Experience the UK’s premier nautical celebration at the Southampton International Boat Show 2026. Held at the scenic Mayflower Park, this world-class event transforms the waterfront into Europe’s largest purpose-built marina. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a curious newcomer, the show offers an immersive look into the maritime lifestyle with over 600 global brands and hundreds of vessels on display.
Explore the Specialized Show Zones
The festival is expertly organised into dedicated zones to help you find exactly what interests you:
- The Marina: Walk the pontoons to view over 350 boats, ranging from luxury superyachts to sleek motor cruisers and racing yachts.
- Watersports Zone: Discover the latest in paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing with expert advice and equipment showcases.
- Dinghy Zone: A must-visit for those interested in small-boat sailing, trailer boats, and entry-level competitive racing.
- Classic & Day Boat Zone: Celebrate maritime heritage with beautiful wooden craft and demonstrations of traditional boat-building skills.
- The Shipyard: The social heart of the show, featuring a festival atmosphere with live music, DJ sets, and a wide array of gourmet street food.
Interactive Experiences and On-Water Action
This event is designed to get you away from the docks and out onto the Solent with several hands-on opportunities:
- Try-a-Boat: This complimentary service allows you to test out various craft, including powerboats and sailing yachts, under the guidance of professionals.
- The Watersports Lake: A safe, controlled environment where you can try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking for the first time.
- On-the-Water Stage: Witness high-octane entertainment featuring professional jet ski stunts and flyboarding displays throughout the day.
- The Boating Academy: Attend free talks and masterclasses from industry experts to sharpen your navigation and seamanship skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Where is the best place to park for the Boat Show?
- While there is no on-site parking at Mayflower Park, the West Quay Multi-storey and Podium car parks are just a five-minute walk away and offer over 4,000 spaces.
- Can I bring my dog to the event?
- Well-behaved dogs on leads are permitted in most open-air areas of the show. However, access to the Marina pontoons and indoor exhibition halls may be restricted during busy periods for safety reasons.
- Are children allowed on the boats?
- Yes, the event is very family-friendly and children are encouraged to explore. Please note that life jackets are usually required for children on the pontoons and are provided by the organisers.
- Is there a dress code for the show?
- There is no formal dress code, but comfortable, flat shoes (ideally deck shoes) are highly recommended for walking on the pontoons and boarding the vessels.
- What is included in a standard ticket?
- A standard ticket includes access to all show zones, the marina, live stages, and the “Try-a-Boat” sessions. Food, drink, and certain premium workshops may incur an additional cost.