Voting is open in the British Yachting Awards 2023, with Kirsten Neuschafer, Charlie Enright and Dylan Fletcher among those shortlisted.

Each winner in the annual awards, organised by Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting magazine, is decided by the public vote alone.

There are categories for best yachts, multihulls, kit, clothing and more.

The British Yachting Awards is sponsored by BoatLife, as well as by Davey & Co, which makes the trophies for the event, and Dartmouth Gin, which provides a bottle for each winner and highly commended.

Chelsea Magazines marine group editor Rob Peake said: “The British Yachting Awards celebrates the achievements of the sailing world over the past year – don’t miss this chance to vote for the person, boat, or piece of kit that you think is most deserving in each category.”

Voting closes at midnight on Sunday 5 November 2023.

VOTE HERE

In the Event of the Year category, competition is fierce between some great events including the Southampton International Boat Show, The Ocean Race and Selden SailJuice Winter Series.

Sailor the Year lines up a series of outstanding individual and group performances, including that of club sailor Ken Fowler, who sailed an RS Aero around every English and Welsh island for charity, and also the Downer family, who won Cowes Week.

The Young Sailor category, sponsored by BoatLlife, shows off eight up-and-coming talents, including 17-year-olds James Crossley and Noah Fitzgerald, who beat a top class fleet to win the Bloody Mary Pursuit Race over the winter.

The boat categories whittle down the year’s launches to the best new boats for cruising, racing and bluewater sailing.

Meanwhile the Equipment and Clothing categories are a snapshot of marine industry innovation in 2023.

There are 11 categories:

Cruising Yacht of the Year

Bluewater Cruiser of the Year

Multihull of the Year

Performance Yacht of the Year

Marina of the Year

Equipment Innovation of the Year

Clothing Innovation of the Year

Sailor of the Year

Youth Sailor of the Year, sponsored by BOATLIFE LIVE

Outstanding Achievement of the Year

There is also a Lifetime Achievement Award which we announce on the night of the ceremony – to be held at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge on 27 November.

We will also announce our Charity of the Year.

Choose your favourite in each category and vote here – British Yachting Awards

The post Voting is open in the British Yachting Awards appeared first on Sailing Today.

The November issue of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, which is on sale from 29 September, is always an exciting one, containing all the nominations for this year’s British Yachting Awards. After careful debate, we’ve draw up the category shortlists – now it’s you who decides the winners! Please peruse the nominations in the magazine and vote at britishyachtingawards.com. This issue we also have a Bavaria boat test by editor Sam Jefferson, some exciting on-board reportage from the RC44 fleet, a look at the best of Caribbean sailing and we catch up with how the America’s Cup is shaping up, a year out from the event itself next autumn.

And if you’ve been Cup watching, things are getting mighty interesting, with much on-water training and now the first preliminary regatta, in Spain, giving an idea of where individual teams are.

We jumped at the chance to go racing with the RC44 fleet, always full of top sailors and showcasing these fantastic boats which have endured beyond so many classes – still going strong.

A great story about cruising with children in the Caribbean. Not for everyone but if you get it right, a life-changer.

More glorious Caribbean sailing – as the UK winter approaches, it’s never far from most sailors’ minds!

This colourful beastie is one the latest from Sebago, featured in our monthly round-up of the latest sailing kit for you and your boat.

Author Barry Pickthall continues his honest account of cruising from the UK south coast to Scotland and back. Barry and crew are still exploring the Western Isles, lucky them, but it’s not all been straightforward.

A lovely smile from the author of a great piece about doing the 2023 Fastnet – it was a wild ride and a very calm one – never a dull moment in this great tale!

We look at what’s new in the world of mast tech – how you can upgrade with the latest kit for your boat and your kind of sailing.

This little’un is from our ‘new boats’ section. A fun looking thing!

Our ‘advice’ section is always full of useful stuff – amid the racing tips this month, in case you’re doing a Med charter, we untangle some Med anchor lines – we’ve all done it!

This is one of our ‘three of the best’ yachts on the market this month. To find out more, try the magazine!

There is tons more in our Novemmber 2023 issue, out now. Try a single issue or subscribe to the magazine here.

The post New issue of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting out now appeared first on Sailing Today.

Don’t miss your chance to hear from the star of the hit TV series!

The Southampton International Boat Show is delighted to welcome Captain Sandy, star of the hit series ‘Below Deck Mediterranean’ – available to stream on Hayu – to the Show on Thursday 21 September and Sunday 24 September as she returns to the UK for her ‘Captain Sandy Live’ tour, following her hugely successful one-night West End engagement last year.

Ahead of her ‘Captain Sandy Live’ appearances at the Lighthouse, Poole (21 September) and MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton (24 September), Captain Sandy will be visiting the show where on both days she will take part in a VIP Meet & Greet, give a short talk and interview on the Foredeck Stage (10.45am – get there early to grab a seat) and be signing copies of her book ‘Be The Calm or Be The Storm’ which will be available for purchase at the Show.

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine, the team behind the Southampton International Boat Show said: “We are delighted that Captain Sandy is able to join us at the Southampton International Boat Show this year and taking the time to join us on the Foredeck Stage as well as offer a book signing for our visitors.

“As an inspirational leader and with such passion for the marine industry, I for one look forward to listening to her talk and I am sure our visitors will be enthralled by her tales.”

Image credit: Danny Kaan 

James Quaife and Robin Rayner from New Frame Productions said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with the Southampton International Boat Show whilst bringing the tour of Captain Sandy Live to both Southampton and Poole this September. It is the perfect opportunity for Sandy to visit the largest boat show in the UK. We can’t wait to meet you all there.”

