Southampton International Boat Show 2024 Family Events

Back for its 55th edition, Southampton International Boat Show, Britain’s largest marine festival, is returning to Mayflower Park.

From stand-up paddleboards to superyachts and everything in between, the show promises fun for the whole family across a huge range of areas.

The amazing Watersports Zone will host a massive range of fun water sports activities, from kayaking all the way through to diving, with experts on hand to help you to find the right sport for you. This is the place to get the best of the best in water sports, and a chance to try out some of the best new gadgets and equipment on the market.

Situated within the Watersports Zone, the Watersports Lake is back and bigger than ever before, with 30% more paddleboarding and kayaking activities than last year to help take your love of watersports to new heights. The experts from Rockley Watersports will be on hand to help you find your sea legs and give you the chance to experience your very own on water escape, completely free of charge.

This year’s show marina promises an extraordinary line-up of vessels ranging from sleek yachts, adrenaline-filled speedboats, and beautiful sailboats. With renowned exhibitors like Sunseeker, Princess, Beneteau, Acrona, Hanse and many more, attendees can expect nothing less than excellence in design, innovation and boating craft. The show offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the world of boating and its offerings.

Also at this year’s show, brought to life by Classic Boat magazine, The Classic & Day Boat Zone allows you to roll back the years and embark on a journey through your favourite boats and marine vessels. This is the perfect spot to explore your favourites, whether that’s restored classics or the latest modern yachts, there’s something to captivate both enthusiasts and those new to the boating world. The Classic & Day Boat Zone will immerse you in a world where past meets present, with opportunity to learn and hear from the experts, even trying your own hand at the helm of a vessel, knot tying and boatbuilding skills.
 
After an incredible debut year, the fun-filled Shipyard, delivered by GAC Pindar, is set to return bringing the festival vibe to the show, hosting headline music sets from: 
 
Chris Moyles (Opening party 14th September)
Ibiza Symphony (Closing party 21st September)
Plus many more to be announced 
 
At the Shipyard, you will also find your favourite street food stalls and culinary delights, and this year it will be staying open until late until 9pm on both Saturdays of the show.

Plus, for the sports enthusiasts, the huge screens positioned in the Shipyard will ensure you don’t miss a second of your favourite sporting action from football, cricket and F1. The Americas Cup will also be shown live, with special guests joining from Barcelona.

Meanwhile, over in the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, Michelin star chef Jordan Bailey will be crafting his famous burgers for visitors to enjoy. It’s also a great spot to watch the dare devil On the Water stunt show.

Key features at this year’s show include:   
  
'On the Water Zone’ –take the tiller and give dinghy sailing a go with ‘Get Afloat’ or take the helm onboard sailing a yacht, the throttle of a motorboat or feel the power of RIB blasting around Southampton water with ‘Try-a-boat’.

Quayside Club VIP experience – indulge in luxury with the Quayside Club VIP experience, where guests will experience the finest that the show has to offer. Nestled in a brand-new prime waterside location within Mayflower Park, treat yourself to a gourmet feast or re-charge with a coffee break at the Quayside Club VIP experience.  This year’s show will be hosting award winning chef, Jonas Lodge, who has curated an exclusive, mouth-watering menu for attendees.

Dinghy Zone – the ultimate destination to a mix of sailing dinghies, trailer boats cruisers, equipment, boat builders, sailing clubs, holiday providers and training options all in one place   
 
‘Watersports Zone’ – From stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, wakeboards, and water-skis to group activities on the water. With expert guidance on all areas, whether you are just dipping your toe in or a fanatic, there is something for everyone. You can even give it a go for free on the Watersports Lake.

Mayflower Park - home to incredible show experiences at the heart of the show. Ocean Hall, the Guinness Bar, the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant featuring a Michelin star crafted burger. You’ll find it all in the park. 

Show Marina – As Europe’s largest, temporary, purpose-build show marina you’ll find more than 350 boats of all types, shapes and sizes from all over the world on display. From massive superyachts to blue water cruisers, adventure and explorer powerboats, seaworthy fishing boats, tenders and toys; the options are endless. Plus, this year the new zones on the marina will make it even easier for visitors to find their dream boat. 

Foredeck Stage – home to leading experts on a whole host of topics. You’ll be able to ask the experts any question and be free to socialise with likeminded people. Look out for new speakers and talks, as well as show favourites, designed to inspire, inform, and entertain throughout the show. 

Exhibitors – become captivated by the hundreds of exhibitors who will be showcasing the very best of the marine industry. Dive into the world of cutting-edge technology and innovation, to explore the latest gadgets and marine equipment. 

Hotels near Mayflower Park

Staying overnight in Southampton?

Wondering where to stay that's close to Mayflower Park? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near the Southampton International Boat Show 2024 event in Southampton.

View all hotels near Mayflower Park

More details