12/8/2025
This year’s Southampton International Boat Show offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and try new activities. Enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and dinghy sailing, all provided by Rockley Watersports. For a taste of something different, step into the Andark Dive Tank to try scuba diving for the first time or test the latest gear, all with expert guidance.
One of the show’s highlights is the Try-a-Boat experience, where you can get hands-on with a variety of top boats and find the one that suits you best. From sleek cruisers to high-performance RIBs, you’ll be able to get a taste of what it’s like to be out on the open water.
Here is a rundown of the top of the range craft available at the Try-a-Boat this year:
The Axopar 37XC is a perfect blend of luxury and performance. Powered by twin 300-horsepower engines, it can reach speeds of up to 40 knots, making it ideal for anyone who enjoys a thrilling day on the water. With a spacious cabin, forward lounge, and a hardtop roof, this boat offers comfort, style, and practicality. It is perfect for a relaxing family day trip or a high-speed adventure with friends.
For those looking for a responsive and comfortable sailing experience, the Hanse 348 is an ideal choice. Its self-tacking jib system allows for easy handling, even if you are sailing alone. The interior is designed to maximise space, with large windows offering panoramic views of the water. This yacht is perfect for long coastal cruises or weekend getaways.
The Brabus Line Axopar 28 Cabin is built for those who crave both speed and style. With twin Mercury 200hp engines, it can reach speeds of up to 45 knots, offering an exhilarating ride on the water. The cabin combines luxury with functionality, and the boat’s agility ensures an exciting, responsive experience.
The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 “Dragon” is a sleek, modern cruiser that blends performance, comfort, and safety, making it ideal for both coastal cruising and longer passages. Its twin rudder design and hard chine hull offer superb stability and responsiveness under sail. Below deck, the boat features a surprisingly spacious interior with ample natural light, quality finishes, and clever storage solutions ensuring it is perfect for weekend escapes or extended adventures with friends and family.
The FlexiSail team will be on hand to take you through the unique features of your chosen vessel and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the water.
You’ll also have the chance to experience the thrill of sailing on a Clipper 70 race yacht, capable of reaching record-breaking speeds of up to 35 knots, with trips running at 1pm on both Saturdays and Sundays of the show. For something even more adrenaline-fueled, hop aboard Team Endeavour Racing’s high-speed RIBs for an unforgettable ride. The team will also be demonstrating their powerboat racing skills live on the On-the-Water Stage and sharing inspiring stories about their work with veterans.
The Wetwheels Foundation returns for another year to share their fully accessible boat. Giving disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages the chance to experience the water and even take to the helm under the highly qualified supervision of their instructors.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor wanting to sharpen your skills, a family seeking new adventures, or simply curious about the boating lifestyle, now’s the time to book your tickets and secure your place at the UK’s largest celebration of boating and watersports.
Discover more about these on-the-water experiences here: https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/on-the-water-activities/
