Southampton International Boat Show returns to Mayflower Park and the surrounding area this September, although at a slightly later time in the month (16th-25th September).
As ever, Isle of Wight companies will be at the show, either with business stands or supporting other businesses with Island produced goods. Mermaid Gin will be the drink of choice for this year’s presentation of the Brian Black Memorial Award. This award is sponsored by Yachting Monthly and B & G which are both also very involved with yachting events on the Island.
B.V.D. will also be at the show with their Bowcombe-produced boats, marketed under the names of Micro Boats and Seaspray Boats.
Other Isle of Wight companies includes Boatfolk’s East Cowes Marina. They have 2 more Solent Marinas at Haslar and Deacons on the Hamble River. Seaward, which is based in Cowes, will feature their Seaward 29.
This year’s show will certainly be the place to be for serious boat buyers, water sports enthusiasts and the entire family with plenty of expert advice and exciting opportunities to get afloat. In the top of the range boats, Sunseeker, based in Poole will have a selection of their craft on display including the line-up of eight models ranging in size from the Manhattan 55 through to the 90 Ocean. From the 65-foot category, the brand-new Predator 65 will be a show exclusive alongside the award-winning 65 Sport Yacht.
For those wishing to enjoy a restaurant experience, there are a number of options, including the Borrow A Boat Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant and the exclusive new VIP experience, the Quayside Club, offering a menu in 5* surroundings.
Featuring a wide variety of marine brands on land and on Europe’s largest purpose-built marina, with everything from stand-up paddleboards, through yachts to superyachts, there will be something for all tastes and budgets. Everyone will have the chance to get out on the water.
Like last year, when new areas were introduced, the main entrance location links the show with Southampton’s City Centre and WestQuay Shopping Centre. with easy access from the heart of the city. For visitors from the Isle of Wight the show is a short walk from the Red Funnel terminals or catch Red Funnel’s Quay Connect Bus to West Quay. Red Funnel are also offering Red Jet tickets at reduced prices for those attending the show.
From the main entrance, you will be able to walk along under the dramatic backdrop of Southampton’s historic city walls on your way to explore the show’s zones then on to Mayflower Park and the massive marina.
Specific zones include -Watersports, Dinghy, Classic & Day Boats, On the Water and The Foredeck Stage with talks from experts and other activities. In the On the Water Zone there is Try-a-Boat in partnership with FlexiSail-either glide through the water in a high-speed RIB or float across the Solent under sail or there is a mini cruise around the show area. These activities are free and offer something for everyone but check for times when activities are taking place.
It has been agreed that the show will not open on Monday 19th September as those involved join the nation in a day of national mourning and remembrance for her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The show will continue to remain open on all other days.
