#SIBS24 takes place from 13-22 September. Photo credit: British Marine
The 55th edition of the Southampton International Boat Show, the UK’s largest boating festival, will take place from 13-22 September 2024. Whether you’re looking to buy a boat or just browsing, with over 600 exhibitors, this year’s event features a wide array of boats and marine equipment for everyone, from kayaks to superyachts.
Kicking off this year’s boat show season, returning show favourites include on-water activities like sailing a yacht, motorboating, RIB rides, dinghy sailing, and diving in the Andark Dive tank. And the impressive tall ship ‘Thalassa’ will be available for tours and late afternoon cruises, offering a unique maritime experience.
With many new features and activities for visitors set to launch at this year’s edition, here’s an overview of what to expect:
SHOW AREAS
Foredeck Stage Gets a Revamp with New Boating Icons
This year, the Foredeck Stage will feature a host of new speakers alongside beloved show favourites. You’ll hear from prominent figures including 4-time Paralympian sailor Hannah Stodel, renowned yacht designer Tony Castro, Maiden Skipper Heather Thomas, and adventurer Sir Chay Blyth, who famously sailed around the world non-stop in the ‘wrong’ direction. Other highlights include Pump and Wing Foiling Champion Hugo Dobrijevic, low environmental impact commercial sailing yachts Expedition Zero, and Norwegian designer Sophi Horne, who pioneered the Racebird concept and the electric foiling raceboat used in E1.
Watch out for our very own boats.com directors sharing their tips on boat buying, too!
Marina Zones Redesigned for Enhanced Navigation
The show’s purpose-built marina is getting a major redesign with a zonal layout. This new configuration will showcase vessels by type, making it easier to navigate and compare over 350 stunning vessels, from the world’s most prestigious sailing and powerboats to high-end tenders and chase boats.
See over 600 vessels on display at the show. Photo credit: British Marine
ON THE WATER
Expanded Watersports Lake
Building on last year’s success, the Watersports Lake is back, larger and better. In collaboration with Rockley Watersports, the lake will offer more sessions than ever before, whether you’re honing your paddling skills or trying kayaking for the first time.
New On the Water Stage Show
The ‘On the Water Stage Show’ will introduce the exhilarating sport of wingfoiling with National Champion Hugo Dobrijevic showcasing his aerial skills. The stage will also feature thrilling performances from flyboarding expert James Prestwood and jet-ski champion Jack Moule, ensuring a captivating display of aquatic athleticism.
Photo credit: British Marine
ENTERTAINMENT
Live music & food
Launched at the 2023 show, the Shipyard, delivered by GAC Pindar, will extend its hours this year to include even more live music performances, delectable street food, and captivating entertainment. On September 14 and 21, the Shipyard will stay open until 9 pm for special late-night parties. DJ Chris Moyles will kick off the festivities on September 14 with a “90s Hangover” party, while Symphonic Ibiza will close the show on September 21 with a dynamic fusion of Ibiza dance anthems and live orchestral arrangements.
Live Broadcasts from the America’s Cup and More
In addition to live music, The Shipyard will broadcast the America’s Cup action, with special guests from Barcelona, and provide live coverage of UK and international sports, including football, cricket, and F1.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
University of Southampton Research Initiatives
In the Watersports Zone, the University of Southampton will present several research projects. Highlights include a wave basin demonstration where visitors can build coastal defenses from Lego and observe their performance in simulated storms, as well as displays on submarine cables, offshore wind turbines, and marine robotics.
Show Charity and Lighthouse Display
This year, the show is partnering with the Southampton Hospitals Charity and their Light the South art trail to support Southampton Children’s Hospital. Visitors will encounter all 40 lighthouses from the Light the South trail upon arrival, with additional lighthouses scattered throughout the show as part of a Treasure Hunt. Arts & Crafts areas at both the Shipyard and Foredeck Stage will offer kids opportunities to create their own lighthouse models, solve maritime-themed puzzles, and engage in other fun activities.
RNLI Celebrates 200 Years
To mark its 200th anniversary, the RNLI will showcase both the Shannon Class lifeboat, introduced in 2013, and the Sir William Arnold, an ex-RNLI boat from 1973. The Shannon Class, capable of speeds up to 25 knots, and the Sir William Arnold, with a top speed of 18.5 knots and over 500 rescue missions, will be on display in the marina.
Photo credit: British Marine
PREMIUM EXPERIENCES
New Location and Chef at the Quayside Club
Treat yourself to a luxurious experience at the Quayside Club, which has moved to a new location within Mayflower Park, offering stunning views of the marina and On the Water Stage, along with a new menu created by award-winning chef Jonas Lodge.
Shipyard Bar with Exclusive Quayside Club VIP Area
The Shipyard now features a new two-tier bar with a covered roof terrace offering panoramic views of the stage and marina. Quayside Club ticket holders will have exclusive access to the upper tier.
TICKETS & ADMISSION
Free Tickets for Under 21s
This year, children aged 17 and under can attend the show for free with every adult general admission ticket. A new ‘Young Persons’ ticket for 18–21-year-olds has also been introduced, granting free access to the show and making it more accessible for all.
New Show Entrance Location
The entrance to the show has been relocated to a new spot adjacent to the West Quay Showcase Cinema, replacing the previous location along Southampton’s Town Walls. This new entry point offers easier access and a refreshed starting experience for visitors.
Address
Harbour Parade
Southampton
SO15 1BA
Opening times
The Southampton International Boat Show – Full Site
13 – 21 September 2024 – 10:00-18:00
22 September 2024 – 10:00-17:00
Shipyard Only: Music, food, sport & entertainment
14th & 21st September 2024 – 10:00-21:00
Southampton Boat Show tickets can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/
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