Southampton to host two boat shows this September

British Marine has confirmed it’s got until Friday 7 August for exhibitors to commit to its Boats 2020 in order for the marina to be built and all other operational details to be fulfilled.

Boats 2020 is scheduled to take place at Mayflower Park from 11 – 20 September 2020, while Ocean Village Boat Show takes place a short walk away. Serious buyers will be spoilt for choice.

Boats 2020 will be an outdoor on the water event, billed as a not-for-profit showcase of boats and equipment. To date 78 boats from 30 brands will be located in the purpose-built marina, alongside over 40 land-based exhibitors of related marine equipment. Those wanting tickets need to register their interest.

British Marine says it has worked tirelessly with Southampton City Council, exhibitors and key event stakeholders to find a way to deliver the event.

“We are absolutely thrilled that the show is going ahead after such a difficult time for everyone,” says Colin Capewell, Princess Motor Yachts Sales MD. “While we will be doing this in a socially distanced way, the team from Princess will all be there with a very warm welcome. We are promising a really exciting line-up, and this could be the only chance visitors will get, to see these beautiful yachts in one place this year.”

“MDL is delighted that, alongside its Ocean Village Boat Show designed specifically for buyers, a version of British Marine’s Southampton Int. Boat Show has finally been given the go ahead,” says Tim Mayer, MDL’s sales and marketing director. “This will really help ensure the boating industry has a strong end to what has been one of the hardest starts to any boating season, with two shows taking place in the city.”

MDL’s Ocean Village Boat Show is primarily an on-water event, with access to up to 110 UK and global sail and power boats. As the land-owner for Ocean Village, MDL has also been working with Southampton Council event’s team through the summer to make sure that the council, the MDL team, the exhibitors and the specially invited guests can relax in the knowledge that Ocean Village’s show is being managed responsibly, with all guidance adhered to and safety measures in place.

Appointments for Ocean Village Boat Show can be booked from the 11th August via MDL’s website (where the plans are also available to view) while any additional potential exhibitors can get in touch for more information.

“Southampton is known for its packed calendar of events, but the current circumstances mean we’ve had to rethink how we can present popular features like the Boat Show safely for exhibitors and visitors,” says Councillor Satvir Kaur, Cabinet Member for Homes and Culture, Southampton City Council. “It’s important as a city we start to work towards economic recovery and support sectors such as marine in Southampton. I’m really pleased that by working closely with British Marine we’ve arrived at a solution which, while different to previous years, is Covid-secure and sure to excite people coming to experience everything our great city has to offer.”