Captain Sandy is one of the most recognisable reality TV stars of the past ten years. She has taken part in six seasons of Below Deck Mediterranean and has accrued a huge fan base in the UK and throughout the world. At Captain Sandy Live she will share everything her fans want to know about life at the helm, from the stunning locations and pinpoint precision parking to the never-ending drama onboard the superyacht. Audience members will be able to cast their questions to the captain regarding her incredible career, how she beat cancer, survived a life-threatening bike crash and built an outstanding reputation as an elite class of superyacht captain.  

Captain Sandy is a leader, hero, international speaker and businesswoman, whose exceptional leadership style has helped her to break through every obstacle in her path – from the glass ceilings and near-fatal accidents on land to pirates and fires at sea!

As a renowned superyacht captain with over 30 years of international maritime experience, Captain Sandy’s integrity and courage have earned her an outstanding reputation as an elite class of captain, and recognition from the International Superyacht Society, who bestowed upon her the prestigious Distinguished Crew Award for her bravery in the midst of a catastrophic fire and pirate threat that occurred in 2006 off the coast of Yemen.

Don’t miss your chance to meet Captain Sandy at the Southampton International Boat Show, get your boat show ticket today! Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

Plus, look out for more details on your opportunity to take part in an exclusive VIP meet & greet with Captain Sandy at the show coming soon!

Upgrade your visit and check out our exclusive VIP packages – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/  

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

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Southampton International Boat Show proudly launches The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake

Brand new for 2023 – enjoy watersports experiences and the city centre’s only sandy beach

Be one of the first to experience The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake, brought to you by Haven Knox-Johnston, a dynamic new addition to this year’s show, where visitors can anticipate a blend of action and relaxation.

For the first time ever, The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake, will provide visitors with the perfect location to try their hand at a whole host of different watersports as well as chill out on the city centre’s only sandy beach. 

Situated front and centre at the show’s entrance, The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake can be found within the dedicated Watersports Zone, crammed full of all the latest entry-level watersports gear and equipment.

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

The expansive Watersports lake offers visitors fantastic opportunities to try out our extensive itinerary of watersports experiences available across the ten days.  Enjoy a gentle paddle across the lake on a paddleboard or an exhilarating canoe race against an Olympian. Try your hand at model boating or find your inner zen at sundown with a paddleboard yoga session!  

While over on the city centre’s only sandy beach, find your happy place with the sand between your toes.

With buckets and spades available for kids of all ages, have fun building a sandcastle or enjoy a picnic under the palm trees.  Make sure you’re Insta ready and grab a snap at the photo op display.  You can even take part in a beach yoga session or simply sit back and enjoy the action on the big screens which will include two mighty clashes from the Rugby World Cup (Saturday 16 September (16.45) watch Wales take on Portugal, Saturday 23 September (16.45) watch as England takes on Chile).  With food outlets, a bar and ample seating, it’s a great place to start your day planning your itinerary, for a lunchtime pit stop or to chill out at the end of an action-packed visit to the show.

Plus, look out for some exciting Beach Haven & Watersports Lake competitions – keep an eye out of details coming soon!

“Haven Knox-Johnston is proud to be collaborating with the Southampton International Boat Show to introduce The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake. With the new additions of Haven-Knox Johnston Commercial and Haven Knox-Johnston Specialist brands, it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring all the new members of our family together and introduce them to the whole marine community and celebrate what we all love most; being out on the water. We may have expanded our product range, but we are always going to still enjoy the sand beneath our feet, even in the city centre”, commented Paul Knox-Johnston of Haven Knox-Johnston. 

British Marine CEO, Lesley Robinson added: “We are always looking to enhance the experiences for our attendees at the show and we are delighted to be working with Haven Knox-Johnston on this great new attraction.

“This addition exemplifies our commitment to celebrating all things marine and providing opportunities for people to give it a go, alongside a great place to get together and relax and soak up the show atmosphere.”

All on water activities, on the Watersports Lake, are included in the price of your show ticket, visit the booking area in the Watersports Zone to book your activities.  A full schedule of what’s on when will be available on the website in the coming days – www.southamptonboatshow.com

Get your ticket

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

Upgrade your visit and check out our exclusive VIP packages – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

The post Southampton International Boat Show proudly launches The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake appeared first on Sailing Today.

Ocean Globe Race (OGR) pre-start festivities have got underway in the Race Village at MDL’s Ocean Village Marina in Southampton. And there’s something for everyone – sailor or non-sailor, old and young, celebrating all things nautical.

First up is the official opening of the Race Village by the Lord Mayor of Southampton on Tuesday 29 August at 11am, with race crews, press and public all invited to cheer on as the ribbon is cut.

As the crews make their final preparations, visitors to the Race Village will be able to share in the adventure of ocean sailing as writer and broadcaster, Paul Heiney, entertains with his tales of sailing the Atlantic single-handed on Saturday 2nd September at 1pm. His message is: “If I can do it, so can you.”

Using the same techniques as the competitors in the Ocean Globe Race will be, visitors can learn the art of navigating using just the sun, moon and stars to guide their way. Nigel Rennie from First Class Sailing will be demonstrating how to use a sextant, the navigation tool used by sailors for centuries, in a series of Celestial Navigation workshops at 2pm on 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 6th September.

As it approaches its bicentenary next year, volunteers from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) Water Safety Education Team will be in the Race Village on the 29th August, 2nd, 3rd, 9th and 10th September promoting its ‘Float to Live’ campaign conducting lifejacket checks and highlighting all the different technologies available to call for help.

