Popular boat show returns with host of activities taking place during 10-day festival

A popular boat show is returning this month with a host of activities taking place during the 10-day festival.

The Southampton Boat Show, the UK’s ultimate marine festival, is back for its 57th edition in Mayflower Park from Friday 18 – Sunday 27 September.

The event promises action-packed days of boating, water sports and entertainment on the waterfront.

At the heart of the show, Europe’s biggest purpose-built show marina will bring together more than 250 craft on the water, including an exciting line-up of UK and world debuts, from the Nautitech 41 Type S and high-performance Dragonfly 40 Carbon to the new Duchy 45 and Fairline Targa 58 GTO.

Visitors can step aboard this year’s collection of showstopping attraction boats, spanning historic vessels to cutting-edge racing yachts. Highlights include Helen Mary R, the 2026 Sail Training Vessel of the Year; Tectona, a stunning 20m gaff ketch built entirely of teak on a beach in India in 1928; Revolution, a spectacular 50ft offshore racing catamaran; and the brand-new Clipper RX, giving visitors the chance to be among the first to step aboard the next generation of Clipper Race yacht.

With approximately 500 watercraft and over 700 marine brands on display, the show brings together an unrivalled range for buyers to explore, alongside all the kit and equipment needed to get out on the water.

Making its debut on 26 September, the Key Yachting J/70 Invitational Cup brings competitive sailing to the show for the first time, supported by the Royal Thames Yacht Club and British Marine. Twelve teams will go head-to-head throughout the day, battling it out for the win before the champions are crowned in front of the crowd.

The Shipyard brings live music to the show every day, with headline acts and standout performances throughout the week. New for 2026, it will stay open late on both Fridays and Saturdays, bringing a festival atmosphere to the waterfront until 9pm. This year's headline acts include Blue Water Giants, uniting musicians from Procol Harum/Big Country, Status Quo, Simple Minds, Tears for Fears, and Robbie Williams’ band into one into one incredible live act. Britain’s Got Talent finalist The Gloria Estefan Experience will also headline, bringing the sounds of Gloria Estefan to the stage.

A wide range of street food will be on offer throughout the show, alongside the return of the popular Guinness Bar. For something extra special, visitors can upgrade to the Premium Experience, which includes access to the private Waterside Lounge, with lunch, refreshments and a range of additional perks included.

For those looking for a fun-filled family day out, guests can enjoy a packed programme of on and off-water activities to keep all ages entertained throughout the show from a dedicated children's play area to family quiz sessions at the Shipyard on 20 and 27 September, hosted by award-winning comedy duo Luke and Elliot.

There will also be a special appearance from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flying over the show on 18, 19 and 20 September, weather permitting, alongside the HMS Collingwood Band Parade on 26 September, with live performances taking place throughout the day.

Earle Stanner, CEO of British Marine, said: "Every year, our aim is to get people out on the water and give them a brilliant day on the waterfront. This year's line-up brings that to life, from an extensive range of exhibitor and attraction boats to world debuts and inspiring talks from boating legends.

“Whether visitors are lifelong sailors or bringing the family for a day out on the water, we can't wait to welcome everyone to the show.”

Standard adult admission starts from £29 for a single-day access, with children aged 15 and under visiting for free. For more information, visit https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/