As the fall out from the cancellation of the Southampton Boat Show continues, organiser British Marine is seeking answers from Southampton Council and the UK Secretary of State over the cancellation of last week's 'Boats2020' exhibition. On Friday, 11 September British Marine released this statement:

Following the cancellation of BOATS2020 presented by Southampton International Boat Show Ltd on the eve of the event, British Marine is seeking further clarification from Southampton City Council with regard to the reasons for the late notice of the decision.

British Marine had been assured by Southampton City Council that BOATS2020 was in complete compliance with current UK Government guidelines as well as the new rules set to come into effect on Monday 14 September. However, despite this, it is understood that Southampton City Council’s last-minute decision to cancel the event was made after taking advice from their Director of Public Health and was due to the perceived risk of an increase in COVID-19 cases.

As a consequence, British Marine is appealing to the Secretary of State for Public Health and the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport about the decision and the Direction under Regulation 5(1) of the Health Protection Regulations 2020 that was served to the event, with a view to understand the options available to recompense British Marine exhibitors and stakeholders.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said; “British Marine has done everything in its power to stage BOATS2020 and we followed all Southampton City Council’s stringent requirements. We are appealing the decision to seek further insight into the cancellation. I am disappointed and surprised on behalf of our exhibitors and show stakeholders, especially receiving the news so close to the opening. This not-for-profit boat show was all about supporting the leisure marine industry and the city of Southampton.”

The show, due to take place from 11-20 September 2020, was set to open on Friday following extensive work in collaboration with Southampton City Council to ensure that the existing Public Health England COVID-19 secure requirements were met.

At 6.34 pm this evening, Thursday 10 September, on the eve of opening day, British Marine received the devastating news from Southampton City Council that the BOATS2020 show could no longer go ahead due to the rising risk of COVID-19 and growing Government fears.

The show, due to take place from 11-20 September 2020, was set to open on Friday following extensive work in collaboration with Southampton City Council to ensure that the existing Public Health England COVID-19 secure requirements were met.

Separately, the nearby MDL Ocean Village Show due to open in Southampton tomorrow has also been cancelled.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said; “We are desperately disappointed that BOATS2020 will no longer be taking place, especially receiving the news at the eleventh hour before opening. A tremendous amount of work has been put in and it was heartening to see committed exhibitors on-site today getting geared up for opening.

“British Marine has remained committed to staging this not-for-profit boat show to support the leisure marine industry and our host city of Southampton, and I am deeply saddened that it will now no longer be taking place. Alongside our exhibitors, we were ready to open a show that exceeded all safety requirements.

“We are truly perplexed as to why we are unable to run the show at least until Monday in line with the government restrictions imposed yesterday. The global pandemic and unprecedented times mean that the latest circumstances are beyond our control. Public health and safety come first and naturally, as the show organiser, British Marine, must comply with all guidance.”

British Marine will be communicating with exhibitors, ticket holders and further stakeholders, and would like to thank all of them for continuing to support the event in these uncertain times.

Meanwhile, similar developments with the Ocean Village Boat Show has led organiser MDL Marinas to announce that it’s been told by Southampton City Council that the Ocean Village Boat Show cannot proceed as planned.

The company has, from the outset, strived to develop a show that offers visitors an appointment-only, controlled and safe show - specifically designed for serious buyers. This last-minute decision is devastating.

“As we have done over many weeks, we are working with Southampton City Council’s events advisory committee to establish if we can open the show later in the week,” says Tim Mayer, sales and marketing director. “But we wanted to let you know that the show will not open tomorrow (Friday 11 Sept), and we ask our booked customers not to come to Ocean Village.

“We are naturally very disappointed for all of our exhibitors, and visitors, who have all made significant investments into the show - whether to bring wonderful power and sail boats, or to travel to the city to look at a boat.

“If we are able to open our show later this week, we will contact those who have previously booked to let them know what happens next, however, your broker may well contact you to rearrange your appointment.”

At time of writing, Why Boats’ Used Boat Show at Deacons in Bursledon on the Hamble was still scheduled to open Friday 11 September.

British Marine has confirmed an ‘alternative’ boat show in place of the Southampton International Boat Show, this year’s edition of which was called off over coronavirus rules regarding mass gatherings.

As Boating Business reports, Boats 2020 will take place at Mayflower Park in Southampton from 11-20 September, comprising an outdoor boat show and on-the-water events.

“This not-for-profit event will offer boat buyers and the leisure marine industry a chance to come together with the reassurance that the event is within [UK] Government guidelines,” said British Marine chief executive Lesley Robinson.

“Visitors will see a super range of sailing and power boats and the event format with bookable time slots on each stand will create a day of quality viewing for visitors.”

Boats 2020 will go head-to-head with The Ocean Village Boat Show at MLD Marinas Southampton on the same dates. Boating Business has more on the story HERE.

This year’s Southampton International Boat Show has been postponed to 2021 as the effects of the coronavirus pandemic continue to reverberate throughout the boating industry.

