British Marine is encouraging professionals from across the marine industry to register for Women in Marine 2026, an inspiring evening dedicated to career development, networking and celebrating the diverse opportunities available within the sector.
Taking place on Wednesday 23 September at Southampton International Boat Show, the event will bring together an exceptional panel of young female professionals working across marine manufacturing, superyachts, yacht brokerage and marine law.
Under this year’s theme, ‘Real Women. Real Jobs. Real Opportunities.’, the panel will share honest stories about their careers, discussing the opportunities they’ve embraced, the challenges they’ve overcome and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Following record attendance in 2025, Women in Marine has become one of the most anticipated networking events at the Show, providing an opportunity for women already working in the marine industry to connect with peers, gain fresh perspectives and hear from professionals succeeding across different areas of the sector.
While the event is designed primarily to support those already working in marine, British Marine is also encouraging attendees to bring a colleague, apprentice, graduate, student, career changer or anyone considering a future in the industry.
Hearing directly from professionals with very different career journeys offers a valuable insight into the breadth of opportunities available across today’s marine industry, making Women in Marine an ideal event for anyone exploring a future in the sector.
Leading this year’s discussion will be award-winning presenter and communications specialist Emma York, Founder of Fresh Approach Digital, alongside an inspiring panel comprising of:
- Anisah Roberts, Manufacturing Technician at Williams Jet Tenders and the inaugural British Marine Apprentice of the Year, who will discuss her journey from teaching into engineering and her passion for apprenticeships and STEM careers.
- Erin Smith, Sales Account Executive at British Marine, who will share firsthand experiences of working aboard a 90-metre sailing yacht and the realities of life in the superyacht industry.
- Lucy Goff, Co-Founder and Partner at Ocean Legal, who will provide insight into building a successful legal career within the marine sector and championing greater representation across the industry.
- Sophie Kemp, Sailing Yacht Broker at Berthon International, who has turned a passion for offshore sailing into a successful brokerage career, helping clients achieve their bluewater cruising ambitions.
Following the panel discussion, attendees will enjoy informal networking over drinks and canapes, with the opportunity to meet fellow professionals and continue the conversation.
In addition to the evening event, a programme of Women in Marine talks and presentations will take place throughout the day at Southampton International Boat Show, providing further opportunities to hear from industry leaders and learn more about careers, leadership and professional development.
Women in Marine 2026 will also continue its support of Room to Read, helping raise awareness and funds for its Girls’ Education Programme, which empowers young women around the world through education. Alongside our sister event, Women in the Marine Industry International, this year we are aiming to raise $25,000 to support an entire school!
Find out more about Room to Read and donate here: www.roomtoread.org
Event Details
📅 Wednesday 23 September
🕔 Panel & Networking Event: 17:00–19:00
📍 Dockside, Southampton International Boat Show
Places are limited and advance registration is recommended.
To find out more and register, visit: https://www.britishmarine.co.uk/membership/events/southampton-international-boat-show/women-marine-2026
Please note you need to have a valid show ticket to access the venue. Purchase your show ticket here:Southampton International Boat Show Tickets
