Words and pictures by Mike Daish.
The RNLI has been named Southampton International Boat Show’s Charity of the Year for 2026, bringing safety advice and fundraising activities to the event, when the event returns to the city later this month.
The Southampton International Boat Show returns to Mayflower Park this year from 18th to 27th September, building on the momentum of its 56th edition in 2025.
As the UK’s flagship boating and watersports festival — and one of Europe’s largest on‑water events — the show continues to grow, far removed from its modest 1969 debut with just 50 exhibitors. Last year’s event featured more than 500 watercraft and 700 brands, and 2026 keeps that scale firmly in place.
For anyone keen to get on the water, the show’s hands‑on activity programme remains a highlight. Visitors can dive into everything from scuba sessions to accessible powerboating, all led by expert instructors. Equipment is provided and sessions can be booked on arrival, making it one of the easiest ways for newcomers to try watersports.
Across the pontoons, yachts, motorboats, RIBs and day cruisers will once again line the waterfront, offering a rare chance for locals to step aboard the latest designs without heading to a marina. With hundreds of exhibitors spread across the park, it’s still the best place to explore new marine tech, gear and innovation in one sweep.
For more information, visit: southamptonboatshow.com
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