Speakers and Talks

Hear from the Voices Shaping the Marine World

This year’s Southampton International Boat Show welcomes a fascinating line-up of speakers from across the marine world.

Hear from record-breaking sailors, ocean conservationists, and boating experts, each with their own unique story to share. Join us to hear first-hand from the people who live and breathe life on the water.

Meet the first wave of inspiring speakers joining us at the show…

Stages

The Boating Academy

New to boating or ready to level up your skills? Join expert-led talks and demonstrations designed to build confidence and sharpen techniques, whatever your experience.

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The Cockpit, presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine

New for 2025! Celebrate the best in speed, innovation, and marine engineering at The Cockpit Stage, presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine, where performance takes centre stage.

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The Wooden Boat Stage

The Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association, the Boat Building Academy, and Women in Boatbuilding come together to showcase wooden boatbuilding through inspiring talks, live demos, and practical workshops.

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Chefs Ahoy!

A live demo kitchen with expert chefs sharing clever, delicious ways to cook onboard - no matter your galley setup.

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Speaker Line-up

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

Sailing legend and co-founder of Clipper Ventures, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first to solo circumnavigate the globe, joins the Southampton International Boat Show to share his iconic story of adventure, resilience, and survival at sea.

Nicky Vaux

Global boating voice Nicky Vaux, The Boat Princess, will share stories and insights drawn from both her industry expertise and personal boating experience, helping you navigate ownership, syndication, and club models with confidence.

Conrad Humphreys

Conrad, a triple round-the-world yachtsman, is coming to share his recreation of one of Britain’s greatest survival stories: Captain Bligh’s 4,000-mile journey after the Mutiny on the Bounty. He’s even bringing the 23ft replica launch from the Channel 4 series Mutiny.

Geoff Holt MBE

Geoff Holt MBE, record-breaking sailor and founder of Wetwheels, shares how inclusive access to the sea transforms lives, empowering disabled people through adventure, independence, and maritime connection.

Mark Ashley-Miller

Mark has sailed over 9,000 miles to visit every harbour master in the British Isles, raising over £30,000 for charity along the way. He’ll be bringing his boat, The Good Dog, to the show, so you can climb aboard and hear the story of his unique journey.

Mike Ellicock

Mike is the first person to row around Britain via the Great Glen — an epic 1,812-mile journey that made history and raised vital funds for Support Our Paras. Mike is heading to the Show with his boat, Pegasus, to share the story behind this extraordinary feat.

Ben Sutcliffe-Davies

Ben writes for both Yachting Monthly and Practical Boat Owner, come and join him for a light-hearted informative presentation that follows The Marine Surveyors Notebook (his successful You Tube Channel).

Gilbert Park

Gilbert Park, a respected writer for Practical Boat Owner, is someone who truly appreciates what boating is all about… slowing down, enjoying the sights, and savouring the simple joy of being on the water.

David Henshall

David "Dougal" Henshall, renowned British sailing historian and author, will take you on a captivating journey through the rich and fascinating history of the RYA. Dougal’s engaging storytelling will bring sailing’s most iconic moments to life. 

Julia Jones

Julia Jones is the Literary Editor for Yachting Monthly magazine and classic yacht owner, who is coming to tell the stories of over 100 women sailors throughout history. Sailing has often seemed to be a male dominated activity, but women have been on board all along.

Paul Tetlow

Find expert advice on boat selection, preparation, and training with Paul, the Managing Director of sailing rally organisers World Cruising Club. Paul has sailed across the world and is coming to turn your offshore dreams into reality.

Sarah Donohue

Motivational speaker, ocean conservationist, and stunt double for Cameron Diaz. Sarah Donohue is coming to the show to share her love of marine conservation and powerboat racing, as one of few women in this male domain.

Max Liberson

Freelance yacht captain, Max Liberson is coming to the show to tell his tale of refitting and renovating a £1 boat and sailing it to the Caribbean.