As International Boat Industry reports, the 52nd edition of the industry fixture — which had been scheduled for this September — has been pushed back a year, as current UK government guidelines suggest such large-scale events will not be permitted.

However, with Whitehall set to reveal a timetable for the holding of mass gatherings, British Marine hopes to hold an alternative, smaller-scale, outdoor event in lieu of this year’s Southampton boat show.

International Boat Industry has more on the story HERE.

Among the firsts BJ Marine have brought to the Southampton International Boat Show this week is the new Flyer 10.

The flagship of Beneteau’s dayboat range is really a powerboat under the skin, blending style and comfort — across four large living spaces — with thrills courtesy of its large outboard motor.

A distinctive feature of the the Flyer 10 is its ‘smart walkaround’ concept that combines the easy movement and safety advantages of the walkaround, but with just one asymmetric walkway to port, offering greater deck and cabin space.

The foredeck also features a vast three-place sun pad, and there is a fully fitted galley which means real meals while enjoying life on the open water.

Available to order now, the Flyer 10 is expected to be in high demand with limited build slots available during the September boat shows, both last week in Cannes and now in Southampton.

Don’t miss the Beneteau Village at the Southampton International Boat Show, open till this Sunday 22 September

Also at the Beneteau Village SBS is the new Antares 9, which sets the stage for an exciting future of outboard sports cruisers.

The largest and sportiest to date from Beneteau’s Antares range, the 9 is the perfect boat for the couple or family who want a life onboard, says BJ Marine’s David Hoctor.

It’s also an incredibly popular option, sold out since launch in early 2018, but next available orders are coming on January 2020.

Contact BJ Marine for more, and to secure your access to the best deals on new Beneteau models, which include the UK debuts of the Oceanis 30.1 and Monte Carlo 52 cruiser.

With a wide range of boats to see in person — along with Conor Fogarty’s new foiling Figaro 3, Raw, on display — Ireland’s Beneteau distributors are part of what they describe as a “spectacular” at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show, which continues to this Sunday 22 September.

James Kirwan  +353 877712223
Mike Caplan  +44 7979 578238
David Hoctor  +353 85 8873445
John Harkness  +44 7564 366639
George Hill  +44 7815 561554

Following its official launch in recent days at the Cannes Yachting Festival, Beneteau’s new Monte Carlo 52 makes its UK debut at the Southampton International Boat Show this week.

And Irish Beneteau distributors BJ Marine are on hand to show prospective buyers around the elegant, luxurious and contemporary yet spacious and bright design that ushers in Beneteau’s new ‘Smart Luxury’ generation of high-end cruisers.

The 16m Monte Carlo 52 boats a world-class design from Carlo Nuvolari and Dan Lenard (exterior line) and Andréani Design (interior accomodation), with a V-hull designed in partnership with MICAD.

BJ Marine general manager James Kirwan got his first look at the Monte Carlo 52 this past summer, and even beforehand was convinced that “its combination of style and stability makes it ideal for Irish boaters at home or further afield”.

The dealers are part of what they describe as a Beneteau “spectacular” at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show, which continues through to this Sunday 22 September.

Contact BJ Marine now to secure your access to the best deals on new Beneteau models, which include the Antares 9 and the UK debuts of the Flyer 10 and the Oceanis 30.1.

James Kirwan  +353 877712223
Mike Caplan  +44 7979 578238
David Hoctor  +353 85 8873445
John Harkness  +44 7564 366639
George Hill  +44 7815 561554

Irish Beneteau dealers BJ Marine are welcoming their second day at the Southampton International Boat Show having already entertained many serious buyers interested in their latest models — particularly the Oceanis 46.1 and the brand new Oceanis 30.1.

Easy to sail but lively to helm, the Oceanis 30.1 makes a virtue of its small stature — small enough to trail, it opens up a wealth of possibilities for lake and river sailing along with coastal cruises and adventures on the high seas.

It also comes with unbeatable living space for its size, with a near two-metre headspace across its two double cabins, saloon, shower room and galley.

The Oceanis 30.1 is exclusive to BJ Marine and boat show boat is the only available for immediate delivery after the show.

The Oceanis 46.1, meanwhile, boasts all the features one comes to expect of a large cruising yacht — with a rare balance between elegance, usable space and performance.

The stepped hull, retained from the Oceans 51.1, opens up an incredible amount of space inside — with room for eight guests and significant natural light right to the centre of the boat — while maintaining impressive seakeeping performance.

And clever customisable fittings make her easy to sail and comfortable to live in, appealing to a wide range of crews.

BJ Marine are proud to be part of what they describe as a Beneteau “spectacular” at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show, with their team on board throughout the show until next Sunday 22 September.

Contact BJ Marine now to secure your access to the best deals on new Beneteau models, which include the Antares 9 and the UK debuts of the Flyer 10 and ‘smart luxury’ Monte Carlo 52.

