29/5/2024
To help you find exactly what you are looking for, the Southampton International Boat Show is made up of zones. Each zone is a mini ‘show within the show’ dedicated to a particular type of boating or activity.
Here we take a closer look at the different zones and what you’ll find as you navigate your way around the show…be prepared, we have so much to tell you!
Watersports Zone
In the ‘Watersports Zone’, located at the entrance to the show, you’ll get your fix of unlimited watersports action. You’ll find everything 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 watersports super fan, there is something for everyone.
We see the return of the Watersports Lake – sponsored by Towergate Insurance. This year, in partnership with Rockley Watersports, we will be offering even more sessions to accommodate the growing interest. Whether you’re looking to improve your paddling skills or try kayaking for the first time, Rockley’s professional team is there to support every stroke with the best equipment and safety measures.
The Watersports Zone will be crammed full of the top watersports’ brands, from Two Bare Feet and Lorima, to Sandbanks Style and O’Neill, to mention just a few. But with hundreds of exhibitors, whether you’re looking for the essentials to get started or the very latest tech and gadgets, with so many brands in a single location, it’s a great place to compare different products and find what’s right for you. You can see, touch, and often test the newest watersports equipment on the market. This can give you an idea of what’s available, how different pieces of equipment work, and what you might need to get started.
Plus, the show is also a great place to find some great deals on essential kit, with special boat show promotions, offering discounts on equipment and gear you might snag yourself some bargains.
With a whole host of watersport professionals, experts, and enthusiasts attending the show it also makes for a fantastic opportunity to get advice and guidance about lots of different watersports, the skills required, tips on how to get started and what it’s like to participate in them. With all this knowledge at their fingertips they can also help recommend the best equipment to start with and where to get the appropriate training.
And, if you fancy getting your hair as well as your feet wet, then check out the Andark Dive tank, where you can try a diving or snorkelling for free. It’s an excellent opportunity for beginners and seasoned divers alike to explore beneath the surface with professional guidance and top-of-the-line equipment.
Dinghy Zone
The ‘Dinghy Zone’ is the place to be to see sport and sailing dinghies, trailer boats, cruisers, boat builders, high-performance equipment, sailing clubs, holiday providers and training options all in one place.
From youngsters looking for their first boat, fun family cruising dinghies to the very latest in cutting edge technology for dedicated racers, you will find dinghies of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking to buy or want to find out about rental options we have boats to suit all budgets. Look out for leading brands including Topper, Fusion Sailboats, Rooster and many more.
If you’re looking for helpful advice and inspiration, there will be a whole host of dinghy experts on hand offering advice and top tips to help you find the right dinghy for you. In the Dinghy Zone you can see, try, and buy, it all.
With more chandlery options than ever before you will find everything you need from ropes, foils and sails to bungs, blocks, shackles and burgees, you’ll have access to an unbeatable range of chandlery and essential boating supplies. You’ll also find a wide range of clothing products and accessories suitable for all abilities. From technical clothing including high performance sailing smocks, trousers or dry suits, to casual clothing including polo shirts, shore jackets, deck shoes and more.
So, if you love dinghy sailing, you’ll find it all and much more in the Dinghy Zone.
Classic & Dayboat Zone, powered by Classic Boat Magazine
From luggers to day boats, gaff rig clinker classics to sleek launches with electric propulsion systems, opportunities to learn classic boat building skills, getting hands-on with ropemaking and knot tying, there’s something for everybody in the ‘Classic & Day Boat Zone’, powered by Classic Boat Magazine.
In this zone we celebrate 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’ll find an array of beautiful craft in this zone. Look out for Drascombe Boats, Seaspray Boats, Lakeland Wooden Boats, Willow Bay Boats and many more.
Alongside admiring the sleek lines of stunningly designed and built classic boats, you can also get hands-on, watching and learning the age-old traditional boat building skills required to make these craft. The staff and students from the International Boat Building Training College, will be building a classic boat throughout the show demonstrating all aspects from steam bending wood through to carving and routing.
