Southampton Boat Show returns this year with another exciting 10 day schedule! Britain’s largest boating festival will run from Friday 13th to Sunday 22nd September. This year the event is collaborating with a new sponsor, Borrow A Boat, to bring you one of the biggest shows to date.
The festival will throw the spotlight onto British Marine’s Futures strategy, highlighting the importance of accessibility, flexibility and inclusivity in the boating community. The aim is to highlight how everyone has the ability to get out onto the water and how access to watercraft is an option for all.
Lesley Robinson, British Marine CEO, commented: “We have an ideal location to get people on the water and this year we want to get even more people enjoying new experiences in, on and around the water. We’ll be showing just how accessible, inclusive and flexible boating and watersports can be with something for everyone to enjoy.”
What's on
Stationed in Mayflower Park, the show will be hosted in Europe’s largest purpose-built marina, with some of the world’s most lavish and inventive boats on display. Expect a busy schedule of dedicated features, guest speakers and live music!
In line with the theme of accessibility, the show is giving you plenty of opportunities to get aboard a boat. You can try your hand out on the water, with events such as Stand Up Paddleboarding and sails around the Ocean Race Yacht on offer.
We suggest heading to the ‘Try-A-Boat’ stand to hit the water in a high-speed rib or to trial the Solent by sail. Or if you’re feeling even more adventurous, the ‘Try-A-Dive’ team will give you the experience of breathing underwater in their new purpose built tank.
Another event highlight is a view of the Tall Ship Shtandart - this 1703 frigate was built by Peter the Great and a replica will be on display at the show for all to see. Go aboard the decks to discover the history behind this famous ship, a unique experience not to be missed.
Meet and learn from your marine inspirations at the Practical Boating Stage. This part of the show invites beginners and enthusiasts to come together with some huge sailing personalities to gain new skills and first hand insights into the nautical world.
Creating an eco-friendly show
As well as some of these exciting features, Southampton Boat Show are continuing with their environmental initiatives follow on from last years event. They’ve made a long term pledge to reduce their usage of single use plastics, ensure their food stands are serving only sustainable fish and continue recycling wherever possible.
In support of their eco-friendly pledges, there are plenty of show features to encourage visitors to get involved in spreading the green message. In the lead up to the show, there will be a beach clean-up scheme taking place to encourage wildlife protection and to support our precious coastal habitats. Also, expect to see the presentation of an Environmental Award to recognise exhibitors who have made great efforts to reduce their environmental impact whilst being at the show.
The event is shaping up to be one of the biggest shows to date, with boats and products on display from over 600 global marine brands - it’s definitely not one to miss!
Tickets are on sale now, with adult entry starting at just £16.50.
