set sail!

For the fourth time, EBCONT proudly welcomed colleagues, clients, partners, and friends aboard the Pride Boat. Once again, the Danube became the setting for an unforgettable evening filled with meaningful encounters, inspiring discussions, and a vibrant atmosphere.

From Vienna to Greifenstein and back, one theme united everyone on board: togetherness. Together with colleagues, customers, partners, and guests from companies including IKEA, ÖBB, Bayer, Wiener Städtische Versicherung, Erste Group, and many others, we experienced the value of exchanging perspectives beyond organizational boundaries.

One of the highlights of the evening was our panel discussion on LGBTQIA+ employee networks and allyship. The conversation reinforced an important message: diversity and inclusion do not stop at company borders. By sharing experiences, learning from one another, and supporting each other, we can create meaningful and lasting change together.

As if the evening itself wanted to underline this message, a brief summer shower accompanied us on the Danube before giving way to a beautiful rainbow stretching across the sky. It was a magical moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the event.

Of course, the celebration continued long after the discussions ended. There was laughter, dancing, and unforgettable moments shared together—creating the unique atmosphere that has become the hallmark of the EBCONT Pride Boat.

2 Männer und 3 Frauen mit Getränken in der Hand lachen in die Kamera. Sie tragen bunte Kleidung.

But Pride is about much more than celebrating for one evening. It is about fostering workplaces where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—feels safe, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making Pride Boat 2026 such a memorable experience, especially Bettina Richter, EBCONT's DEI Lead, whose dedication made this event possible. We are already looking forward to setting sail again next year.

Drag Queen in hellrosa Kleid sing mit Mikro.