With less than three months to go, the countdown is officially on for Electrika 2026, the UK’s premier event dedicated exclusively to electric narrowboats and sustainable inland waterways travel.
Taking place on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 July at the Brinklow Waterside & Marina near Rugby, the event is set to be the largest gathering of electric boating enthusiasts, manufacturers, and experts to date. As the “silent revolution” on our canals gains momentum, Electrika 2026 offers a unique opportunity for early adopters and those curious about making the switch to electric propulsion to see the technology in action.
Expert Talks and Knowledge Sharing
The heart of Electrika is its educational programme. This year’s lecture marquee will host a series of deep-dive sessions led by industry pioneers and experienced owners. Key highlights from the 2026 schedule include:
- Optimum Hull Design for Electric Narrowboats: Discover how hull efficiency is critical to maximising range and performance.
- Install Guidance for LiFePo4 Batteries: Essential technical advice for safe and effective lithium battery setups.
- Total Energy Management: Learning how to balance solar, shore power, and propulsion for true off-grid living.
- Electric Motor Efficiency: A technical look at the latest motor technologies driving the industry forward.
- Real Life Experiences: from conserving power when continuously cruising to tackling the River Trent, two existing owners will share their experiences.
Leading Exhibitors & Boat Builders
The exhibition area will be packed with the biggest names in electric marine technology. Visitors can meet with representatives from:
- Boat Builders: Ortomarine, Mothership Marine, Finesse, Elton Moss, Bluewater Boats and Aqua Narrowboats.
- Technology & Power: Vetus, Lynch Motor Company, Leoch UK, Beta Marine, Golden Arrow Marine, Voltsport and Energy Solutions.
- Support & Community: The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) and the Canal & River Trust.
The “Show Boat” Lineup
A signature feature of Electrika is the chance to step aboard real-working electric vessels. This year, a wide selection of “Show Boats” will be moored alongside the exhibition area, and all visitors will be able to book a viewing and chat with the builders. Existing owners will also be on hand throughout the day to share real-life experiences of cruising, charging, and living with electric propulsion.
Event Information & Free Tickets
Organised by Ortomarine in partnership with Aquavista, Electrika remains a free-to-attend event, though tickets are strictly limited to 500 per day to ensure a high-quality experience for all visitors.
- When: July 10th – 11th (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Where: Brinklow Waterside & Marina, Cathiron Lane, Rugby, CV23 0JH
- Tickets: Free (must be reserved in advance)
- Camping: Limited camping and motorhome pitches are available via Brinklow Marina.
For more information, to view the full exhibitor list, or to book your free tickets, visit: https://electrika.uk
