Boatlife 2024: Show returns to NEC with themed days

Organisers of the Boatlife show have revealed further details of the third edition, which takes place from 15-18 February 2024 at Birmingham’s NEC.

Entering its third year, following growth in 2023, Boatlife promises an ‘unforgettable mix of boats and products under one roof’. Industry support comes from headline sponsor Suzuki as well as partners Elite Dynamics and SBS Trailers.

The 2024 event will introduce four new themed days. Innovation Day on Thursday 15 February highlights cutting-edge technology and pioneering trends, while Friday 16 February is Wellness Day, offering a focus on relaxation and wellbeing activities. Saturday 17 February brings Discovery Day, for newcomers to discover boating, and finally, Sunday 18 February champions Sustainability Day, with a spotlight on eco-friendly practices and responsible boating.

A line-up of over 100 powerboat and RIB models, catering to a wide range of budgets and lifestyles, will include brands from companies such as Idealboat, Boatpoint, TBS Boats, Offshore Power Boats, with several UK debuts and launches.

Following a successful launch last year, the dedicated boat angling zone will be back for 2024. This sector showcases vessels designed for fishing such as Tracker Boats, Smartliner & IBF, alongside products and equipment for the angling sector, including On Top Angling, Penn and Cox & Rawle.

There will also be a line-up of angling ambassadors at the show, with meet and greet and stage talks planned. These include John Locker – The Fish Locker; Squidward 3 – Fishing Adventures; Mark Fairhurst – Manic Fishing; Adam Jones – London Perchfinder; Jamie – Shaky Angler; and Will Parkinson – Smartfish.

The inland waterways zone hosts brands including Adam Lind from Floating Home and David Johns from Cruising the Cut, Tingdene, ABC Leisure Group and Midland Chandlers.

Watersports enthusiasts can visit the activity pool zone, sponsored by GJW Direct, which will offer kayak and paddleboard demonstrations by Rockley Watersports professionals. The visitor have-a-go sessions return, with options to try new activities and promote the fun of watersports.

Supporting these areas will be equipment suppliers, manufacturers and green tech businesses, including the likes of Torqeedo, Beta Marine and Seadek will rub shoulders with Ship Shape Bedding, Navico Group and Sleipner on the NEC Floor.

“We are delighted with the interest for the third Boatlife show, which has certainly been embraced by the UK boating community,” says Richard Dove, director at Boatlife Events. “Last year proved a highly popular event, with exhibiting brands remarking on the great atmosphere, promotional opportunities and quality customer interactions. As the show is bigger and better than before, we’d encourage any marine brand to quickly reserve their space and take advantage of the fantastic potential our marketing programme offers.”

As well as the focus on boats, a list of familiar faces and marine professionals will take to the Boatlife Stage. The ‘inland pub’ again provides a meet-up spot to enjoy live music with a drink. Boatlife is supporting the Fire Fighters Charity as their chosen cause for 2024.