Walcon Marine is to continue to deliver the marina pontoons for the Southampton International Boat Show for the next 15 years.
The organisation has signed a contract with show organisers British Marine to construct one of the largest recurring temporary marinas in the world.
“We are delighted that British Marine has shown their confidence in our ability to deliver their marinas, well into the future,” said James Walters, Walcon Marine MD. “We built our first marina for what has become one of Europe’s largest on-the-water boat shows, in 1973.
“Since then, it has grown and evolved into what it is today, a facility hosting 350 power and sailing boats of all types and sizes.”
Lesley Robinson, British Marine CEO added: “Walcon are great supporters of the boat show and have been for a long time.
“Their dedication and expertise helps us create one of the most impressive temporary marinas in the world.
Mmarina construction
“It’s not just a functional space, it’s a true centrepiece of the show, offering an unmatched experience on the water and setting the Southampton International Boat Show apart as a must-visit event for boating enthusiasts.”
Work begins on the marina each year in early spring with the fabrication of the pontoons.
The layout is finalised later in the year prior to installation of around 50 piles and almost 10,000sqms of pontoons, which are brought in by sea on Walcon’s barges.
The last element of the marina construction is the installation of the three bridges that link the marina to the shore.
“It is a major planning and logistical challenge,” added James, “but the experience that we have accumulated over the years serves us well.
“Since we installed our first SIBS marina back in 1972, they have experienced all sorts of weather, including some serious storms and the waves that go with them, but they have come through thanks to our heavy duty, wave attenuating pontoons that form the outer perimeter and which also host the largest yachts, tall ships and other vessels.”
