The PSP Southampton Boat Show in Mayflower Park runs from 14 – 23 September this year. Experience Britain’s original on-water boat show, featuring one of Europe’s largest purpose-built marinas with over 2km of pontoons. There will be up to 1000 boats on display over 10 days as well as global launches of numerous boats and products as well as endless attractions for experts and beginners alike.

Here’s a taster as to what you can expect…..

Throughout the Show, visitors can view boats ranging from £300 dinghies to multi-million pound sailing and motor yachts.  With stunning views of the marina, great events for children and parents, as well as the ever popular Ladies Day – now in its fourth year, soaking up the atmosphere is just as important as the sensational exhibitions.

The 2011 show saw 10,000 people get out on the water and try out boating and watersports. It’s the ideal opportunity to experience something new, learn from the experts and get up close to a variety of fantastic vessels. The Show’s signature attraction, Try-A-Boat sees enthusiasts get on the water for free on a range of boats from power to sail.

For the younger visitor Get Afloat, brought by Rockley Watersports, lets 8 to 16 year olds get on the water with qualified instructors, in a 90 minute session in the heart of the Show.  Plus, Suzuki’s RIB experience offers visitors the chance to feel the way of life at speed on the water with free RIB rides.

Back by popular demand, the Sea Theatre Live featuring the Sea Kitchen Theatre and Boat Clinics will all return this year. Pick up hints and tips from chefs and demonstrations in the Sea Kitchen Theatre, boasting a schedule of gastronomic treats. The Boat Clinics are back for you to meet with, learn from and talk to the experts who will be bestowing their knowledge in the daily sessions.
 
As well as the familiar favourites, new features to discover include:

The Alexandra Shakleton, a replica boat about to take to the waters of the Southern Ocean for the adventurers on the ‘The Shakleton Epic’. This will replicate the gruelling 800 mile Southern Ocean voyage that took place in 1916, when the James Caird was used by Sir Ernest Shakleton in one of history’s greatest rescue missions. Come and see how sailors on The Shakleton Epic will cope with the traditional tools and equipment that was available in 1916.

The Whitbread 60 Solent Sailing Experience will let visitors experience the thrill of sailing aboard a round-the-world designed racing yacht. Test your skills and have a go at taking the helm, pulling on the runners, or using the coffee grinders to rise to the challenge of winching the massive main sail!

The PSP Southampton Boat Show National Inter Club Team Racing Championships in association with the RYA. See some of the country’s best team racers going head to head right at the heart of the Show. These top sailors will be battling to be crowned winners at the Show, so prepare for an exciting competition to unfold.

In addition to these new attractions, each day will see a commentated must-see flotilla of modern, vintage and iconic boats sail past the marina.

Tickets

Click here to find out about a range of prices and deals. You can also visit the Boat Show website or call the ticket hotline on 0871 230 7140.