The Southampton International Boat Show will welcome an exciting new addition to its ten-day programme with the launch of the Wooden Boat Stage, a platform dedicated to celebrating the craft and culture of British wooden boatbuilding, hosted by the passionate community driving its ongoing tradition and innovation.
The new stage is a collaboration between the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association (WBTA), the Boat Building Academy (BBA), and Women in Boatbuilding (WIBB) — three organisations at the forefront of keeping traditional skills relevant, accessible, and inspiring the next generation. This marks the first time these groups have come together to deliver a packed programme of talks, demonstrations, performances, and practical workshops, all highlighting the enduring value and exciting future of wooden boatbuilding.
Located beside the main entrance of the show in the new Explore Boating area of the show, the Wooden Boat Stage will be housed in a striking, purpose-built setting, with an entrance shaped like the frame of an upturned wooden boat, making it an immediate and immersive stop for all visitors. The stage will operate daily throughout the 10 days of the show.
Audiences will enjoy live demonstrations of both traditional and modern boatbuilding skills including carving, steam bending, oar and paddle making, epoxy work, knotting and rigging. Alongside this, the stage will host a range of engaging content including panel discussions, author talks, music, short films and workshops, all designed to educate, inspire and invite hands-on participation.
Jasmine Hill, Event Director at the Southampton International Boat Show, says: “The launch of the Wooden Boat Stage marks a truly meaningful addition to this year’s show. It’s not only a celebration of craftsmanship, but also a timely response to the urgent need to safeguard traditional skills and inspire the next generation. We’re proud to provide a platform where creativity and hands-on learning come together to honour the rich heritage and promising future of wooden boatbuilding.”
Programme highlights
- Julia Jones book launch – The celebrated nautical author unveils her latest title in person, exploring maritime storytelling, heritage and the lasting allure of wooden boats.
- Michael Dennett in conversation – One of the UK’s most respected traditional boatbuilders shares stories from a lifetime immersed in woodcraft and restoration.
- The Big Boats panel – Conservation for the Future – A major panel chaired by Hannah Cunliffe (CEO, National Historic Ships), discussing preservation of large wooden vessels and the future of maritime heritage.
- Youtuber Dan Lee – The online boatbuilding star discusses innovations including 3D scanning in wooden boat design and restoration.
- Guest Speakers – Appearances from boat designer and sailor Hanneke Boon, Matt Lis of Woodbridge Boatbuilders, Clementine Mollier, shipwright on HMS Victory, and graduates and tutors from the Boat Building Academy.
A Vision for a Sustainable Craft
This new addition comes at a crucial time. Traditional wooden boatbuilding faces mounting pressure from an ageing workforce and dwindling training routes; the Wooden Boat Stage represents a bold statement of optimism. Visitors will discover that wood is not only good for boats, but also for people and for the planet – and that wooden boat ownership can be a sustainable and deeply rewarding pursuit.
From showcasing boats built using centuries-old methods to modern sustainable construction, the stage will demonstrate how the craft of wooden boatbuilding is evolving to meet contemporary challenges. Expert speakers will also address practical concerns like commissioning, surveying and maintenance, helping to demystify wooden boat ownership.
For those curious about entering the trade or learning the craft, tutors and graduates from the Boat Building Academy will be on hand to share advice and promote world-leading training programmes.
Belinda Joslin of Women in Boatbuilding adds: “For Women in Boatbuilding, the Wooden Boat Stage is also more than just the stage, it’s positioning our organisation and diversity at the heart of the industry.
“Our goal has been to create a fun stage that showcases the amazing people and talent in our UK industry. We’re delighted that we’re making it happen!”
Will Reed, Director at the Boat Building Academy, says: “I am delighted to collaborate with Women in Boatbuilding and the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association in forming the first ever Wooden Boat Stage at the Southampton Boat Show. This is an exciting time for wooden boat building and partnering with these two incredible organisations helps all of us and the industry to thrive.”
Colin Henwood of the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association adds: “The collaboration between Women in Boatbuilding, the Boat Building Academy and the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association to present the first Wooden Boat Stage at Southampton is clearly demonstrating our collective commitment to gender diversity, training and the future success of wooden boat building in the UK.”
The Wooden Boat Stage is being supported by Sykes Timber, Tack & Jibe, and British Marine South West.
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!
You can use discount code AASSIBS2025 to buy a ticket for any day of the Southampton International Boat Show for just £24. Book tickets, and find out more: www.southamptonboatshow.com.
The Southampton International Boat Show takes place from 19–28 September. Tickets for the event start at £29 (concessions from just £23), children aged 15 and under enter for free with an adult.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor looking to improve your skills, a family in search of new adventures, or just dipping your toes into the boating lifestyle, book your tickets to the Southampton International Boat Show now and secure your spot at the UK’s biggest celebration of boating and water sports.
