The PSP Southampton Boat Show, in association with ITV Meridian, drew to a close on Sunday 21st September, concluding ten days of boating fun, celebration and business. A very encouraging total of 121,389 visitors descended on Mayflower Park to enjoy the 40th Show.
The Show, which boasts one of Europe’s largest purpose-built marinas, treated visitors to a bumper year with over 600 exhibitors and more than 1,000 boats on display, ranging from 1.5m dinghies to 37m tri-deck motor yachts. To ensure an unforgettable 40th, the Show was opened with golden fanfare by the victorious sailors from Team GB, led by Ben Ainslie.
Visitors were spoiled for choice with the action-packed schedule of daily events, displays and interactive features. Visitors climbed aboard the Show’s tall ship Jeanie Johnston as well as a multitude of visiting feature boats; while others took the chance to get on the water trying RIBs, powerboats, dinghies, canoes and kayaks. The introduction of Ladies Day was a great success and the new Platinum Ticket offered a little extra for those visitors in search of luxury at the Show.
Andrew Williams, managing director of National Boat Shows continued: “Despite these being tough economic times, our buoyant ticket sales illustrate that many visitors continue to see the Show as an important date in the boating calendar – a testament to the appeal of the Show, the exhibitors and all involved. We’ve also had the benefit of good weather and a wealth of attractions to explore, which have helped draw crowds out onto the marina day after day.
The Show has also played host to a number of celebrities throughout the week. Eddie Jordan kicked off the Show buying an Elan yacht, while others spotted have included Claire Sweeney, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Timothy Spall.
The British Marine Federation (BMF) continued to work hard behind the scenes, organising numerous events and incentives to help demonstrate both the value of becoming a member, and to encourage current members to make the most of their membership.