Inspiring future volunteers and offering a little friendly competition, younger visitors to the Race Village can take part in the ‘Ready, Steady, Crew’ game to kit up like RNLI crew as quickly as possible, with the child who kits up the quickest being crowned the winner and receiving a fabulous prize from the RNLI shop.

As Maiden prepares to take on the Ocean Globe Race, a team from The Maiden Factor Foundation will be in the Race Village to highlight the foundation’s mission and let people know how they can get involved.

Founded by Whitbread veteran Tracy Edwards, the charity works with, fundraises for, and supports communities to enable girls into education, helping them to reach their full potential and create better futures for all.

Race Village sponsor, e-Propulsion will be showcasing a selection of its innovative electric outboards, pod drives and battery solutions. Team members will also be on hand to discuss its sustainable solutions to make boating greener.

For the next generation of sailors

The team from Southampton’s SeaCity Museum will be hosting some free and fun pirate activities. Children will have the chance to design their own treasure map and pirate hat as well as handle some fascinating artefacts, including a real cannon ball, on the 31st August, 1st, 3rd and 9th September from 1pm to 4pm.

Continuing the swash-buckling theme, Pirates and Pixies Faces & Parties will be offering nautically inspired face painting from dolphins and turtles to legendary pirates and mythical mermaids. Available on the 31st August, 1st, 3rd and 9th September for a small fee from 1pm to 4pm.

Scientists from the National Oceanography Centre, the UK’s leading ocean science and research charity, will be at the Race Village on the 31st August and 7th September to introduce visitors to the fascinating microscopic world that lives in our ocean and discuss how tiny organisms like plankton play a big role in planetary health.

There’ll be the opportunity to look through microscopes and see first-hand the breath of ocean biodiversity, as well as and find out about the interrelated nature of the marine food chain.

Charity days
With the state of our seas such an important topic on everyone’s agenda, environmental charity Blue Marine Foundation will be in the Race Village on Thursday 31st August to raise awareness of the issues affecting our oceans and deliver initiatives to help protect them for future generations.

From 1pm-1.30pm, Dr Luke Helmer will be presenting the Blue Marine Foundation’s Solent Seascape Project, which is designed to bring people together to put nature back together. The Solent is a playground for many water users, and this project is aiming to reverse the decline of nature in the area and restore it.

Tackling the decline of young people participating in boating, sailing charity Ocean Youth Trust (South) helps to provide ‘adventure under sail’ to young people who have shown exceptional accomplishments and qualities which have inspired or supported others.

A team from the charity will be in the Race Village on 2nd September. Visitors can take part in origami boat building – a fun activity that the young crew often do while out at sea – and find out more about the great work it does with young people aged 11-25.

Maritime art
Winner of the Royal Society of Marine Artists’ New Generation Award, Gregory Smith will be displaying and selling his exquisite oil paintings depicting images of sea going craft, historical and contemporary, including the Ocean Globe Race competitors captured as they arrive and berth at Ocean Village.

In his fourth year of exhibiting with the Royal Society, Gregory will also be accepting commissions, whether you’d like a Turneresque galleon for your walls or something more personal.

Daily screenings
On the Race Village’s jumbotron (massive display screen), there will be screenings of sailing films and documentaries, including footage of previous Whitbread Round the World Races and Tracy Edwards’ movie Maiden (3rd September 3pm) – the story of a 24-year-old cook on charter boats becoming the skipper of the first ever all-female crew to enter the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989.

In addition, the OGR WebTV daily crew interviews will be shown throughout, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the teams and individuals taking part in this epic, ocean-going adventure.

Take a tour
Visitors to the Race Village can take a tour of the pontoons and get up close to the international fleet of the 47-68ft yachts as they make their final preparations for the 27,000 nautical mile challenge ahead.
Tours will take place every day from 29th August between 1pm and 5pm and can be booked via Eventbrite in advance or on the day (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ocean-globe-race-2023-pontoon-access-tickets-700811284417). Visitors taking a tour will have the option to make a small charitable donation prior to the tour which will go to support the Blue Marine Foundation, Ocean Youth Trust (South) and The Maiden Factor Foundation.

Rest, refuel and relax
With music enhancing the festival atmosphere, visitors can enjoy traditional Thai street food from Mama’s Kitchen, delicious hot drinks from Crofty’s Coffee Bar, artisan pizza from Arty Stan and indulge from the Renegade Brewery’s range of exquisite beers. There will also be an on-site bar run by the team behind the Ketch Rigger and Gaff Rigger restaurants on the River Hamble.

Race start
Tickets to watch the start and say bon voyage to the 14 Ocean Globe Race crews onboard the historic steamship Shieldhall have now sold out, but you could still win a pair of tickets at the Captains’ Dinner Charity auction, taking place on 1st September.

The winning bidder will join friends and family of the crews onboard for a late breakfast at 11.00, before watching the Ocean Globe Race fleet cross the line as Sir Chay Blyth starts the race from the famous Royal Yacht Squadron.

However, no one need miss out on the excitement of the start as MDL will be live streaming to the jumbotron in the Race Village, capturing the yachts as they depart Ocean Village Marina, start to sound of the cannon and race the first few miles towards the Needles.
For more information on the Ocean Globe Race, or to register for free tickets to the Race Village visit https://www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/ogr23/
For more information on MDL and its marinas visit www.mdlmarinas.co.uk

The post Race village opens for Ocean Globe Race in Southampton appeared first on Sailing Today.

Don’t miss it, get your ticket today – Wednesday 20 September already sold out!

