It’s that time of year again – the annual Southampton International Boat Show, the perfect day out for any marine enthusiast. We’ve gathered up all the information you need to know before you go including must-see exhibits and stands across the week-long event.
Back for 2019! Get on the water with Try-a-Boat at this year's show. Perfect for everyone from bold beginners to sailing veterans. Book your tickets for the Show here: https://t.co/zzdwAbfz9N #SIBSBAB19 pic.twitter.com/jrApDFY6rh
— Southampton International Boat Show (@SotonBoatShow) June 22, 2019
Where to buy tickets, opening times & how to get there
In 2019, the Southampton International Boat Show runs from the 13th September to the 22nd. It’s the 51st outing for the show, with over 500 marine brands set to attend with exhibits and attractions around the purpose-built marina and surrounding area. You can purchase discounted tickets online with a range of options to choose from, including hospitality and VIP upgrades, whilst those aged 15 and under go free.
Every day, the gates to the show will open at 9.30am for access into the arena before the rest of the show opening up at 10.00am, closing at 6.30pm daily. With over one hundred thousand people expected to attend across the week, you’ll want to plan how you’re getting there carefully. For travel by car, follow the AA signs to direct you from the main motorway routes or use the postcode SO15 1ST for sat navs to direct you to the show entrance.
The West Quay Podium and multi-storey car parks just a short five minute walk from the show entrance have over 4,000 spaces between them, including family and disabled bays. Check out the website for travel advice by bus, train, ferry or air.
What’s on?
As one of the largest maritime events in Europe, there’s plenty to see and do for the whole family. Whether you’re after luxury superyachts, kayaks, racing dinghies or everything in-between, there’ll be an outstanding array of all kinds of boats and marine vessels on display as well as hundreds of stalls offering everything you could need while out on the water.
There’ll also be plenty of great food outlets and live entertainment throughout the show, including interactive, ‘have a go’ events where you’ll have the chance to try some incredible experiences like diving or free water activities including stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking – perfect for first-timers!
Where’s the GJW Direct stand?
We’ve attended a number of Southampton Boat Shows and each year is bigger and better than the one before. You’ll find the GJW Direct stand in our usual spot – E047 at the entry to the pontoons, situated next to our partners at Premier Marina.
Drop by for free refreshments and expert advice on all things marine-based – we can answer any questions you may have about insurance and provide quotes on all vessel types. As part of our ongoing work with the RNLI, they will also be joining us to run daily demos of how to service and check your lifejackets. Plus, we’ll be offering hands-on demos of our online portal, MyBoat.
What is MyBoat?
MyBoat is a free digital boat management system and accessory reminder service that can make sure you keep on top of essential safety checks to keep your equipment in proper condition. If you’re a GJW Direct customer, you’ll also gain access to exclusive discounts on top marine brands, retailers and subscriptions like Seago, Pirate’s Cave Chandlery & Yachting Monthly. If you would like to read more about how you can use you MyBoat platform, why not check out our article on the best way to store your boat documents online.
If you sign up to MyBoat during September, you’ll be entered into our free prize draw to win one of three GoPro Hero 7 action cameras, worth £379.99.
Header Image Source: GJW