3 July 2024

by British Marine

Your ultimate watersports adventure awaits at the Southampton International Boat Show

Thrill-seekers and watersports newbies, mark your calendars! From September 13-22, the Southampton International Boat Show is the place to be for an epic splash into the world of watersports. With an expanded Watersports Zone and more interactive sessions than ever before, this isn’t just a boat show—it’s a full-blown watersports extravaganza!

You’ll find everything from stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, and wakeboards, to kayaks, water-skis and wingfoilers. With expert guidance on all areas, whether you are just dipping your toe in for the first time or a watersports super fan, there is something for everyone.

Following the huge success of the Watersports Lake, brought to you by Towergate Insurance, we are delighted to confirm it is back and bigger and better than before. In partnership with Rockley Watersports, this year we are offering even more sessions to accommodate the growing interest. So, whether you're looking to improve your paddling skills or try kayaking for the first time, Rockley’s professional team will be on hand to support every stroke with the best equipment and safety measures.

“Rockley Watersports Limited is excited to announce its partnership with British Marine and the Southampton International Boat Show to present an electrifying watersports experience at this year's event. The Watersports Lake, featuring paddleboarding and kayaking promises to captivate visitors of all ages. This collaboration highlights Rockley's commitment to inspiring water exploration while aligning with British Marine's dedication to showcasing the best of the marine industry. Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the water at the Southampton International Boat Show”, commented Jack Clark, Head of Sales and Marketing, Rockley Watersports.

For those who fancy getting their hair wet, plunge into the Andark Dive Tank where diving and snorkelling adventures await. This is your chance to explore beneath the waves, whether it's your first dive or you're a seasoned pro, all under the guidance of diving experts and with top-tier equipment. What’s more, all the Watersports Lake activities and the Dive tank are included in the price of your show ticket.

The Watersports Zone is a shoppers paradise, offering a treasure trove of the latest watersports gear and gadgets, featuring top brands like TwoBare Feet, Musto, Helly Hansen, Gill, Dubarry, Crewsaver, O’Neill, O’Brien Watersports, Zhik, Seago, Spinlock, ScubaJet Sandbank Style, Manta5, Suunto to name just a few. From essentials for beginners to the latest innovations for pros, it's a one-stop-shop to compare products, talk tech, and snag show-only deals.

Diving and watersports retailer Andark will be hosting the show’s retail hub displaying everything from specialist dive equipment through to the latest snorkelling kit, perfect for a holiday. Whether above or below the water, the Andark stand is packed with kit and equipment.

Beyond the gear, the show is a hub of knowledge with watersport professionals and experts sharing tips on getting started, improving skills, and what gear to invest in. Whether you're into kayaking, wakeboarding, or wingfoiling, there's valuable advice and insights waiting you.

If you don’t know where to start then head over on the Foredeck Stage on Tuesday 17 September, when the RYA will be talking about all the ways you can get on the water, providing top tips on how to get started in watersports.  National wingfoiling champion Hugo Dobrijevic will also be taking the stage on Saturday 14 September, bringing some brilliant stories about his wingfoiling exploits! Don’t let his age fool you, this teenage medal winner is the best in the country!

Hugo will also be bringing the exhilarating sport of wingfoiling to the amazing ‘On the Water Stage Show’ for the first time as he joins our lineup of daredevils and promises to stun audiences with his aerial prowess. You have to see it to believe it! The stage will also host jaw-dropping performances from flyboarding maestro James Prestwood and jet-ski champion Jack Moule, offering a showcase of aquatic athleticism that promises to captivate and inspire spectators of all ages.

"With the growing popularity of watersports, we’ve focused on enhancing every aspect of the Watersports Zone," explained Mark Ring, Head of Events at British Marine, organisers of the Southampton International Boat Show. "From an expanded Watersports Lake to the introduction of wingfoiling at the On the Water stage, we’re elevating the experience for our guests to immerse themselves in the world of watersports like never before."

About Southampton International Boat Show

The Southampton International Boat Show is the UK's largest boating and water sports festival. Celebrating everything boating, the show offers a unique blend of family entertainment and retail opportunities.

This year we are also ramping up the festival vibe in the Shipyard, delivered by GAC Pindar, with an array of live music performances, delectable street food, and captivating entertainment. We will also be extending the revelry with new late-night opening on both Saturday 14 and Saturday 21 September until 9pm for the opening and closing parties. 

Legendary DJ Chris Moyles takes over the decks for the opening party on Saturday, September 14. Prepare for a "90s Hangover" party that will have you dancing the night away to the biggest hits of the decade. While headlining the show’s closing party on Saturday 21 September, will be the incredible Symphonic Ibiza. Prepare for a night of electric energy as Ibiza's finest dance anthems meet the thrilling harmonies of a live orchestra.

So mark the date in your calendar and get your tickets for what promises to be an unmissable show

Get your ticket

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/

Don’t forget, with every adult general admission ticket, two children under 17 go for free. Plus new for 2024, Young adults aged 18-21 also enjoy free admission, making this an accessible event for families and young enthusiasts alike.

You can also make a donation to this year’s show charity when purchasing your tickets.  This year we are delighted to be working with the Southampton Hospitals Charity and their Light the South art trail to raise funds for Southampton Children's Hospital, one of the top children's hospitals in the UK. Your donation will help transform the facilities and hospital experience for young patients, deliver vital support for families and continue life-changing research to keep your children's hospital truly world class.

Want to make your visit extra special?  Treat yourself with our Quayside Club package – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except on the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.  The Shipyard will remain open until 9pm on both Saturday 14 and Saturday 21 September.

Visit the website www.southamptonboatshow.com or follow our social channels for all the latest show updates.