Add a touch of luxury to your boat show visit with an exclusive Quayside Club VIP ticket.

Already proving popular with visitors, with VIP tickets already sold out for Wednesday 20 September, if you’re planning a visit to the show, then why not make it extra special with a VIP experience.

For £156.25 per person, VIP ticket holders will enjoy access to the show itself, plus entry to the exclusive Quayside Club waterfront lounge. On arrival you will be greeted with a welcome glass of Hattingley Valley sparkling wine and enjoy complimentary drinks* throughout the day and a delicious premium buffet lunch.

Situated in a prime location overlooking the marina, the lounge offers some of the very best seats in the show, where you can sit back and relax, take a coffee break, or enjoy your favourite tipple, before venturing back into the hustle and bustle of the show. 

With even more outdoor seating than before and a more intimate lounge interior, VIP ticket holders will enjoy an exclusive oasis within the show where they can truly enjoy an added touch of luxury.

Tickets are limited so to avoid disappointment purchase your VIP ticket today by visiting https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

As a VIP ticket holder, you also have the option to take advantage of exclusive VIP parking, located just moments away from the entrance to the Quayside Club.  With just 25 parking spots available each day be sure to select this option when purchasing your tickets.  VIP parking is available to VIP ticket holders only at the additional price of £40.

When purchasing your VIP ticket, you will also have the opportunity to book your place on the impressive Thalassa Tall Ship, one of the most beautiful and fastest of the Dutch tall ships.  Step back in time on board this imposing three mast ship and enjoy a late afternoon cruise, complete with complementary glass of sparkling wine.  Fitted with all modern safety conveniences and a bar area where can enjoy a drink and nibbles, you will enjoy a warm atmosphere and a truly unforgettable experience.  The cruise costs £50 per person and sets sail at 16.00 each day for 2 hours.  

*Complimentary drinks include: all draught, all house wine and sparkling wine, all soft drinks, tea and coffee, single house spirits and mixers.

About the show

The Southampton International Boat Show is the biggest UK marine festival and one of Europe’s largest on-water events. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the show boasts some 600+ exhibitors, hundreds of boats, plus an array of attractions and exclusive show features. 

From tall ships to dinghies, paddleboards to fliteboards, kayaks to catamarans, SUPs to superyachts there’s a boat for everyone at the Southampton International Boat Show which runs over 10 days from 15-24 September, and with your Quayside Club VIP ticket you will bring a luxury to your visit, for a totally unique boat show experience.

Get your ticket

Get your VIP tickets at – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

The post Make your Southampton International Boat Show visit extra special with an exclusive Quayside Club VIP experience appeared first on Sailing Today.

1 The show for every sailor

The Southampton International Boat Show really stands out among international boat shows as being an event for all sailors. Very few other events worldwide have such a broad range of boats and focus. But that doesn’t make it a jack of all trades and master of none. Whether you are a cruising yachtsman, a serious offshore racer, a passionate club dinghy sailor, an admirer of wooden boats or a paddleboarder, the show really offers a depth of riches. The successful format of having ‘zones’ will be repeated in 2023, with dedicated areas for different interests, so it’s easy to go and see the area of your core interest, before enjoying the ambience of the wider show and wandering round at your leisure. The show’s footprint in Southampton will again stretch right into the heart of the city, with a convenient entrance near the shopping arcades and car parks. This larger area gives the organisers plenty of space to accommodate all boating interests, as well as much else besides.

2 Chandlery is back

Understandably, the pandemic years saw clothing outlets and chandlers stay away from shows. This, however, did deprive the show visitor of one of the great show pleasures – picking up a bargain. After all, if you don’t go home with a new Beneteau, you can go home with a new foulie jacket and feel very happy about your day. 

This year, the good news is that chandlery and clothing is back at Southampton. So dive into those racks and find the bargain that will see you through the next season! Force 4 Chandlery, Jimmy Green Marine and Bainbridge Marine are among those exhibiting.

3 The Watersports Zone

A special mention for the Watersports Zone, reflecting very much the way sailing is changing, with wing-foilers, foiling kite-surfers, paddleboarders and others part of the sailing scene now. Buzzing with activity and packed with stands showing the latest gear, gadgets and exciting videos, this year sees the introduction of a purpose-built watersports lake, enabling anyone to have a go – the ideal place to try before you buy.  With expert guidance from British Canoeing and Southampton Watersports Activity Centre, there’s stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, and even the chance to zen out with some relaxing SUP yoga. And for those who prefer to go under water, have a go at diving and snorkelling in the Andark Dive Tank or get your thumbs working with some model boating.

4 Dinghy Zone

RS Sailing has a range of nine different dinghies on display, from the tiniest RS Tera up to the RS21 race-ready keelboat. The RS Sailing Store also has a pop-up shop at the show, with lots of show deals, offers and helpful advice from the RS Customer Care Team. 

Hartley Boats will be displaying its range of dinghies from its training and beginners’ boats to cruising dinghies and sophisticated one-design racers. Another ideal dinghy for both youngsters and adults is the Fusion, or if you can’t decide what you want, take a look at the ‘4-in-1’ Maverick – from sailing sitting down to stand up sailing, or adaptable as a SUP or windsurfer, this is a multi-functional dinghy. 

2023 sees the launch of the new ‘Cool Grey’ Topper, made from rota-moulded UV-stabilised polyethylene. There’s a host of additional features including more internal storage spaces for food, drink and extra clothing, as well as adjustable toe straps, centralised flush mounted self-bailer and added protection for the daggerboard. The boat has a choice of three sail rigs, costing from £3,795 inc VAT.

