23/7/2026
The Southampton International Boat Show has announced the RNLI as its Charity of the Year for 2026, bringing together two organisations with a shared commitment to helping people enjoy the water safely.
As the charity that saves lives at sea, the RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat crews, beach lifeguards, water safety advisers and international teams work tirelessly every day to rescue those in danger while promoting water safety through education and prevention. Throughout this year’s Show, visitors will have the opportunity to discover more about the charity’s work, meet the people behind the rescue service and support its lifesaving mission.
“The RNLI is delighted to be the chosen charity partner of the Southampton International Boat Show 2026. The show presents the perfect opportunity for the RNLI to connect with boating enthusiasts and showcase our lifesaving mission. We’re proud to present the latest developments within our Lifeboat fleet by exhibiting the latest Shannon Class All Weather Lifeboat and the new Atlantic 85 MK IV, and the funds raised through the generosity of the public, will go directly towards saving lives at sea.” Steve Hulbert, Senior Commercial Partnerships Manager of RNLI.
As part of the partnership, visitors booking tickets for this year’s Southampton International Boat Show will be able to make an optional donation to the RNLI, helping to ensure its crews can continue to respond whenever and wherever they are needed most.
RNLI Show Highlights
The RNLI’s programme at this year’s Show includes the opportunity to step aboard its lifeboats, hear from its engineering experts and learn practical water safety skills.
One of the highlights will be the chance to go aboard the Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, which will be moored within the Show’s purpose-built marina. Visitors will also be able to see the new Atlantic 85 Mk4 up close, featuring the latest Raymarine navigation and communication technology which supports RNLI crews during lifesaving rescues in some of the most challenging conditions.
On the Show’s Boating Stage, the RNLI’s Engineering & Supply Team will be providing insights into the development of the Atlantic 85 Mk4, exploring the engineering, innovation and technology behind the next generation of lifesaving.
Learn vital water safety skills
Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a watersports enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time by the coast, the RNLI stand (stand H38) will be the place to pick up practical water safety advice. Visitors will be able to speak to RNLI experts, discover how to stay safe on and around the water and learn what to do if the unexpected happens.
“The RNLI is an organisation that commands enormous respect across the marine industry, and we’re honoured to welcome it as the Southampton International Boat Show’s Charity of the Year for 2026,” said Earle Stanner, Chief Executive Officer of British Marine.
“The work carried out by its volunteers and teams saves lives every day, while its commitment to education and prevention helps more people enjoy the water safely. We’re proud to support the RNLI’s vital mission and to help raise awareness of its work throughout this year’s Show.”
As Charity of the Year, the RNLI will play an important role throughout this year’s Southampton International Boat Show, giving visitors the opportunity to explore its lifeboats, learn valuable water safety advice and gain a greater understanding of the charity’s lifesaving work. Through optional ticket donations and activities at the Show, visitors can also help support the RNLI in continuing its mission to save lives at sea.
