Get Out On The Water

More opportunities than ever before to get out on the water and enjoy action-packed fun for all the family!

From stand-up paddleboarding to dinghy sailing, the thrill of powerboating to cruising the Solent you’ll find it all at the Southampton International Boat Show.


What To Look Out For

Try-a-Boat in partnership with FlexiSail

Glide across the waters under sail or hurtle out across the Solent in a high-speed RIB. It’s free and offers something for everyone!

Get Afloat in partnership with Rockley Watersports

Enjoy dinghy sailing, kayaking or paddleboarding and pick up top tips from the experts. It’s free and all equipment including wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided.

Try-a-Boat+

Stay out on the water for longer and experience life aboard some of the most adventurous and historically unique boats at the show. (Prices from £20).

Our Top Picks

Mini Cruise

Step aboard the show’s very own cruise ship which departs from the marina twice an hour, taking visitors on a mini cruise around the Solent. Fully equipped with sundecks, bars and on-board facilities, you’ll enjoy a relaxed and completely free 20-minute voyage.

Try A Dive

Learn how to dive for free in our very own dive tank! Brought to you by Andark, all the equipment you’ll need will be provided, as well as an area to change into your diving kit. Under the guidance of instructors, complete beginners will be able to experience diving for the first time, whilst seasoned PADI pros will be able to try out the very latest kit.

Watersports Lake

Brand new for 2023, we are constructing a watersports lake for you to try out all the latest equipment on. The lake will have it all, kayaks, canoes and even model boats! If that's not enough for you, why not have a go at SUP yoga?