Rooster has technical and casual watersports clothing, bags and accessories, boots, socks and gloves, there’s also a chandlery section and sale rails for those looking for a bargain. New on the stand this year will be the Aquafleece robe in a range of new colours. 

Dotted alongside the sailing dinghies, visitors can also find accessories and kit useful for sailing clubs and complimentary to dinghy sailing activities. New to the UK and also first time exhibiting at SIBS, is RotoTech’s range of tough, durable and recyclable polyethylene boats, from 3.5m-5m. These are made in Poland and were created originally for the Search & Rescue market. 

5 New yachts

At its heart, the event is still a boat show and very much a place where dreamers and serious buyers can see multiple yachts in one place. In Southampton all the major international brands will be showing their latest sailing yachts and smaller craft on the water. Exhibitors this year include Dufour, Prestige Yachts, Oyster, Jeanneau, Beneteau, Hanse, Dehler, Moody – and more. Serious boat buyers are advised to request an appointment with their preferred manufacturer(s) or dealer when booking a ticket.

6 Classic & Dayboat Zone

Our sister title Classic Boat is proud to be the sponsor for the Classic & Day Boat Zone this year. Group editor Rob Peake says: “This ‘show within a show’ is always a major attraction for visitors. Classic Boat magazine is delighted to be sponsoring the Classic and Dayboat Zone, a showcase of the year’s most handsome timber craft and a place where all lovers of classics can congregate. Our editorial team will be there over the show to chat to everyone who values the traditional skills that are still being practised so expertly by the zone’s exhibitors.”

From admiring the sleek lines of stunningly designed and built classic boats, visitors can get hands-on, watching and learning the age-old traditional boat building skills required to make these craft. A certain crowd-puller will be the staff and students from the International Boat Building Training College, who will be building a wooden boat throughout the show demonstrating all aspects from steam bending wood through to carving and routing. Meanwhile, walking around the show, visitors will find numerous newly built wooden boats and vintage craft. Among them will be the tall ship Thalassa, which you can explore and even enjoy an evening sail on.

A famous face at the show is Swallows and Amazons’ star Sophie Neville. In 1973, aged 12, Sophie played Able Seaman Titty and was the inspiration for many youngsters as she was filmed sailing and rowing the 14ft standing lugsail Amazon. The Arthur Ransome Society managed to acquire and restore both Swallow and Amazon and Sophie will be at the Southampton International Boat Show talking about her experiences as a child film star, the process of raising funds to purchase these classic craft, their restoration, and the opportunities to now sail in them.

7 Live music and more

Throughout the show there will be other new features, including stages, live music, entertainment and guest speakers, all aiming to showcase the boating lifestyle and create a buzzing show atmosphere. Sign up for the Treasure Hunt – a favourite for younger visitors, who can follow the clues and search for the hidden treasure around the show, collect stickers and goodies along the way, but they need to make sure the pirates don’t try and steal their treasure!

One of the show highlights is the ‘On the Water Stage’ show.  From back-flipping jet skiers to the breathtaking aerial acrobatics on a flyboard, this is a demonstration of high-octane thrills and incredible stunts – including the “jet ski car”, not to be missed. 

Meanwhile you can find a variety of food and drink stalls catering for different tastes. “Treat the kids to some delicious snacks or meals while taking a break from all the activities,” say the show organisers. “Check out the new Shipyard, the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, and the amazing street food vendors around the show.”

In the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, parents will find a softplay area, so while the kids enjoy themselves jumping around, the grown-ups can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. Over the weekends and on schools Tuesday, there will be face painters. 

And the show also has live music and DJ sets planned, creating a waterside festival feel. We’ll have the full music line-up on our website sailingtoday.co.uk

8 VIP visitor’s package

Visitors to this year’s Southampton International Boat Show can add a touch of luxury to their visit at the new Quayside Club. For £156.25pp, VIP ticket holders will enjoy:

l Entry ticket to the Southampton International Boat Show 2023

l Exclusive access to the Quayside Club Waterfront Lounge

l Complimentary glass of Hattingley Valley sparkling wine on arrival

l Complimentary drinks throughout the day

 l Delicious premium served buffet lunch.

9 You can get afloat yourself

Suitable for the over 8s to over 80s, the ever popular Get Afloat feature is a free opportunity to have fun out on the water under expert guidance from the friendly team of qualified instructors from Rockley Watersports. Simply sign up to book a slot for dinghy sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. All the necessary kit, wetsuits, and buoyancy aids are provided for an hour’s fun on the water. And once back ashore, the buzzing Dinghy Zone is the ideal place to see all the boats, equipment and accessories needed to continue having fun on the water.

There are loads of opportunities for you to get in, on or under the water at the show. The ‘On the Water Zone’ is an action-packed area where you can give it a go for free.

The ‘Try-a-Boat’ stand is being run, with Flexisail. Hop on board loads of different boats, from powerboats to sailing yachts under the guidance of experienced instructors. 

Or why not try your hand at single or doublehanded dinghy sailing, try out the double kayaks or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding with the whole family. All kit is provided and qualified instructors are on hand.

10 Meet Tom Cunliffe and grab your special show ticket offer

Come and say hello! We’ll be on stand J178, in Ocean Hall. 

Editor Sam Jefferson will be there, with group editor Rob Peake, publisher Simon Temlett, as well as our advertising staff and other members of the team. 

An additional highlight this year will be the presence of our writer and columnist Tom Cunliffe, who will be on our stand to talk all matters sailing and also to promote his new AngelNav app. Tom will be there over the weekend and some other days.

