Very much regarded as a total boat show, hosting the full spectrum of equipment, advise, services and an always excellent selection of mainly owner-operated cruising yachts, the 2021 Southampton Boat Show looks to have raised the bar following an enforced hiatus.
Having tried heroically to make the show happen last year, rebranding the event as BOATS2020 and only calling things off at the 11th hour, organizers British Marine have outdone themselves for 2021, creating a new vision for the return of Britain's biggest yachting event.
Promising new attractions, an exemplary display of yachts, particularly in the sub 25m categories, and a host of experience opportunities, there's plenty in store for the 2021 event at Mayflower Park.
A new layout for 2021
Catering to the needs of COVID regulations, the overall platform of the Southampton show has been extended to accommodate for social distancing. Acquiring additional space, visitors to the event will be able to enjoy all the exhibits while maintaining the mandatory requirements.
Additional entrances have been integrated into the show layout, allowing direct access to the main city centre, and also the Westquay shopping centre.
Brand new attractions
Instead of offering just one new attraction, British Marine has provided a multitude of new attractions that are suitable for visitors of all ages. New tailored zones can be found throughout the show, improving not only the flow of the show, but also the overall experience of attending one of Europe's largest purpose-built marinas.
The biggest of the new attractions is the all-new On The Water Zone. Encompassing several smaller areas, visitors will have access to a range of exciting water-based activities. Get Afloat is set to feature paddle boarding, trying out inflatable kayaks, windsurfing and wakeboards to name a few, whereas Try A Boat offers thrilling rides on RIBs and experiences onboard some of the attending sailing boats.
The new Watersports Zone packs everything into one exciting location and offers a chance for people to have a go with a windsurfing simulator and dive tank.
CEO
British Marine
Other small boats such as dinghies, classic and day boats will also have new dedicated zones within the new layout, each with its own equally specified program to match the niche in question.
For guests who simply want to relax after an action-packed session on the water, Southampton is also scheduled to introduce the Festival Green relaxation area, providing a host of eateries and seating areas to take a break and enjoy the views of the show environment.
Complying with COVID
Abiding by the regulations set in place by the UK government, multiple guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of all visitors and crew in attendance.
Before visiting the Southampton event, all visitors are required to take a COVID Lateral Flow Test 48 hours before attending. On arrival at the gates evidence of a negative result will be required, which can be shown via the NHS App with an email or SMS text message. No print outs are needed, smartphone displays are accepted.
At the show itself, hand sanitising stations are placed throughout and extra cleaning duties have been implemented to ensure premium hygiene regulations are adhered to at all times. Exhibitors will also look a little different this year, with more windows and open areas for maximum ventilation.
Face masks are also recommended for enclosed areas at the show such as the Ocean Hall, touring the various yachts for sale and in catering area queues.
Showcasing some of the most innovative entry-level yachts and tenders, the Southampton Boat Show is an ideal show to familiarise yourself with the ins and outs of becoming a yacht Owner, as well as experiencing all the thrills that go with it.
Before attending the event, take a look at the current market offering by viewing all new and used yachts for sale.
