2026 Show Overview

The UK’s Ultimate Marine Festival

The Southampton International Boat Show is back on 18-25 September 2027 for eight days of boating, watersports and entertainment on the waterfront. Whether you’re looking to buy your first boat, upgrade or improve your current one, or simply enjoy a great day out, you’ll find hundreds of boats, hands-on water activities, expert advice and live entertainment, all in one incredible marine event.

Not sure where to start? Take a look at our personal Show Guides to discover the boats, activities, advice and experiences most relevant to you.


2026 SHOW OVERVIEW

Show Marina

Our purpose-built show marina hosted over 250 exceptional crafts - a standout on-water showcase.

Attraction Boats

Visitors stepped aboard a collection of showstopping attraction boats and discovered the stories that made each one unique.

Powerhub

The Powerhub, powered by powerboatandrib.com, was the place for all things powerboating. Visitors explored the latest powerboats, met leading brands and discovered the equipment, technology and expertise to help them get more from life on the water. Whether they were looking for their next boat, upgrading their current set-up or simply seeing what’s new, they found plenty to explore.

Try-a-Boat

Try-a-Boat is a visitor favourite for a reason. Visitors were offered the chance to get out on the water and try a range of boating experiences, all included in ticket price.

The Lake

Why stay on land when you can take to the water? Paddleboarding and kayaking sessions were available throughout the show courtesy of Rockley Watersports, and were included in ticket price.
The Ghostship and Sailing Solice hosted your favourite sailing Youtubers, such as Mothership Adrift, Ship Happens, Saving Blue Steel, Jazz Turner and Sailing Project Parrot. Visitors could enjoy talks, live podcasts, Q&As and the chance to climb aboard both boats in the Show Marina.

Andark Dive Tank

Andark celebrated 50 years! Visitors experienced diving with state-of-the-art gear, guided every step of the way by expert instructors. Once done, they could freshen up with convenient on-site changing facilities.

The Shipyard

Live music was played every day with an expanded evening entertainment programme at the Shipyard Stage.

The Boating Stage

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned boater, the Boating Stage programme offered practical tips and techniques from record breakers, boating professionals, and sailing legends.

The Wooden Boat Stage

Following a successful debut in 2025, the Wooden Boat Stage returned bigger than ever for 2026, organised by Women in Boat Building, Wooden Boatbuilders' Trade Association and Boat Building Academy.

The Wooden Boat Stage Afloat

The Wooden Boat Stage Afloat gave visitors the opportunity to get up close to a stunning collection of classic and wooden boats on the water, offering a unique perspective on the beautiful watercraft.

SailGP

Visitors competed for the fastest time around a SailGP racecourse on the desktop simulator – without capsizing! Plus, they experienced an F50 in VR and took on the physical demands of the Grinding Challenge.

BBMF Flypast

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) took to the skies above the show.

HMS Collingwood

The Royal Navy Volunteer Band of HMS Collingwood returned to the show, bringing their unmistakable sound to the waterfront again. ⁠

Show Charity of the Year: RNLI

We're proud to have supported the RNLI as our Charity of the Year for 2026.

Kids Activities

Families enjoyed a packed programme of exciting on and off-water activities, with plenty to keep young adventurers engaged.

Premium Experience

Make your visit to the Southampton International Boat Show truly unforgettable with the Premium experience! Get exclusive access to the private Waterside Lounge, treat yourself to a delicious lunch, and make the most of extra perks that take your day on the waterfront to the next level. Tickets for 2027 are not available yet. Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when tickets go live.

School Trips

Schools, colleges and universities are also invited to bring students to the show for Schools & Careers Days. Complimentary group tickets will be available, subject to registration.

Food and Drink

Street-food options to suit every taste, and pints poured to perfection at the Guinness Bar.

STAY IN THE KNOW

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news, stories and event information.