As one of our readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99. Use the code ‘STYY2023’ when booking via the show website southamptonboatshow.com. 

On our stand, you can take advantage of a special show subscription offer, which this year comes with a bottle of Dartmouth Gin. This award-winning gin is distilled in the town by a long-standing Dartmouth sailing family. 

See you on stand J178 in Ocean Hall.

The post 10 reasons to visit the Southampton International Boat Show appeared first on Sailing Today.

The place to be to find all the latest boats, tech, must-have gear, products, services and innovations

Whatever you’re looking for, from a brand-new boat to must have gadgets and even things you didn’t know existed, there’s always something new to see at the boat show.  It’s the ideal showcase for companies to launch their new products and gives visitors the chance to meet the experts, have time for discussions and demonstrations, and to consider, compare and choose from all sorts of new and innovative boat models, equipment, products, and services.

At the show you will find a whole host of World and UK debuts, so here is just a peak at what’s in store.

This year sees at least 60 new boats making their World or UK debut at the show, with more being announced all the time.  These include Princess’ S72, Sunseeker’s Superhawk 55 and 75 Sport Yacht, Fairline’s Squadron 58, the Dufour 41, Bavaria C46, Swan 58 and Spirit Yachts 72 Deckhouse.   There’s the first chance to see the Arcona 50, Hanse 410, the Beneteau First 36, Beneteau First 44, and Lagoon 51 catamaran.  New to the UK models including the SunFast 30 and Jeanneau Yachts 55 sailboats, Cap Camarat and Merry Fisher powerboats, and the first British showing of the powerboat DB/43 which will also be on display in the marina.  We have the world launch of the Bavaria C46 yacht and UK debut of Bavaria’s SR33 motorboat, the UK debut of the Nord Star 42+ Cruiser and the Monterey 235SS and 238SS luxury super sport powerboats.

As well as debuts of the Candela C-8 electric hydrofoiling boat, the 10m Scorpion Sting RIB, Sealine’s S390 and Zego Marin’s FATCAT 4500 Multihull.

Joker Boat RIBS have UK debuts for three of their most popular models – the Coaster 650 Plus, Clubman 22 Plus and Clubman 24. There is the UK premier of the Rodman 790 Ventura CC, and Pontoon Boats, highly popular in the USA, have their UK debut of the Regency 350 LE3 Sport.

While shoreside you will find the new 4shaw 4.7m inflatable tender from Henshaw, Ribcraft 350, Highfield Sport 800 and Medline 5.8 from Zodiac.  Rebel leisure is showing a host of new models of Rebel Raider RIBs and Rebel Superyacht Series, whilst Specialist Small Craft is hosting the UK debut of its range of RotoTech polyethylene boats from 3.5m to 5m.  There’s also a range of all-purpose and fast fishing craft on show, including Norden 600 from 3D Tender, on show from Ocean First Marine, Protagon 20 from Boatsmart, and Interboat Intender 950 Cabin from Val Wyatt Marine.  The Boat Club is showing three new models – the De Antonio Yacht D36, Invictur Yacht GT280S, and Lasai solar electric 20GL, whilst boatpoint has a new range of Ryds open console craft on display. 

Alongside the incredible line up of boat debuts, you will also find a fantastic line up of additional debuts with everything from trailers to solar panels, decking to underwater lighting.

For boaters looking at ways to be more environmentally friendly and sustainable, this year sees the launch of the TEMO 1000 electric outboard.  Designed for large dinghies and sailing boats, it weighs just 10kg with 5kg removable battery, and it will be demonstrated at the show on the ultra-lightweight aluminium Featherlight RIB from Ocean First Marine.   Mercury will also be showing the Avator 7.5e electric outboard on its stand. 

Solar Technology International’s stand demonstrates all the ways to maximise solar energy with the launch of its compact and high energy Mono High Density (MHD) solar panels and new flexi ETFE solar panels designed for boats where space is at a premium.  From Denmark, and on show in the UK for the first time from Current Electrical is the Clayton Power LPSII lithium powered battery generator.  Providing 230V and 12V power for use on yachts, it can be charged from a mains supply, solar charged or wired through the starter battery and charged by the alternator whilst the vessel is moving.  Mactra Marine is launching the Power Up hydrogen fuel cell, which produces power with zero Co2 emissions, and also new to the UK, Advance Yacht Systems are launching the Remoran Wave hydrogenerators.

Throwing light on all this new technology is the Marine Lighting Store, showing a wide range of interior, exterior, navigation, LED, and underwater lighting.  From Marine Innovations, discover a host of new products being launched at the show including the Power Dome, which shows when your shore power fails, and the Auto Engine Blower to ensure engine bay safety.

From Osmotech UK Ltd, the new Mabru 12V DC air conditioning unit will keep you cool, whilst from Scanstrut the ATMOS 12V integrated air station enables fast and easy inflation of all your towables and paddleboards.

Maintaining communication is essential and Icom is introducing a range of new products including an ultra-compact user-friendly IC-U2OSR licence-free two-way radio, and new black box VHF radios with multi-station control.  MailASail is hosting the world debut of the Skylink Rugged Global Communicator designed to provide communications in the harshest and most remote areas.  It also includes a global internet hotspot allowing any device with Wi-Fi to access basic internet anywhere on the planet. 

Learning new skills and gaining qualifications is now easier than before, with the launch of Ardent Training’s new videos with online and interactive support for the RYA Yachtmaster Online Theory. 

