17 July 2024
by British MarineSailing boats of every shape and size will be on display at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS). With over 350 vessels located on the water within Europe’s largest purpose-built show marina, and even more to see on the shore-side displays, it’s the perfect opportunity for visitors to step onboard to compare and contrast different makes and models, and to get out on the water and have a go.
In the Marina
This year, the show’s purpose-built showcase marina, is undergoing a significant layout redesign focusing on a more zonal approach. Including some of the world’s most prestigious sailing boats, the boats will be sorted by type, making it easier for visitors to navigate around the pontoons and compare their favourites.
At just over 59ft (18.09m) the largest sailing yacht at the show is Oyster’s, the Oyster 565. This award-winning sub-60-foot sailing yacht is practical and spacious ideal for exhilarating blue water sailing, or relaxed coastal cruising.
Next in line at over 50ft (15.78m), is Nautor Swan’s, Swan 48, known for its luxurious build and agile handling this is the mark 2 version of their massively successful, new generation of Swan 48’s.
A number of craft will also be making their debuts at the show including Hanse Yachts who will be presenting the UK debut of the brand-new Hanse 360, alongside the Hanse 410 and multiple award-winning Hanse 460. The epitome of luxury cruising yachts, designed for fast, easy sailing and comfortable living.
Universal Yachting will be showcasing three exceptional models from Dufour Yachts: The Dufour 37, the Dufour 41, and the highly anticipated UK debut of the new Dufour 44. Additionally, visitors will have the chance to learn about the innovative SMART electric propulsion system.
Visitors will also enjoy the UK premiere of X-Yachts magnificent Xc47! Also check out the Xc43.
Beneteau captures the essence of refined sailing with the Oceanis 34.1, 37.1 and 46.1 and the First 44, while Jeanneau Sail delights family sailors with models like the Sun Odyssey 350, a new high-performance sailing yacht ideal for cruising with the family, alongside the 380 and 410.
Another great family cruiser on display is the Elan Impression 43, being showcaed by boatpoint. Brand new to the UK this summer she has been designed with every comfort in mind and the perfect cruising yacht for friends and families.
Moody Yachts introduces the much-anticipated Moody DS48 which will make her SIBS debut alongside the multiple award-winning Moody DS41. Discover the true ‘One Level Living’ deck saloon concept and famous build quality of Moody Yachts.
Swallow Yachts will be displaying the BayCruiser 21, with its renowned water ballast system and full carbon rig. Its Swallow Yacht specific features and luxurious cabin are well worth a look.
French sailboat manufacturer RM Yachts, who are new to the show and specialise in the construction of fast cruising yachts of 30ft to 45ft in plywood and epoxy will be displaying the RM1380.
Transworld Yachts, representing renowned Swedish boat builder Hallberg-Rassy will be showcasing the Hallberg-Rassy 44 and Hallberg-Rassy 340. Hallberg-Rassy builds a range of modern, fast cruising yachts to a high standard that has been a tradition for over 80 years.
While Contest Yachts, a third generation, family-owned shipyard building performance bluewater cruisers to the very best Dutch standards will be showing the beautiful 15-metre Contest 50CS, offering beautiful lines, fabulous outfitting, and great handling and performance. All these beautiful craft are sure to delight visitors.
Also new to the show, Saffier Yachts will showcase the smallest sailing boat in this year’s marina line-up, the SE24 Lite. This compact model is perfect for enthusiasts looking to enjoy sailing in a more intimate, manageable size without sacrificing quality or performance. Saffier Yachts will also be presenting their SE27 Leisure and SE33 Life models.
Other leading brands that you will also find in the marine include Bavaria, Rustler, Arcona and Najad.
Catamaran Showcase: Spacious luxury and performance
Also in the marina the catamaran section highlights the balance between spacious comfort and thrilling performance. Lagoon Catamarans by Ancasta International Boat Sales Ltd offers the spacious Lagoon 46 and Lagoon 42, each designed for comfort and performance. Bali Catamarans presents the innovative Bali 4.4, celebrated for its open-concept layout and stability. Excess Catamarans, part of the Beneteau Group, will be displaying the Excess 14. The bigger of the two new Excess models at just under 16m, it delivers everything you would expect – a stunning cruising catamaran!
Also look out for Nautitech Catamarans, Fountaine Pajot, Neel Trimarans, Dragonfly Trimarans and the Prestige M48 Catamaran.
A nod to sailing’s heritage
The Classic & Day Boat Zone, sponsored by Classic Boat, celebrates the simplicity and beauty of sailing with a collection of vessels that embody the spirit of traditional seafaring. Drascombe Boats and Honnor Marine Classics display a selection of boats that honour the craftsmanship and nostalgic appeal of classic sailing, perfect for leisurely day trips and enthusiasts of timeless designs.
Dynamic and accessible sailing
A vibrant area dedicated to fun and accessible sailing, the Dinghy Zone features a variety of user-friendly boats ideal for beginners and family activities. Fusion Sailboats introduces their lineup, including Fusion, Fusion 2 and the Maverick, known for safety and ease of use, these groundbreaking, modern dinghies are perfect for families and sailing centres alike.
While Topper International Ltd presents an extensive line-up including the Topper, Taz and Topaz range – Topaz Uno System, Topaz Vibe, Topaz Argo, Topaz Omega, appealing to both racers and recreational sailors alike.
While over in Mayflower Park look out for RS Sailing, with their range of dinghies, keelboats and catamarans and in the Watersports Zone, check out ‘Sofa to Sailboat’s’ upcycled 1972 Leisure 17. The crew of ‘Sofa to Sailboat’ will use the upcycled ‘dinghy with a lid’ to cross the Atlantic Ocean during December 2024 in aid of four charities and to promote cleaner sustainable oceans.
In addition to all the amazing boats on display at the show, there are also opportunities to find your dream boat through brokers exhibiting at the show who provide details on a variety of pre-loved yachts.
And don’t forget, if you’re looking to try your hand at sailing, the show’s Try-a-boat attraction, in partnership with FlexiSail, gives you the chance to get out on the water, completely free of charge and to try a wide range of different boats. Or try your hand at dinghy sailing with ‘Get Afloat’. Powered by Rockley Watersports, this experience allows you to set sail on dinghy joyrides. With expert instructors from Rockley, beginners and experienced sailors alike can navigate the waves in top-tier dinghies, ensuring a safe yet thrilling adventure on the water. Book your place on arrival at the show in the booking area located in Watersports Zone or down on the marina.
The 2024 Southampton International Boat Show is not merely a showcase but a vibrant celebration of the maritime lifestyle, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the rich array of designs and innovations that define contemporary and traditional sailing.
Note: Exhibitor line up correct at time of issue and maybe subject to change.
About Southampton International Boat Show
The Southampton International Boat Show is the UK's largest boating and water sports festival, celebrating everything boating. Alongside hundreds of exhibitors and incredible boats and watercraft of all shapes and sizes, the show offers a unique blend of family entertainment, retail opportunities, and live music, making it an unmissable event in the marine calendar.
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.