21/7/2025
The Rustic Chef, Martin Dawkins, will headline the Southampton International Boat Show’s new ‘Chefs Ahoy!’ stage, serving up daily delicious ways to cook onboard, no matter what your galley setup.
The debut feature will take place within the show’s new Boating Academy, where Martin will showcase a variety of seafaring recipes using exhibitor products such as virgin olive oils from Two&One and wild-fermented Hydes Cyder, visitors will then have the chance to buy the products used on stage.
“Life aboard a boat means that cooking needs to be practical – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful” Martin says. “With a compact grill or a two-burner stove, you can create meals that are full of life and flavour. A portable grill is a great investment, especially one designed for boat use. With just a few skewers of marinated prawns, some grilled vegetables in foil, or a whole fish seasoned with herbs and lemon, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal cleanup.”
Martin was mentored by chefs such as Marcus Wareing at Petrus and Alex Aitken at Le Poussin, and champions local, sustainable ingredients to celebrate seasonal flavours.
“One of the most rewarding parts of cooking onboard is how naturally it aligns with sustainable, seasonal living. Sourcing seafood responsibly and relying on local produce isn’t just a passing trend – it’s essential for maintaining the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems and supporting the coastal communities that depend on them,” Martin continues. “When you choose fresh, local ingredients, you’re not only treating yourself to better flavour and nutrition, you’re casting a vote for healthier oceans and resilient food systems.
The ‘Chefs Ahoy!’ stage will also feature the Good Evans Kitchen, an award-winning cookery school based in Hampshire, plus Jay Geddes and Gary Morton Jones, otherwise known as the Dishy Dads, with their groan-worthy puns and terrible dance moves.
“Our goal for the Southampton International Boat Show is simple: feed bellies and funny bones,” Jay concludes.
Also joining the lineup is Joshie Man (Josh Harris), a young autistic chef who communicates non-verbally and shares his passion for cooking through the campaign Let Them Have Their Voices, led by his father. Joshie now travels across the UK, learning from top chefs and sharing simple, delicious recipes. His story is about more than food, it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring others. He’s excited to show how fun and easy onboard cooking can be.
Chefs Ahoy! will also serve as a spotlight for a selection of local South Coast producers, offering everything from fresh seafood to zingy sauces and award-winning gins, crafted with natural ingredients and traditional methods. Whether you’re looking to discover new flavours or savour local favourites, there’s something for every palate.
With opportunities to taste, learn, shop, and engage directly with chefs and producers, The Chefs Ahoy! stage is the perfect spot to take a break from browsing boats and immerse yourself in the culinary side of sailing.
Catch Martin Dawkins and friends daily at the Boating Academy throughout the Southampton International Boat Show 2025 and get ready to sail away with a full stomach and plenty of inspiration.
