Strong sales celebrated at Southampton show
BOASTING more exhibitors than ever, the 53rd Southampton International Boat Show was described by organisers British Marine as a great success.
A total of 685 individual stands and more than 650 craft were on display, with about 300 boats berthed in the marina alone.
The show also welcomed 126 new companies and hosted 167 UK and world debuts.
“The feedback we’ve received from exhibitors from across the industry has been exceptional, with many indicating very strong sales,” British Marine CEO Lesley Robinson commented afterwards.
“The show has put a real smile on everyone’s face with a fantastic mix of products, talks, entertainment and refreshments.
“We’ve welcomed everyone from boating newbies to seasoned sailors and watersports enthusiasts and the wide choice of sailing yachts, motorboats, accessories, paddle boards, kayaks and services has been incredibly well received.”
Despite three days of national mourning and the closure of the show for one day as a mark of respect following the death of Her Majesty the Queen, the show welcomed more than 83,000 people over nine days.
Alongside craft of all shapes and sizes, from paddleboards and kayaks to towering superyachts, plus a whole host of products and services from engines and life rafts to clothing and rigging, the show placed an emphasis on giving people the opportunity to get out on the water and give it a try.
Lesley added: “Through our Get Afloat, Try-A-Boat and Try-A-Boat+ experiences we’ve hosted more than 14,000 visitors on the water, trying everything from dinghy sailing, paddleboarding and kayaking to RIB rides, yacht cruising and motorboating.
“With the feedback we receive from visitors and exhibitors our thoughts now turn to planning for next year and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2023,” she concluded.
The show will take place from September 15-24, 2023.