There are plenty of new products on show on the Barrus stand. Barton Marine are showing new carbon tiller extensions and TUPHblocks, alongside a new Rocna MKII anchor from CMP and boat cleaning products from August Race.  For maintaining your boats, take a look at the new Angelwax products from Ark Marine and for ultimate protection of all your assets lock them up safely with Squire’s new Old English 555 marine grade padlocks.

There’s plenty of clothing, footwear, and accessories too at the show. Visit the Riber stand and take a look at the new Riber Roll Backpacks, available in 12L, 30L and 55L sizes. The show also embraces lots of new companies exhibiting for the first time, including The Cornish Surfer with its range of luxury lifestyle and homewares inspired by coastal living.  The company is collaborating with Ocean Bottle to help reduce the amount of plastic in the sea – with every water bottle sold, 1000 plastic bottles are collected to avoid them entering the oceans; also, with a focus on sustainability, EVO decking is a synthetic alternative to real teak, available in a range of colours from Elite Teak. 

With increasing interest in towable boats, seek out the new coil spring independent suspension trailers from Vanclaes, which significantly improve stability and ride quality when towing.  And finally, don’t miss the first showing of the live lightning-strike map which forms part of an interactive demonstration of Sertec Marine’s CMCE Lightning Prevention Device.  Designed to protect vessels from lightning strikes, this new technology is on display for the first time at the show, with experts on the stand to explain how it works.

So, whether it’s spotting a new brand, new boat or new technology, the latest kit or must have gadget, there’s lots to seek out at the UK’s largest and most exciting onshore and on water show.

For more information about the exhibitors at the show visit https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/exhibitors/ and for more information about the boats a the show visit https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/boats/

Get your ticket!

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

The post Debuts galore at the Southampton International Boat Show appeared first on Sailing Today.

A truly unique way to watch the Rugby World Cup

If you’re a fan of rugby and boating, then we’ve got a fantastic opportunity for you to combine your two passions. Spend part of the day looking at boats and the other part watching the rugby.  What more do you want from a great day out!

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

With the 2023 Rugby World Cup getting underway on 8 September, the Southampton International Boat Show is delighted to announce it will be bringing two exciting clashes to the big screen in its brand-new Shipyard entertainment area.

On Saturday 16 September (16.45) watch Wales take on Portugal, then on Saturday 23 September (16.45) watch as England takes on Chile, enabling you to keep up with all the Rugby World Cup action without having to choose between the boat show and the match. 

We can’t promise that your favourite team will win but we can promise you an incredible atmosphere.  The new Shipyard area of the show not only offers great food and a well-stocked bar area but also a true festival vibe with live music and DJ sets taking place before the game and at halftime, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to the event and a truly unique rugby viewing experience.

Look out for live music from Sophie Edge, Calum Prior and Laura Tavernier with their acoustic pop covers, vocalist Danielle May, Saints Brass + Hannah Williams, who recently played Glastonbury, five-piece band, the Deloreons, with their wide-ranging covers and requests, they really know how to get the party started!  Plus, enjoy chilled Ibiza vibes from Dan Mar-Molinero and his live sax accompaniment to DJ sets and professional DJ, DJ Eli, who with his mix of floor filling chart killers is sure to get the show bouncing.

Not only will you have a great time watching the match but prior to the game you can get your fix for all things boating.  The show boasts some 600+ exhibitors showcasing everything from kayaks to catamarans, SUPs to superyachts.

You can also get your toes wet with a whole host on the water activities, that are all included in the price of your show ticket.  Sail a yacht, take the throttle of a motorboat, or feel the power of RIB blasting around Southampton water. Try your hand at single or double handed dinghy sailing, grab a friend and try out the double kayaks or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding with the whole family.  You can even enjoy a mini cruise!

Plus, don’t miss the On the Water Stage high-octane stunt demos, from our world class team of extreme sports professionals in this adrenaline-packed show.  You have to see it to believe it!

Then pre-match why not check out the show’s famous Guinness Bar.  Returning this year with a make-over and in a new location, it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Meet up for a pre-match pint of mild stout, alongside other cold drinks, tasty street food and sweet treats before heading over to the Shipyard for kick-off. Plus, new for 2023, just for fun, get your face or logo printed on your pint!

Also, on Saturday 23 September look skywards at approximately 3pm as a World War II icon, the Hurricane provides a stunning fly past, adding that extra wow factor before kick-off. 

Of course, you don’t have to be an avid rugby fan to enjoy this unique experience so, what are you waiting for, get your ticket today.

Get your ticket

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/  There are also special ticket offers for local residents living in the S014 and SO19 postcodes and students with tickets costing £17 for what promises to be an action packed day out.

Upgrade your visit and check out our exclusive VIP packages – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

Everything visitors need to know about the Southampton International Boat Show – including great ticket deal here.

The post Boats, Rugby, Live Music & Guinness – the perfect ingredients for a great day out appeared first on Sailing Today.

Don’t miss it, get your ticket today

With the 54th edition of the Southampton International Boat Show just around the corner (15-24 September) there is still time to get your ticket to the UK’s biggest boating festival, which this year boasts a whole host of exciting new attractions, revamped favourites and some welcome returns.

NEW – Bringing the festival vibe to the show is the Shipyard food court and music stage. With DJ sets and loads of live music, you’re sure to hear something to get your toes tapping and with a whole host of scrumptious street food stalls, it’s the perfect place to sit back, grab a drink and enjoy great food and music and reflect on a fantastic day at the show.  Look out for the full music line up coming soon.

NEW – Is it a bottle or is it a boat?  Just when you think there’s nothing more that can surprise you, head to the Bottle Boat Stage and Bar, located in Mayflower Park, adjacent to the Guinness Bar. With its acoustics sets, displays of live pirate fighting and local sea shanties, this real-life bottle boat has also sailed across the Atlantic!