If you’ve ever fancied making a monkey’s fist, a lanyard or rope fender, or just want to learn how to tie knots, then our experts will be on hand to give you all the tips to create your own masterpieces.
And remember, classic doesn’t always mean ‘old fashioned’, so, whether it’s getting to grips with knot tying and rigging, learning some fettling and boat building skills, understanding the latest in electric and hybrid propulsion or satisfying a shopping urge, there really is something for everyone – whatever your age or interest.
On The Water Zone
A show favourite, 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 step aboard various types of boats, from nimble RIBs to elegant sailboats, under the guidance of Flexisail’s expert instructors. This hands-on experience is designed to provide a real taste of maritime life, perfect for comparing different boating styles and finding your sea legs.
Or try your hand at dinghy sailing with ‘Get Afloat’. Powered by Rockley Watersports, this experience allows you to set sail on dinghy joyrides. With expert instructors from Rockley, beginners and experienced sailors alike can navigate the waves in top-tier dinghies, ensuring a safe yet thrilling adventure on the water.
If you fancy something a little more laid back, then you can even enjoy a mini cruise. Enjoy a tranquil voyage around the Solent on the Ocean Scene, offering stunning views from its sundecks and refreshments from onboard bars. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and maritime beauty.
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 the ‘Thalassa’, a 47m Dutch tall ship (VIP experience also available). 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 please check the website for full details www.southamptonboatshow.com
Mayflower Park
Step into Mayflower Park and discover a world of leading brands, innovative boats and unforgettable experiences. You’ll find exhibitors galore with stands packed with clothing, chandlery goods and unique accessories. See the latest in engines and technology, useful gadgets and boats galore, from the likes of Typhoon, Nauticalia, Marlow Rope, Boatfolk, Quicksilver, Barrus and many, many more.
Visit the Foredeck Stage, sponsored by Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly, located in Ocean Hall, to hear from leading experts sharing their knowledge and insight on a whole host of boating related topics. You’ll be able to ask your burning questions and socialise with likeminded 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.
This year we are welcoming some of the biggest names from within the boating community to help us celebrate our 55th event.
Among the legends already confirmed are 4-time Paralympian (Sailing), Triple World Champion, Motivational Speaker and Coach, Hannah Stodel, legendary yacht designer Tony Castro and Maiden Skipper, Heather Thomas, to name just a few.
We’ll also hear from Pump and Wing Foiling Champion Hugo Dobrijevic, Expedition Zero, the world’s lowest environmental impact commercial sailing yachts and Sophi Horne, Norwegian designer and the originator of the initial Racebird concept and driving force behind the innovative electric foiling raceboat used in E1. As well as former Director of Hunter boats of Essex and well-known yachting journalist Peter Poland, Yachting Monthly columnist, Dick Durham, and Professional Ropeworker and co-founder of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, Des Pawson MBE, with even more speakers being announced all the time. Visit the website for the latest names and full speaker schedule.
There are also some great spots to rest, relax and refuel including the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant where you can enjoy the exclusive Quarterdeck burger by two Michelin starred chef, Jordan Bailey, as well as the show’s famous Guinness Bar. Drop by for a pint of mild stout, alongside other cold drinks, tasty street food and sweet treats.
Mayflower Park is also home to the show’s VIP lounge, The Quayside Club. Upgrade your visit with a VIP ticket and enjoy exclusive access to the Quayside Club Waterfront lounge. Overlooking the marina and On the Water stage, the lounge guarantees some of the very best seats in the show. Sit back and relax with a delicious welcome drink, enjoy mouth-watering cuisine from our remarkable chef, Jonas Lodge, who will guide you through a world of culinary excellence with his dishes curated especially for the Southampton International Boat Show, plus complimentary drinks* throughout the day.
(*Complimentary drinks include: all draught, house and sparkling wine, all soft drinks, tea and coffee, single house spirits and mixers.)
