Running from 15-24 September, more than 106,000 visitors joined the Show to celebrate the fun, lifestyle and excitement that being out on the water has to offer. With brand new attractions for 2017, close to 15,000 people got out on the water at the Show, an increase of 50% on previous years, with many experiencing boating for the first time. Set against the stunning backdrop of hundreds of boats lined up along Europe’s largest purpose-built marina, visitors were able to hop on and off a stunning array of vessels of all sizes.
The Show welcomed a host of celebrities during the course of the 10 days including Show opener, Millie Mackintosh, Kym Marsh, Samia Longchambon, Amber Davies, Colin Jackson CBE, Suzi Perry, Ben Haenow, Mike Golding OBE, Hannah Mills MBE, Helena Lucas MBE and Alex Thompson. Celebrity pirate, Gemma Hunt from CBeebies show, Swashbuckle, led the thrilling programme of live entertainment, providing families with song and dance shows on the music stages.
Visitors were treated to a jam-packed schedule throughout the Show offering something for everyone from families, kids and beginners through to the more expert boater, enticing new audiences to the Show and to the world of boating.
Rockley MD, Pip Woods commented on the Show:
It was a really great show for us, we really loved seeing new faces and getting new people out on the water each day. I think the reason the Yachtmarket.com Southampton Boat Show is so good is because there is something for everyone, whether new to the sport or not, it's a fab day out for the whole family, it's aspirational. There is always such a great feeling around the show and I think that's because it has so much to do for everyone. It's already a firm date in Rockley's diary for next year.
Murray Ellis, Chief Officer of Boat Shows, British Marine comments: “This year’s Show has been a resounding success with an exuberant atmosphere across the 10 days. From our beautiful Tall Ship, Kaskelot, and the Show’s free dinghy sailing and Stand Up Paddleboarding sessions to our brand new Paddle River experience, the attractions have proved very popular with visitors. I’m delighted that the Show has offered a platform for thousands of visitors to get out on the water, many for the first time.”
Murray continues: “There has also been some incredible business done over the course of the Show with one of our larger exhibitors recording the best sales day at any Show they’ve exhibited at globally. As exhibitors enjoy future business that comes out of this year, the industry looks towards next year’s Show, celebrating its 50th anniversary from 14 to 23 September 2018."
With global and domestic brands from the likes of Princess Yachts, Sunseeker International, Beneteau, Prestige, Sunsail, Tingdene and Compact Watercraft already signed up, next year’s London Boat Show will bring a world of inspiration, on water experiences and exclusive deals. Running from Wednesday 10 January until Sunday 14 January, the Show will welcome two new additions in the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and Bespoke London. The event will be packed with global, national and boutique brands, first looks, an array of retailers and a unique opportunity to get on the water indoors.