RICHARD DOVE, BOATLIFE
Why a boat show at the Birmingham NEC and why now?
My career and passion is events; during the pandemic, events stopped, so many people I know lost jobs, and companies struggled. When I started looking at how events could be less volatile, we created BoatLife to build a brand and community all year round, not just for the event.
Given the last 18 months and ongoing situation worldwide, you must have thought twice about going ahead?
Yes, there are challenges, it’s a rollercoaster! We have been working on this show since the summer of 2019 and talking to lots of companies, so we knew there was an interest in the show. Demand for boating and watersports is also up, so now is the right time for us to launch.
If London couldn’t sustain a boat show, and various regional attempts have failed, how will yours succeed?
I don’t think you can compare the two shows. London was a ten day show, BoatLife is a four day show and we have content and marketing working all year round to promote BoatLife and bring the boating community together. The NEC is a fantastic venue too, easier to get to than EXCEL and all the parking and hotels you need.
How many sailing exhibitors have signed up?
We are still selling space as the show is two months away, but we do have several sailing brands, including Viko Yachts, Bavaria, classic boats and more currently booking in. There will be lots to interest all sailors from equipment companies to holidays and a live stage hosted by an Olympic medallist featuring many speakers. More to announce soon.
Are your team sailors?
The BoatLife team has huge sailing and watersports experience. Dan’s life is on the water and he has sailed since he was 14 and Hayley does a lot of sea kayaking and paddleboarding in Devon. I’m very confident we understand what people want.
Is this is a show for the experienced sailor, or more for first time boat buyers?
It is for everyone with a connection to the water, over 100 boats to view for those ready to make a purchase, and boat clubs and holiday companies for newer boaters. There is an excellent mix of products all under one roof.
Are you seeking to attract international exhibitors and visitors?
We’d love to have international visitors but for our launch year we are focussing our marketing on the UK.
How big will BoatLife Live be?
The show is three halls, 20000sqm, so about three football pitches! Over 150 exhibitors, features, pubs and more.
How have virtual events a ected visitor numbers for live events?
There is no evidence to indicate that virtual events are reducing boat show attendance, many events run over the last few months have demonstrated strong attendance figures.
Will there be classic exhibits?
This is a current priority for us and we will have Katie McCabe speaking about her round Britain sail, with her Morgan Giles yacht Falanda also at the show. Watch this space for more!
What is behind your support of the Young Sailor category in the British Yachting Awards?
We all are responsible for supporting new people getting into the sport and making them feel welcome. These young sailors have worked so hard at their age, and BoatLife wants to celebrate their determination and passion. boatlifeevents.com