The Southampton International Boat Show has announced the return of the Foredeck Stage, sponsored for the second year by Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly. This year, the Foredeck Stage promises an even more enriching experience with new speakers and talks, as well as show favourites, designed to inspire, inform, and entertain visitors throughout the show.
Nestled among the bustling stands of Ocean Hall, the Foredeck Stage offers the perfect spot for visitors to unwind and engage with a diverse line-up of speakers from across the maritime world. This year the show is welcoming some of the biggest names from within the boating community to help celebrate the 55th event.
Among the legends already confirmed is 4-time Paralympian (Sailing), Triple World Champion, Motivational Speaker and Coach, Hannah Stodel. Hannah will be speaking about inclusivity in boating and her personal sailing experiences.
Legend of the marine industry and former Director of Hunter boats of Essex, well known yachting journalist Peter Poland, will be talking through the evolution of yacht design. Yachting Monthly columnist, Dick Durham, confesses all in ‘Confessions of a Cruising Correspondent’, whilst Professional Ropeworker and co-founder of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, Des Pawson MBE, will be sharing his knowledge on all things knots.
Another new addition to the Foredeck Stage line-up is a talk from Expedition Zero who are setting out to redefine the future of adventure sailing by building the world’s first fleet of net-zero expedition yachts for lease to commercial operators. Whilst for those eager to stay ahead of the curve the Foredeck Stage will also delve into the future of boating technology, from electric propulsion to cutting-edge navigation systems.
The ‘How to get afloat’ talks will explain and recommend the best methods of getting out on the water near you, whether you’re a first time paddleboarder or seeking to master the art of foiling. Visitors can also look forward to advice on ‘How to buy a boat’, perfect for first time buyers and the chance to hear from decorated Olympians as they recount their thrilling adventures and triumphs on the water.
The ‘Meet the Editors’ talks will provide specialist insights from leading titles like Motorboats & Yachting, Yachting World, Yachting & Boating World, Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly.
Visitors will also hear from a whole host of show favourites including sailor, author and presenter, Tom Cunliffe; author of the Stress-Free series of sailing books, Duncan Wells and his stress-free tips for casting off and coming alongside, whist the Foredeck Stage compere, Ben Sutcliffe Davies, returns to the stage for ‘The Surveyor’s Notebook’, a light-hearted but very informative presentation on the importance and the expectations of what a survey can provide for you.
Mark Ring, Head of Events, said: “The Foredeck Stage has always been a hub of inspiration and learning at the Southampton International Boat Show. It’s an opportunity for our visitors to gain invaluable insights, meet industry icons, and, most importantly, feel inspired by the world of boating. We believe our new talks and speakers will enrich the show experience for everyone, making it more vibrant, informative, and entertaining than ever.”
Get your ticket
Get your discounted Southampton International Boat Show tickets – save £10 with promo code AAS2024
Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/
You can also make a donation to this year’s show charity when purchasing your tickets. This year we are delighted to be working with the Southampton Hospitals Charity and their Light the South art trail to raise funds for Southampton Children’s Hospital, one of the top children’s hospitals in the UK. Your donation will help transform the facilities and hospital experience for young patients, deliver vital support for families and continue life-changing research to keep your children’s hospital truly world class.
Want to make your visit extra special? Treat yourself with our Quayside Club package – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/
The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except on the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm. The Shipyard will remain open until 9pm on both Saturday 14 and Saturday 21 September.
