10 REASONS TO VISIT THE SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

You will be able to ask your burning questions and socialise with like-minded people. Each session lasts half an hour and is the perfect place for you to sit and relax and enjoy informative, amusing and inspirational talks from a variety of speakers.

5. New Products and Technologies: Amongst the 600+ exhibitors you will find some of the latest innovations in boating technology, equipment and design. The show provides the perfect showcase for manufacturers to debut their newest models and products, giving you the chance to keep up with the latest trends.

6. Activities and Attractions: It is not just about the boats; the show boasts a whole range of attractions to ensure you have a great day out. The spectacular watersports show is a must see with the jaw dropping flightboard display and gravity defying flyboard demo. Check out the brand new ‘Canoe Lake’, where you can try out SUP’ing and kayaking, canoeing and model boating, you may even bump into an Olympian or two! Plus, enjoy a whole host of delicious food and drink venues including the waterfront Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, the newly revamped Guinness Bar or the new ‘Shipyard’ with live music providing the festival vibe.

7. Shop ‘til you drop: If you are in the market for a boat, the show provides a unique opportunity to browse a vast selection of craft side by side and speak to experts to find your perfect match. Alongside the boats themselves, and back by popular demand, is the UK’s largest pop-up chandlery; with more retailers and chandlery stands than ever before you will find everything from the latest clothing, footwear, beachwear and accessories to specialist chandlery items such as shackles, ropes, electronics and engines and everything in between.

Get your ticket

The 54th edition of the Southampton International Boat Show returns to Mayflower Park over 15 - 24 September. The biggest UK marine festival and one of Europe’s largest on-water events, the show attracts thousands of visitors and boasts some 600+ exhibitors, hundreds of boats, plus an array of attractions and exclusive show features.

To whet your appetite here are just a few of the many great reasons to pay a visit to this year’s show:

1. Boats galore: With everything from stand-up paddleboards to kayaks, small dinghies to luxurious superyachts, if you are crazy about boats or just dipping you toe in the water, it is a perfect place to see many different types of boats in one place. The spectacular purpose-built show marina berths hundreds of the world’s most prestigious sailing and power boats, as well as high-end tender and chase boats. You will find cutting edge craft from across the global, witness world, European and UK launches of new craft; there really is something for everyone.

2. Get wet if you want to: The On the Water Zone is an action-packed area where you can give it a go for free. There is Try-a-Boat where you can sail a yacht, take the throttle of a motorboat or feel the power of a RIB blasting around Southampton Water under the watchful eyes of qualified instructors. Or, try your hand at single or double handed dinghy sailing, grab a friend and try out the double kayaks or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding with the whole family with Get Afloat. You can even enjoy a mini cruise onboard the Ocean Scene.

For a small additional price, Try-a-Boat+ provides the opportunity to stay out on the water longer aboard some of the most adventurous boats at the show, including Thalassa, a 47m Dutch tall ship. Step aboard and back in time as you channel your inner pirate for this tall ship adventure, a firm favourite of kids of all ages! More boats are being added to the Try-a-Boat+ line up all the time, so check the website for full details (www.southamptonboatshow.com).

3. Specialist ‘Zones’: Mini ‘shows within the show’ zones make it easy to find exactly what you are looking for. In the ‘Watersports Zone’ you will get your fix of unlimited watersports action. From stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, wakeboards and water-skis to group activities on the water. With expert guidance on all areas, whether you are just dipping your toe in or a fanatic, there is something for everyone. The ‘Dinghy Zone’ is the place to see all areas of sport and sailing dinghies, trailer boats cruisers, boat builders, high-performance equipment, sailing clubs, holiday providers and training options all in one place. Whilst the ‘Classic & Day Boat Zone’ celebrates the boats and craftsmanship that stand the test of time. Classic boat enthusiasts and seasoned boaters will be able to find all the equipment they need to keep their treasures gliding across the water. From modern boats inspired by traditional designs and craftsmanship to beautifully restored classics you will find an array of beautiful craft.

4. Hear from the experts: The Foredeck Stage is home to leading experts sharing their knowledge and insight on a whole host of boating related topics.

Adult tickets are on sale from £26 with up to 2 children aged 15 and under permitted free entry to the show with every paying adult. For a full breakdown of ticket costs and packages please visit www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitorinformation/tickets. Plus, see our special ticket offer on page 24. Enjoy the show in style with the Quayside Club VIP experience. For guests looking for the ultimate VIP treatment, visit www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip.

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

To keep up with the latest news and announcements, follow the Southampton International Boat Show on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to this year’s Southampton International Boat Show see the next page.

8. Great day out for all the family: The show offers something for the whole family. The kids will love the Treasure Hunt, searching for clues around the show and stepping onboard a real-life pirate ship! While for the grown-ups it is a great place to catch up with friends and family and enjoy all the show has to offer.

9. Add a touch of luxury with Quayside Club VIP: Upgrade your visit with a VIP ticket and enjoy exclusive access to the Quayside Club Waterfront lounge. Situated in a prime location overlooking the marina, the lounge guarantees some of the very best seats in the show, where you can sit back and relax with a delicious welcome drink, enjoy the gourmet buffet lunch, take a coffee break or enjoy your favourite tipple.

10. Beautiful location: Southampton is a historic city with a rich maritime heritage. You can combine your visit to the boat show with exploration of the city’s attractions. From the SeaCity Museum – the home of Southampton’s Titanic story to adding a splash of culture with a trip to Southampton City Art Gallery.

Remember, the events, exhibitors and attractions can change from year to year, so make sure you check the website to see what is on when, so you can plan your day and make the most of your visit. Visit www.southamptonboatshow.com for all the latest show information.

British Marine is the trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry. It has over 1,500 members from both seagoing and inland sectors and represents an industry which employs more than 38,700 people in the UK. British Marine also owns and operates the Southampton International Boat Show. For more information about the work of British Marine and how to join, please visit the website: www.britishmarine.co.uk or follow British Marine on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.