More than 9,500 visitors had the chance to get afloat and experience a range of boats at the Southampton International Boat Show, with visitors enjoying dinghy sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, RIB rides, motorboating, and diving.
The experiences afloat were organised by Rockley Watersports, Flexisail, Andark and the Ocean Scene team.
The show featured more than 500 watercraft, 700 brands, and a programme of features and experiences.
This year’s show welcomed around 91,200 visitors who viewed more than 50 world and UK premieres unveiled across the showground and marina.
Dramatic entrance
Standout debuts included those from Fairline, Sunseeker, Princess Yachts, Oyster, Spirit Yachts, Rustler, and Axopar.
Thunder Child II, one of the world’s most advanced wave-piercing powerboats, made a dramatic entrance on opening day accompanied by a Captain Jack Sparrow look-alike and remained a must-see throughout the show.
It was joined by a line-up of featured boats, including the 52ft Outerlimits Good Boy Vodka, the Clipper 70, High Speed Launch 102, and the Landing Craft F8.
This year’s show introduced new zones and stages, including the Powerboat Hub, where visitors tested simulators and discovered the latest innovations in powerboating.
Southampton International Boat Show brings the marine community together.
Lesley Robinson
Additionally, the Explore Boating Zone guided newcomers through steps to get afloat.
The Wooden Boat Stage celebrated traditional craftsmanship, while the Boating Academy provided tuition.
“Southampton International Boat Show brings the marine community together — from newcomers taking their first steps afloat to seasoned boaters exploring the latest innovations,” said Lesley Robinson, CEO of show organiser British Marine.
“With the support of our exhibitors, partners, and sponsors, we continue to deliver the UK’s leading leisure marine showcase: a marketplace and platform where exhibitors and visitors connect, creating opportunities that drive the whole industry forward.”
Exhibitors and industry leaders
Other show highlights included an on the water stunt show with flyboarding, jet skiing, wingfoiling, and hydroflight displays and live food and lifestyle demonstrations.
In addition, the show featured a tour by HRH The Princess Royal, who met with exhibitors and industry leaders, a talk from round the world sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and a parachute jump display from the Red Devils, the British Army’s parachute display team.
Celebrity guests included adventurer Aldo Kane, Olympic sailor Hannah Mills OBE, TV and radio DJ Scott Mills, and yachtsman Conrad Humphreys.
Luxury yachts
Reality TV star, Captain Jason Chambers from Below Deck Down Under, brought an insight from a career managing luxury yachts around the world.
This year’s official charity partner, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, engaged visitors with youth workshops, music, and fundraising activities.
The 57th Southampton International Boat Show will return from 18–27 September 2026.
