Scheduled to take place of the cancelled Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS), the meticulously planned socially distanced BOATS2020 has fallen at the last hurdle due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns.
Originally announced in early August, the SIBS replacement proposed to be a smaller and COVID compliant yachting event, incorporating all of the necessary health and safety measures set out by the British government.
Running on the pre-set dates from the SIBS event, BOATS2020 was due to run from 11-20 September, however as of 6.34pm on 10 September the event was told not to go ahead by the local council.
Working in collaboration with Southampton City Council to implement procedures adhering to Public Health England guidelines, BOATS2020 organizers British Marine are 'deeply saddened that it will now no longer be taking place'.
Although originally given the all clear, recent developments in the rise of coronavirus cases both in the UK and further afield have resulted in an abrupt change of COVID-19 concerns.
Stating they are 'truly perplexed' as to why the show couldn't open then close its doors when the government restrictions reinstated on Monday 14 September, British Marine recently unveiled a list of the exhibitors and some of the attending yachts for sale.
Public health and safety come first and naturally, as the show organizer, British Marine must comply with all guidance.
CEO
British Marine
Among the list of scheduled appearances, some of the attending yachts were due to make their UK debut, including the Fairline F//LINE 33. Sunseeker were also to display the largest yacht at the show, their iconic Manhattan 68.
If you were planning on visiting BOATS2020, you can still familiarise yourself with all the yachts currently on the market by viewing all new and used yachts for sale.
