The ten day 2011 Southampton Boat Show, held annually at Mayflower Park since the late 1960s, runs from Friday September 16 to Sunday September 25 and is open daily from 10am to 6.30pm except for the final day when it closes at 6pm. With over 122,000 visitors attending last year, the popularity of this south coast boat extravaganza remains high, despite the economic downturn.
Southampton Boat Show is the Place to Be Seen
The boat show at Southampton is one of two major international events organised annually by National Boat Shows (NBS), a subsidiary of the British Marine Federation. The second event being the annual London Boat Show, originally held for many years at London’s Olympia, but now held at the ExCel exhibition and conference centre next to the Royal Victoria Dock in London’s Docklands area.
Just like Cowes Week has become the place to be seen by sailing folk on the south coast during August, the Southampton Boat Show has developed such a reputation over the years that it is now the place to be seen during September by any serious sailor – not just the Cowes Weeks yachtsmen. From little skiffs to multi-million pound bespoke Sunseeker International power boats, there’s something on display for everyone.
See the Latest Marine Technology at Southampton in September
But, the event isn’t just about inspecting or buying watercraft or watching the international unveiling of new powerboats, yachts and inflatables, it is also the place to go to have fun as it offers all manner of family friendly opportunities such as the chance to have a go at water zorbing or to simply mess about on the sea in little pedalos.
But of course, boats need tackle and equipment, crew members need kit and the Southampton Boat Show is also the place where exhibitors show off the latest in marine technology. With stands covering just about every aspect of boat equipment from maintenance items such adhesives, sealants and paints to the latest sophisticated marine safety equipment, there’s plenty to see and do off the water as well.
Southampton Boat Show Tickets
Entry to the Boat Show is not free and prices start at £16 for a day ticket (if purchased online – it is £20 at the gate on the day). For an extra £5, ride in a boat is included and for £105, there is the opportunity to treat someone to a VIP package which includes a trip on a powerboat, an exclusive lounge area, hot drinks and pastries in the morning, a buffet lunch and afternoon tea.
But, whether you just fancy taking part in all the activities available simply as a standard fee paying day tripper or you take up the chance to be a VIP visitor to Southampton Boat Show this September, you can be assured that neither option will disappoint.
Elaine Findlay - An expert cook, Findlay's passion for food is evidenced by the size of her kitchen and her library of old recipe books
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