The 56th Southampton International Boat Show — the UK’s largest marine exhibition — ended on Sunday 28 September, concluding ten days of boating displays, activities and industry engagement. The event featured more than 500 watercraft, 700 brands and a varied programme of demonstrations and presentations.
Organisers have confirmed that this year’s attendance reached over 91,200 visitors. On the marina and across the showground, more than 50 world and UK product premieres were introduced, including launches from Fairline, Sunseeker, Princess Yachts, Oyster, Spirit Yachts, Rustler and Axopar.
The bumper 2024 show drew 100,300 visitors, and hosted more than 86 world and UK premieres. In 2023, the show drew 92,000 people, despite adverse weather conditions.
Thunder Child II, described as an advanced wave-piercing powerboat, was among the featured vessels. Other notable boats on display included the 52ft Outerlimits Good Boy Vodka, the Clipper 70, High Speed Launch 102 and the Landing Craft F8, the latter carrying a pride-themed wrap to mark 25 years since the ban on gay people serving in the UK Armed Forces was lifted.
On-water opportunities were provided by Rockley Watersports, Flexisail, Andark and Ocean Scene. More than 9,500 visitors took part in dinghy sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, RIB rides, motorboating and diving. The Watersports Lake, operated by Rockley, remained busy throughout. Spectators were also drawn to the On the Water Stunt Show, which included flyboarding, jet skiing, wingfoiling and hydroflight.
The 2025 show also introduced new areas, including the Cockpit, presented by Powerboat & RIB Magazine, and the Powerboat Hub, where simulators and equipment displays were available. The Explore Boating Zone provided guidance for newcomers, while the Wooden Boat Stage highlighted traditional craftsmanship. Other areas included the Boating Academy, Chef’s Ahoy and The Shipyard, which combined food, live music and evening sessions.
Guests during the event included adventurer Aldo Kane, Olympic sailor Hannah Mills OBE, presenter Scott Mills, yachtsman Conrad Humphreys and chef Matt Dawkins. Captain Jason Chambers, known from Below Deck Down Under, contributed by officiating a marriage vow renewal at the show.
Further highlights included a visit from HRH The Princess Royal, a presentation by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and a display by the Red Devils parachute team. The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, the official charity partner, organised workshops, music and fundraising activities during the event.
Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said: “Southampton International Boat Show brings the marine community together – from newcomers taking their first steps afloat to seasoned boaters exploring the latest innovations. With the support of our exhibitors, partners and sponsors, we continue to deliver the UK’s leading leisure marine showcase: a marketplace and platform where exhibitors and visitors connect, creating opportunities that drive the whole industry forward.
“We are already shaping exciting new features for 2026, keeping the public inspired, supporting businesses and celebrating the best of our sector.”
The 57th Southampton International Boat Show is scheduled for 18–27 September 2026. Ticket sales are expected to open soon.
Exhibitors also gave feedback. David O’Rourke, managing director of Approved Boats, said: “It’s been a great show for us, bolstered by several UK Premières from our Absolute Yachts and Fairline brands against the backdrop of glorious weather — we’ve sold multiple boats to the value in excess of £7m right here at Southampton. What really stands out is how the show keeps evolving, moving with the times and finding creative ways to engage people. It’s the perfect platform for us, and this year has been one of the best yet.”
Mark Beeley, head of marine and ATV at Suzuki, said: “We’ve had a really successful show. We’ve raised around £3,000 for Wetwheels through coffee sales, sunglasses giveaways and other merchandise. We’ve also taken more than a thousand visitors out on the water for RIB rides, which has been a great experience. The stand has had fantastic footfall.
“We’ve made sales at the show, and the partners who use our engines have also had a great response. The weather has been better than expected, which has really added to the atmosphere. Overall, we’re really happy with how the show has gone, and we’re excited to keep building on this success.”
Neville Snell, managing director of Marine Hygiene, adds: “The new format for SIBS 25 has been somewhat challenging, but we’ve had our highest sales revenue to date and increased exposure by winning the Environmental Award 2025. We look forward to building on this with the RYA.”
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