The Southampton Boat Show

Posted on : 24/09/2011

One of Europe's well known and best boat shows happens every year at Mayflower Park in Southampton. The Skipper's Guide took some time out to take a look.  No doubt when the show first started it was just in the Park but nowadays it has expanded around the area and incorporating bridges and walkways the site covers a number of distinct areas.

Unlike other shows, this is classified as an outdoor event. Of course there are lots of tents and marquees with many well-known names from across the boating industry but one of the distinct reasons why this event remains so popular is the show marina which appears every year. It is all very well seeing that gleaming vessel in the bright lights of a show room or glossy brochure but at Southampton the boats are in the flesh and a lot are afloat and in the the environment whereby you can see what you are going to get.

An extensive number of exhibitors have set out their products and services and are very eager to impress. It is not just about boat sales, a lot of visitors attend at the show to pick up a bargain on that piece of equipment or gadget and there are many exhibitors offering all the latest bits and pieces.

From the Skipper's Guide magazine companies at the show include:

Broom Boats- click here
Premier Marinas – click here
MDL Marinas - click here
Boatshed – click here
Aquafax - click here
Brian Ward – click here

The show is also a great place for a gathering with many people hooking up with friends and there are plenty of places where you can get some food and have a drink (or two !) . The Skipper's Guide particularly enjoyed the Guiness Tent....

During our time at the show there seemed to be lots of displays, demonstrations and talks covering new boats, products, services ....

There is also lot to do and keep you entertained. Especially important if you are taking younger crew members. Attractions for visitors include :

The Marina
One of the world’s largest purpose built marinas with over 2km of pontoons, which display more than 350 boats over 10 days
Try A Boat
Your expert skipper will show you just what these boats are capable of, and give you a ride to remember!
Ladies Day
If you're looking for a day of glamour, style and a thriving atmosphere, there's no better way to enjoy it than on Ladies Day.
Sea Kitchen Theatre
Cooking on your boat can be a challenge, plus if you are at sea for days at a time keeping the menu fresh can pose problems.
Authors Live
Sometimes a good book is just the job especially a book written by your favourite boating author.
Boat Clinics
Getting the most from your boating activity is the simple aim of the Boat Clinic.
Active Nation
With an aim to get the nation off their sofas and into active hobbies, Active Nation and the “Active Zone” in the Arena area of the Show.
Boat Parade
The Boat Parade will offer visitors the opportunity to see the water around the marina come alive!
Try A Dive
Short of taking a submarine trip to the bottom of the sea, what else you can do to interact with marine life? The answer's SCUBA!
Get Afloat
There is nothing better then getting out on the water and having a go - and for 8 - 16 year olds can book a FREE dinghy sailing lesson.
Feature Boats
From the historic to the wacky, via the interesting, you're bound to see something to grab your interest.
Team Racing
On Sat 17th, some of the best teams in the country will be doing battle right in the heart of the Show, commentated by Jim Saltonstall.
Oyster Festival
Expert tips and tasting of this fabulous seafood.
HMS Bulwark
The newest class of amphibious assault warships. A sight you can’t miss!

We have updated our flickr page with some photos and here is a link to the boatshow website - click here

Happy boating