Boatlife reports ‘extremely high’ rebook rate for 2023

With less than four months until SBS BoatLife opens at NEC, Birmingham, numerous new exhibitors and partners have been coming on board in rapid succession.

The show has once again joined with Marine Industry News as one of its four media partners, and we will continue to provide coverage and updates in the build-up to the show, which runs from 16-19 February 2023.

Following last year’s success, organisers BoatLife Events say the rebook rate is extremely high for 2023, with many exhibitors, including Barrus Marine and Vancleus taking more space.  

Boatworld will also be returning to the show, this time displaying a selection of the Compass Sport range, an established Greek manufacturer renowned for success in the family boating arena. Joining the line-up for the first time, RIB experts Cobra, Gala and Neptune are exhibiting their latest models.

For the inland zone, innovation comes from Cadal Craft with their Low Impact Boating Initiative (LIBI). Through affordable design and energy-saving tech to reduce power consumption and utilise natural resources, the boat builder says its focus is on an efficient and environmentally friendly future for narrow boats.

Further green tech comes in the form of electric drive systems manufactured by Lightning Craft. Its complete electric drive units for a range of craft replace an existing engine, with performance said to match, or indeed exceed, that of their diesel counterparts.

SBS BoatLife has also confirmed that it will be supporting the Wetwheels Foundation as its chosen charity.

Founded by disabled yachtsman Geoff Holt MBE, Hampshire-based Wetwheels offers the opportunity for all disabled people to access the sea in a safe and rewarding way on board fully accessible, purpose-built powerboats.

“We are overwhelmed with the interest for the next show, both in terms of new exhibitors, but also current brands increasing in size,” says Richard Dove, director at BoatLife Events. “We have a big push to get all the space sold by the end of November so exhibitors can maximise on the marketing”.