You will also find the British Marine Members Lounge and the Media Centre situated within Mayflower Park.
The Shipyard
Bringing the festival vibe to the show the Shipyard is the epicentre of entertainment and a must-visit destination as part of your show experience. Here, you’ll find an array of live music performances, delectable street food, and captivating entertainment.
This year, we’re taking the festivities up a notch as we launch our all-new late-night Saturdays at The Shipyard, delivered by GAC Pindar. The party continuing under the stars until 9 pm, allowing every moment at the show to be filled with joy and music.
The legendary Chris Moyles takes over the decks on Saturday, September 14 for our opening party. Starting at approximately 7 pm, prepare for a “90s Hangover” party that will have you dancing the night away to the biggest hits of the decade. While headlining the show’s closing party on Saturday 22 September, will be the incredible Symphonic Ibiza. Prepare for a night of electric energy as Ibiza’s finest dance anthems meet the thrilling harmonies of a live orchestra.
Throughout the week the Shipyard stage will host a diverse lineup including, a special Beatles Dub Club DJ set that reimagines The Fab Four, and the iconic sounds of ABBA performed by the acclaimed tribute band, Mamma Mania.
For details of the full line-up and performance dates and times visit The Shipyard.And there’s more! Alongside all this amazing music, The Shipyard will also bring you the action live from the America’s Cup, with special guests direct from Barcelona, alongside live UK and international sport, including football, cricket and F1, on the Shipyard’s big screens.
Plus an array of mouth-watering street food from renowned vendors like, Chicken and Blues, The Mac Shack, Seawise, The Duck Shed and Heard Burger to name just a few.
On The Water Stage – breath-taking stunts and heart-stopping action
Expect to be wowed and impressed! With high-octane stunt demos, our world class team of extreme sports professionals is set – yet again – to amaze and entertain the whole family in an adrenaline-packed shows. Simply head to our On The Water Stage and see them unleash their incredible high-flying and mind-boggling tricks.
Marvel at the incredible backflips, rolls and tricks of professional jet skier, world champion and daredevil Jack Moule.
Watch with bated breath when renowned Flyboarder James Prestwood speeds over the water, performing backflips, spins, twists, supermans, dolphin dives, slaloms at heights of up to 60 feet in the air in an epic display.
Plus, new to the lineup, Wingfoiling, a sport taking the water world by storm. With Hugo Dobrijevic at the helm, spectators will witness the cutting-edge of hydrofoil technology combined with the finesse of windsurfing, surfing, and kitesurfing, you have to see it to believe it!
Grab a seat on the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant terrace or Quayside Club to enjoy all the action!
Marina
As Europe’s largest, temporary, purpose-build show marina you’ll find more than 350 boats of all types, shapes and sizes from all over the world on display – making it the perfect place to find your ideal boat.
With halyards clacking against masts, flags fluttering in the breeze, and sunshine (hopefully) reflecting off shining decks, there’s nothing more exciting than spending time on the pontoons at the boat show. You can fully explore a wide variety of different craft from all over the world, inside and out and side by side. From massive superyachts, to foiling powerboats; blue water cruisers, adventure and explorer powerboats, seaworthy fishing boats, tenders and toys, the options are endless. Look out for leading brands such as Sunseeker, Beneteau, Suzuki, Bavaria, Fairline, Hanse, J Boats, Princess Yachts, Arcona, Ruster… the list goes on and on!
To help make it even easier to find and compare all these amazing craft, this year the marina is undergoing a significant layout redesign focusing on a more zonal approach grouping different categories of boats more logically. Increasing the available berths and expanding space for demonstrations by over 20%, ensuring visitors have the chance to test the waters in their dream boat.
The marina is also home to a whole host of attraction boats, including the tall ship Thalassa. Look out for details of our full line up of attraction boats as and when they are announced.
With so much to see and do you’re sure to have an action-packed day at the Southampton International Boat Show. And remember, you don’t have to pick a favourite, you can visit them all!
