Southampton Boat Show 2008
The PSP Southampton Boat Show is blowing out 40 candles this year, and the celebrations kick off as the Show returns to Mayflower Park in September. In association with ITV Meridian, the Show takes place from 12-21 September 2008 and includes Europe's largest purpose built on-water marina.
The Show, which is the sixth largest consumer exhibition in the UK, is perfect for day trippers and boating, sailing or watersports enthusiasts alike. Whether visitors come to consider all the latest boating gear or simply discover a new hobby, this celebratory year will see over 135,000 people enjoy an array of activities on the water, and this year, National Boat Shows (NBS) is taking the Show back to its roots, honouring the heritage and history of the past 40 years.
Andrew Williams, Managing Director of NBS, comments: "We're delighted to be celebrating our 40th Show; we've got a great new sponsor in PSP and there's a whole host of fantastic features that will really draw in the visitors. The extra space available this year means that the Show will now be bigger than ever before in its 40 year history."
Exhibitors at the Show
With over 600 exhibitors and 700 boats on display, visitors to the most exciting Show on the South Coast won't be short of things to see. Whether its power boats, sailing yachts or smaller dinghies; guests attracted to the PSP Southampton Boat Show have plenty to explore. Those visitors looking for marine accessories at the Show will also be spoilt for choice, with many exhibitors offering chandlery, deck equipment, clothing, holidays, charters and much more!
TOP SHOW FEATURES FOR 2008
The Hydropool Marina
For the 40th Show, the Hydropool Marina will be bigger and better than ever before. The impressive on-water feature will allow for nearly 400 boats for visitors to explore, as NBS once again promotes a hands-on Show through its Come On Board campaign.
The Feature Stage
The feature stage and big screen in 2008 will form the central platform for spectacular birthday celebrations, bringing the Show's glorious 40 years to life. Visitors will enjoy retro-style fashion Shows, guest appearances from personalities and short films celebrating the history of the Show and highlighting the last four decades of boating - not forgetting of course the final of the coveted Miss Southampton Boat Show competition on the final Saturday!
Feature Boats
The feature boat line up at the PSP Southampton Boat Show is always a spectacular line up, and one not to be missed. This year, the first to be confirmed is Spirit of Mystery, the vessel that Pete Goss has replicated from the historical Mystery. Goss will attempt to sail to Australia in Spirit of Mystery from the UK in mid-October without the aid of modern electrical or navigational systems.
OnBoard
Younger visitors are given the chance to experience sailing first hand through OnBoard, a fantastic initiative organised by the RYA, supported by the British Marine Federation and sponsored by TEAMORGIN - also a Show partner. This free feature, aimed specifically at 8-16 year olds aims to introduce sailing as a sport for all - whatever the needs or the ability of the individual.
Try-a-Boat
Visitors to the Show will again have the opportunity to experience the thrill of being out on the water with the ever popular Try-a-Boat feature. For the 40th Show there's more boats than ever before, so whether the visitor is a bold beginner or a sailing veteran, they can choose from a more varied selection of the latest RIBs, powerboats and yachts to enjoy getting out on the water for free.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DAY
The Show will also host the new and improved Guinness Village, a favourite of Show visitors. The ever popular Sunseeker Champagne Bar and the Show's own restaurant are also returning, all designed to make sure that visitors are well refreshed as they enjoy their day at the Show.
Platinum Ticket
For the more discerning visitor looking for that little bit of luxury, the Show will premiere the new, exclusive platinum ticket. For £85, platinum ticket holders will benefit from their own hospitality lounge throughout the day enjoying complimentary tea, coffee, lunch and refreshments.
Platinum ticket holders are guaranteed an excursion on the Millionaire's Yacht Experience. Taking a 40 minute trip on a luxury 60 foot power boat, platinum ticket holders will also be treated to a glass of champagne. This prestigious ticket is limited to only 108 people a day.
Andrew Williams, MD of NBS, comments: "We have listened to what our visitors have said, taking on board their feedback, and have decided to launch a premium ticket service to those visitors who want more from their day out with us. From initial indications, we are fully expecting these limited availability tickets to be sold out everyday of the Show."
Great value for money
Visitors can enjoy great value for money when visiting the NBS portfolio of Shows at both Southampton and London through the flexible combi-ticket deal. With this ticket, guests can spend two full days at either Southampton or London, or one day at both Shows. Available via the ticket hotline, which goes live on the 28th May 2008, on 0844 209 0333 or on the door, this great "combination" ticket deal gives visitors the freedom to choose how they visit the UK's premier Boat Shows. The combi-ticket deal costs just £20 in advance or £25 on the door.
Along with the combi-ticket, visitors can once again make the most of the successful 'Kids Go Free' promotion, where children aged 15 or under get free admission - provided they are with a paying adult.
Booking your tickets and planning your day
To book tickets simply call the ticket hotline on 0844 209 0333 or book online at www.southamptonboatShow.com from 23 May 2008. Also visit the website for the latest updates on features and attractions, confirmed exhibitors, product launches that will be taking place at the Show and all the information you'll need to plan your day.
source: Southampton Boat Show