54th Southampton Boat Show 2023

 

The 54th Southampton Boat Show 2023 is one of the biggest boating events in the UK calendar, held annually at Mayflower Park in Southampton and will run from 15-24 September. It will open at 1000 each day and will close at 1800, except on 24 September when it shuts an hour earlier at 1700.

There are a range of general admission tickets on offer ranging from £44 for a two day ticket and £32 for an any one day ticket to £17 for concessions which apply to NHS and emergency staff, the Armed Forces, students, the over-60s and disabled visitors. Valid ID is required.

A carer over 14 years old who is assisting a guest who has a disability can enter the show free.

Two children 15 and under can also enter the show free with each adult ticket.

Full details of the ticket options is available on the above website.

There are also VIP tickets available at a cost of £156.25 per person, which includes access to the Quayside Club Waterfront Lounge, complimentary drinks throughout the day and a buffet lunch. VIP parking is available to VIP ticket holders and costs an additional £40.

The Dinghy Zone hosts sports and sailing dinghies, trailer boats, gear and accessories for all dinghy enthusiasts! 2023 sees the launch of the new “Cool Grey” Topper, made from rota-moulded UV-stabilised polyethylene, with a choice of three different rigs.

Additional features in the Cool Grey Topped include more storage spaces, adjustable toe straps, centralised flush mounted self-bailer and added protection for the dagger board.

For those wanting to have a go at dinghy sailing, the ever popular Get Afloat one-hour sessions will be running throughout the show, and are suitable for those aged 8-over 80.

There will also be a chance to learn classic boat building skills, with demonstrations of rope making, rigging and knot tying, with Sue Pennison of the International Guild of Knot Tyers.

The purpose built marina hosts 100s of boat this year, allowing you to explore the latest launches as well as some classic boats and meet boat owner associations, including the Westerly Owners’ Association, as you walk along the pontoons.

Throughout the show, staff and students from the International Boat Building Training College will be building a classic boat, demonstrating all aspects from steam bending wood through to carving and routing.

Outside in Mayflower Park, there are stalls packed with clothing, chandlery goods and accessories, the chance to see latest in engines, technology and smaller boats.