James Kirwan  +353 877712223
Mike Caplan  +44 7979 578238
David Hoctor  +353 85 8873445
John Harkness  +44 7564 366639
George Hill  +44 7815 561554

As reported earlier, the Southampton International Boat Show opens today with key Irish marine firms in attendance over the next week and more.

Joining them will be X-Yachts GB & IRL, who have a significant presence as highlighted here last month.

The latest in the Pure X range, the all new X4⁰, is on display along with the UK premiere of the X4⁶ and the popular X4³.

Find X-Yachts at stand M452 during the Southampton International Boat Show, powered by Borrow a Boat, which takes place at Mayflower Park from today, Friday 13 September, to Sunday 22 September.

Click HERE for details of how to how to reserve a personal tour of an X-Yacht during the show.

British rowing champion, double Olympic gold medallist and new star of Strictly Come Dancing, James Cracknell OBE, will co-headline Britain’s biggest festival of boating this year when it opens this morning at the Southampton International Boat Show.

A number of key Irish marine firms are attending the show and among them are leading yacht brokers MGM Boats of Dun Laoghaire with their extensive brokerage stand as well as having a presence on the Jeanneau stands. Also in Southampton are X Yachts Great Britain and Ireland and the Greystones Headquartered BJ Marine on the Beneteau stands.

Cracknell will be joined by TV personality and fitness entrepreneur, Lucy Mecklenburgh, for the Official Show Opening this Friday (13 September) at 11am. Together they will help kick off 10 days of incredible fun at one of the world’s premier nautical events.

Celebrating the lifestyle, fun and excitement that being on the water has to offer, this year’s event is set to welcome a line-up of thrilling entertainment alongside family-friendly attractions. Europe’s largest purpose-built marina will feature hundreds of stunning boats for visitors to hop on and off, completing the experience.

James Cracknell comments: “I’m delighted to be opening the 51st Southampton International Boat Show, powered by Borrow A Boat. I’ve spent most of my life on the water, both competitively and for fun. From kayaking on the river and making rafts with mates to holiday inflatables and surfboards in the sea, the water is an amazing place to be.

“The Boat Show aims to get thousands of people out on the water during the 10 days of the event. There are loads of brilliant activities which are completely free of charge, offering really easy access for anyone to enjoy the open water.”

Lesley Robinson, British Marine CEO, adds: “We’re delighted to welcome James Cracknell OBE and Lucy Mecklenburgh to the Show this year. Attracting thousands of watersports enthusiasts, whether beginners or seasoned professionals, this year’s Show offers a fantastic day out for friends and family. There are a host of new features on offer for 2019, setting this global-leading event on course for another fantastic year.”

Also joining the line-up of famous faces is professional surfer and Love Island 2019 star, Lucie Donlan, who will be taking to the water this Saturday (14 September) to revel in the fantastic on-water experiences on offer at the Show.

There will also be a host of sailing personalities appearing across the 10 days sharing their personal experiences of life on the water. This includes Dee Caffari MBE, Helena Lucas MBE, Pip Hare, Conrad Humphreys, Mike Golding and Conrad Manning, as well as global social media influencers, Sailing Uma and SV Delos.

While on the Show’s new Foredeck Stage, an array of legendary boating experts will be joining visitors to share skilful insights and savvy top tips. This includes Tom Cunliffe, Stokey Woodall, Sam Llewellyn, Rod Heikell and Max Liberson, plus many more.

It’s expected that more than 15,000 people will take to the water across the full 10 days of the Show, with numerous free activities to enjoy, including paddleboarding, dinghy sailing and mini cruises. Additional features include live music and interactive attractions.

The Show will run from Friday 13 September to Sunday 22 September 2019. Tickets are available to purchase from the Show website: southamptonboatshow.com

MGM Boats have a busy September ahead with full sales teams attending the Cannes and Southampton boat shows.

The Dun Laoghaire international yacht brokers will be at the Southampton International Boat Show from next Friday 13 to Sunday 22 September, exhibiting on the Prestige Yachts and Jeanneau’s sail and powerboat stands for the full 10 days.

Interested buyers are invited to book a viewing appointment before you travel — a list of boats on display is available HERE.

MGM Boats will also have their brokerage stand in the usual spot (E096) where they will be exhibiting their full range of brokerage listings.

If you have a boat to sell, get in touch with [email protected] so MGM Boats can prepare the specification for display.

Ahead of Southampton, MGM Boats will attend the Cannes Yachting Festival from next Tuesday 10 to Sunday 15 September for the first show of the yachting season.

The brokers are exhibiting on the Prestige Yachts stand, with Jeanneau’s sail and powerboats, and on the Lagoon Catamarans stand. The full range for viewing can be found HERE.

Gerry Salmon, Ross O’Leary and Joss Walsh will be available to show you over a host of new models for 2020.

Cannes is a very busy event so many making an advance appointment is highly recommended for your choice of boat.

To make a viewing appointment or for further information on the boats displayed, contact [email protected]