NEW – Don’t miss the impressive tall ship ‘Thalassa’ where you can step aboard and explore this majestic vessel, learn about its history, and even get a taste of life at sea. ‘Thalassa’, is a 47m Dutch tall ship and one of the most beautiful and fastest sea sailers of the Dutch fleet.  Rigged according to old traditions she perfectly combines modern safety conveniences, with adventurous sailing.  Plus, as part of Try-a-Boat+, for a small additional cost, you can enjoy a 2-hour evening sail onboard this amazing craft.

NEW – Feel the roar of the engines when on Saturday 23 September, the boat show plays host to round 6 of the 2023 United Kingdom Offshore Powerboat Racing Association (UKOPRA) Offshore Championship. Watch as these powerful craft head out to compete in the final race of the 2023 season and keep an eye on the On the Water stage for the fleet parade. 

NEW – Joining the amazing ‘On the Water Stage’ line up for the first time is the incredible jet ski car, you have to see it to believe it.  Alongside back flipping jet skiers and breathtaking ariel acrobatics of the flyboard, you’ll be amazed at the high-octane thrills and incredible stunts.  Don’t miss it!

NEW – Step inside the inner workings of maritime emergency will a full safety demo from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).  Witness a man overboard recovery and listen in to a mayday call to get a real insight into the whole process.

NEW – Southampton International Boat Show is delighted to welcome British Canoeing to the show.  Drop by their stand for the low down on all things canoeing, they will also be giving a helping hand over at the watersports lake and you may even run in to an Olympian or Paralympian, so get ready for a selfie or to ask your burning questions.

NEW – This year’s show charity is the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s seagrass restoration project, which seeks to see seagrass habitats in the Solent restored to their historical levels and for seagrass to be present in all locations that could support it.  You can show your support by donating from £1 to £100, when you purchase your show tickets as part of the checkout process. There will also be opportunities to make donations at the show on the Trust’s stand and at donation points located at the bars around the show.

Alongside all these incredible new attractions, some of our show favourites are getting a bit of a revamp or relocation…

RELOCATION – A show staple is the Foredeck Stage, where leading experts share their knowledge and insight on a whole host of boating related topics. This year the stage is on the move and you’ll now find it nestled within Ocean Hall.  Take a seat and enjoy a packed programme of engaging and informative talks, interactive Q&A sessions and lively debates.  With sessions on everything from mooring tips and seagrass, to canoeing tips from Olympians and Paralympians, plus knot tying tips for kids with the show’s resident friendly pirates, there promises to be something for everyone. Visit the show website for the full speaker line up.

REVAMPED (WITH A TOUCH OF SOMETHING NEW) – With a 2023 make-over and new location, show favourite, the Guinness Bar returns bigger and better than ever, providing a traditional place for sailors to meet up and spin their yarns, accompanied by a pint of mild stout, alongside other cold drinks, tasty street food and sweet treats.  Plus, new for 2023, just for fun, get your face or logo printed on your pint! You can also catch up on some live sports on our new live screens located in the Guinness Bar area and around the show.

And that’s not all…

WELCOME RETURN – Following the hugely successful inaugural event in 2022 we are delighted to see the return of the Rose Road Association mass swim event. Working with event partners Reese Leisure, it offers a rare opportunity to swim around one of the busiest ports in the UK past tall ships and super yachts.  Swimmers will take to the water at 9am on Sunday 17 September and complete the 1km.  It promises to once again be quite a spectacle.

WELCOME RETURN – Be ready to look skywards, as we see the welcome return of the Red Arrows, Spitfire and Hurricane.  Last seen in the skies above the show in 2015, on Sunday 17 September the amazing Red Arrows will once again thrill audiences with a magnificent fly past (time tbc).  Whilst on Saturday 23 September look skywards at approximately 3pm as a World War II icon, the Hurricane provides a stunning fly past.  Then on Sunday 24 September, the Hurricane is joined by another British icon, the Spitfire, so listen for the crafts distinctive sounds as they fly past the show just after 11.30am. 

And if that’s not enough to whet your appetite we have all your show favourites, including some 600+ exhibitors showcasing everything from kayaks to catamarans, SUPs to superyachts, journey through the show zones showcasing different types of on water activities.  Check out oar-inspiring boats in the spectacular custom-built show marina with hundreds of the world’s most prestigious sailing and power boats, as well as high-end tender and chase boats. 

You can also get your toes wet with a whole host on the water activities.  Sail a yacht, take the throttle of a motorboat, or feel the power of RIB blasting around Southampton water, with Flexisail. Try your hand at single or double handed dinghy sailing, grab a friend and try out the double kayaks or have a go at stand-up paddleboarding with the whole family, with our partners Rockley Watersports.  You can even enjoy a mini cruise! What’s more these are all included in the price of your ticket! 

With a whole host of attractions on and off the water and the best of all things marine, the Southampton International Boat Show really has something for everyone, and you’re guaranteed a sea-sational day out!

What are you waiting for, get your ticket today!

 Don’t forget that as one of our valued readers you can claim a reduced ticket price for the show – one adult ticket for £19.99.

If you’re a reader of Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting, please use the code ‘STYY2023‘ when booking.

If you’re a Classic Boat reader, please use the code ‘CLASSIC2023′ when booking.

You can book these and all tickets on the show’s ticket website. 

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

The post Southampton International Boat Show: get ready for exciting new attractions, revamped show favourites and some welcome returns! appeared first on Sailing Today.