ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2022
SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW T
1
It is September which, of course, means marine companies from all around the world will be showcasing their products and services at the Southampton International Boat Show.
he Southampton International Boat Show is the biggest UK marine festival and one of Europe’s largest on-water events. Attracting more than 103,000 visitors, it is a showcase for everything the leisure marine industry has to offer and provides an exciting family day out with many opportunities for all ages to get afloat. Back in July show organisers British Marine revealed that 98 per cent of the available exhibitor space had already been filled, despite the show having a larger footprint than ever before. So, with more than 550 exhibitors, hundreds of boats, plus many attractions and show features, from tall ships to dinghies, paddleboards to fliteboards, kayaks to catamarans, SUPs to superyachts, there really is somethings for everyone whether experienced boaters or newcomers to the world of boating. Visitors will be able to enjoy exciting and innovative on water and land-based displays and talks, with opportunities to ask the experts and chat with likeminded enthusiasts, or just relax at the hospitality areas.
QUAYSIDE CLUB
For the first time visitors can add an additional touch of luxury to their visit with the launch of the Quayside Club. Choosing from three VIP packages – White Sea, Coral Sea and Black Sea - those attending the show can enhance their experience with access to luxury VIP extras. The Quayside Club White Sea VIP package includes an official meet and greet on arrival, show entry, a tour of the deluxe Waterfront Lounge, plus complimentary drinks and snacks. The Coral Sea package adds a gourmet buffet lunch overlooking the marina. For the ultimate in luxury, the Black Sea option provides VIP parking at the heart of the show and access to the On the Water stage private enclosure where you can watch the fantastic demonstrations. Furthermore, Black Sea ticket holders can
since 2019, so we felt now was the time to launch this event. So many people describe being in open water as a liberating experience and we liken this to the freedom hydrotherapy gives to the children and young people we support at Rose Road. The event will raise vital funds for activities such as hydrotherapy, overnight respite care and school holiday clubs for disabled people.” Swimmers will gain entry to the show before it opens to the public and will be able to enjoy all it offers after their swim too.
YOUR SHOW
sign up to an on the water boat experience and enjoy a trip on one of five unique craft, including the F8 Landing Craft. All VIP guests will also have the opportunity to take a tour of the show and will have access to a dedicated coat and bag drop off area. British Marine CEO, Lesley Robinson said: “This new addition will provide visitors with an exclusive luxury experience never seen at the show before. We are confident our new VIP tickets will add an amazing new dynamic, alongside all that the show, the exhibitors and the industry has to offer.”
ENVIRONMENTAL INNOVATION SHOWCASE
This year sees an increased focus on sustainability and protecting the environment, with more craft on show being made from recyclable aluminium and with reduced packaging waste. As part of the show's green focus, new for 2022 is the Environmental Innovation Showcase, which will be located in Ocean Hall. With exhibitors invited to submit entries it will shine a spotlight on the best of the marine industry’s new
environmental products, highlighting how the industry is becoming greener and cleaner and what we can all do to become more environmentally conscious boaters. Lesley Robinson explained: “This showcase will demonstrate the commitment that not only SIBS and British Marine have to the environment but also that our exhibitors continue to be a driving force in the journey to net zero and will hopefully be a source of inspiration for all businesses in the marine sector.” A judging panel, which included, Mike Golding OBE (Patron of The Green Blue), Phil Horton (RYA Environment & Sustainability Manager) and Kate Fortnam (Campaign Manager, The Green Blue), reviewed the entrants before selecting the products and services that will be exhibited.
EXHIBITOR ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS
In 2018, in a show of commitment to marine conservation, British Marine pledged a longterm plan to minimise the environmental impact of the Southampton International Boat Show. As well as using the event as a platform for change, they help raise awareness of the plight of the world’s oceans.
So, the Exhibitor Environmental Awards are returning for the fourth year recognising exceptional exhibitors who have embraced environmentally responsible behaviour and sustainable work practices both during and outside the show. The winner will be presented with their award by Mike Golding on the opening day (16 September) on the Foredeck Stage at 11.30am. However, all entrants will receive a plaque to display during the show to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Previous winners include RS Sailing, Spirit Yachts, Bentley Motors and Premier Marinas.
BOAT SHOW SWIM
Another first for this year is the Southampton International Boat Show Swim which will see 125 swimmers take to Southampton water early in the morning of 18 September to raise money for local charity the Rose Road Association (www. roseroad.org.uk). They will swim 1.25km in the iconic Southampton docks, past tall ships and superyachts. Chloe Atkins, head of fundraising at the charity, said: “Participation in outdoor swimming in the UK is reported to have increased by between 1.5 and three times
With more opportunities than ever to get afloat, there is plenty to enjoy shoreside too. Experience the show ‘zones’ showcasing different types of watersports activities, watch thrilling on water displays at the On the Water Stage, check out some of the biggest brands from chandlery and clothing to gadgets and lifestyle essentials, or simply take time out and enjoy family entertainment. So, whether it is engines, electronics or safety equipment; SUPs, kayaks or classic dinghies, the world of marinas or waterfront properties, encompassing everything from the most sumptuous superyacht to the tiniest craft the 2022 Southampton International Boat Show has it all. Turn the page to discover the show zones, activities, boats, kit and more…
INFORMATION
n Dates: 16 – 25 September n Times: 10am – 6pm daily (except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm) n Adult tickets from: £26 n Two day ticket: £44 n Local Residents (SO14 - SO19 Post Codes): £17 n Concessions/senior citizens: £17 n Children aged 15 and under are free. A maximum of two children can be admitted free with each adult ticket holder. Each additional child: £16 www.southamptonboatshow.com