TheYachtMarket.com, the new sponsors of the Southampton Boat Show, are certainly planning, in partnership with British Marine, a variety of entertainment for this year’s show which will be open to the public from 15th September to 24th September.
Visitors to the show will find that after purchasing their entry ticket many of the attractions have free access and for anyone under 15 with an adult, entry to the show is free too.
There will be the chance to step on board and explore the 3-masted barque Kaskelot. With its knowledgeable crew and state-of-art restoration it will offer a treasure trove of stories and adventure for all visitors.
One of the largest remaining wooden ships in commission, measuring 46.6m, Kaskelot was built in Denmark in 1948 by the renowned J Ring Andersen Shipyard. In 1981 she was completely re-rigged and set sail for a new career as a sail training vessel, as well as becoming the occasional movie star. Her appearances include the Return to Treasure Island (1986), The Three Musketeers (1993), Amazing Grace (2006) Alice in Wonderland (2010) and Poldark (2016).
Everyone will have the chance, free of charge, to experience a cruise on Southampton Water on a mini cruise ship. Ocean Scene will take visitors for a mini cruise around TheYachtMarket.com Southampton Boat Show. You will be able to see the show from an entirely different angle and when there is a cruise ship in port there will be the opportunity to see it up close.
Ocean Scene will be at the show making 2 sailings every hour on the following days:
• Saturday 16th September – 12:00-16:00
• Sunday 17th September – 12:00-16:00
• Tuesday 19th September – 13:00-16:00
• Wednesday 20th September – 13:00-16:00
• Thursday 21th September – 13:00-16:00
• Friday 22nd September – 12:00-16:00
• Sunday 24th September – 12:00-16:00
Each sailing will last for approx. 20 minutes.
Children can go out on the water for free and learn a new skill or sharpen up their existing skills. ‘Get Afloat’ will be run by Rockley who provide professional and qualified instructors.
New for 2017, the Paddle River Experience will be found in Solent Park. Paddle your way round the course and see how quickly you can complete the course or take your time and enjoy the scenery. Sign up for free at Solent Park.
Entertainment is central to the Boat Show and 2 stages will host some tribute acts, music from around the world and guest appearances from some sailing celebrities.
For some, one of the main reasons for visiting the show is to see the latest designs from the dozens of exhibitors. These include Island companies Seaward and BVD (MB Boats). Seaward will be undertaking the global launch of the Seaward 39, an all- eather motor cruiser (on their marina berths M127/M129), whilst BVD (stand AO48) will have some of their ever- popular boats on display.
Other Island businesses at the show include Shipmates of Cowes, Cowes based World Cruising Club and East Cowes Marina.
As well as stands across the park there is one of Europe’s largest purpose-built marinas with over 2km of pontoons, displaying more than 300 boats. Here are berths with some of the world’s most prestigious exhibitors and brands, hosting global, European and UK launches of yachts, RIBs, motor and day boats. In addition, the Marina holds many exciting feature boats.
Opening the show on 15th September is Millie Mackintosh – billed as a Fashion and Lifestyle Entrepreneur but maybe better known for her appearances on Made in Chelsea. She is reported as being the heiress of the company Mackintosh, makers of Quality Street.
New overall sponsors of the Southampton Boat Show, The YachtMarket.com will be having their own stand (E040) where they will be hosting the ‘Knowledge Zone’ (free workshops) where boating industry experts will be giving daily talks and demonstrations on everything from ocean safety to buying, selling and maintaining boats.
Report and photos by Alan & Suzanne Whitewood
