The PSP Southampton Boat Show, in association with ITV Meridian, drew to a close today, concluding ten days of boating fun, celebration and business. A very encouraging total of 121,389* visitors descended on Mayflower Park between 12-21 September to enjoy the 40th Show.
The Show, which boasts one of Europe’s largest purpose-built marinas, treated visitors to a bumper year with over 600 exhibitors and more than 1,000 boats on display, ranging from 1.5m dinghies to 37m tri-deck motor yachts. To ensure an unforgettable 40th, the Show was opened with golden fanfare by the victorious sailors from Team GB, led by Ben Ainslie, and a host of boating and television legends from the past five decades including Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Dame Ellen MacArthur, Steve Curtis MBE, Lady Pippa Blake and Kate O’Mara.
Visitors were spoiled for choice with the action-packed schedule of daily events, displays and interactive features. Crowds gathered at the Main Stage – Powered by Fairline to watch retro fashion shows and see Felicity Macnamara be crowned Miss PSP Southampton Boat Show; visitors climbed aboard the Show’s tall ship Jeanie Johnston as well as a multitude of visiting feature boats; while others took the chance to get on the water trying RIBs, powerboats, dinghies, canoes and kayaks. The introduction of Ladies Day was a great success and the new Platinum Ticket offered a little extra for those visitors in search of luxury at the Show.
Paul Strzelecki, chairman of National Boat Shows said: “The Show and the industry in general have faced a challenge by way of a series of difficult economic situations hitting the global banking industry and financial markets since the start 10 days ago. We experienced a slower beginning but were delighted to finish the Show only 5% lower than last year’s stunning attendance which was the third highest in the Show’s history.
“Feedback shows that our visitors have had a great day out with us, with many taking the chance to get afloat and our exhibitors remain positive about sales and the long-term benefits of the Show.”
Andrew Williams, managing director of National Boat Shows continued: “Despite these being tough economic times, our buoyant ticket sales illustrate that many visitors continue to see the Show as an important date in the boating calendar – a testament to the appeal of the Show, the exhibitors and all involved. We’ve also had the benefit of good weather and a wealth of attractions to explore, which have helped draw crowds out onto the marina day after day.
“The industry is very conscious of the current economic climate, and while sales have not been as robust as 2007 where we enjoyed a strong year, many exhibitors have exceeded targets for this year – which is encouraging. We are of course aware that this may not be the case for all exhibitors and NBS will continue to ensure we produce the best possible showcase for the industry at London and Southampton to maximise sales opportunities for all.”
Frank Dixie, managing director of Show title sponsor PSP, said: “The Show has exceeded all expectations. We came here as title sponsors not knowing what to expect but we’re delighted we have surpassed our targets, both in orders and brand awareness. The friendliness, not just from NBS and BMF but also the exhibitors, has been overwhelming, and we will miss the atmosphere of being here at the Show.
“The highlight for us, through our partnership with MDL, was the loading of a ship heading to Spain which passed the Show on Tuesday – and also taking our first order earlier in the week, as a result of our sponsorship.”
The Show has also played host to a number of celebrities throughout the week. Eddie Jordan kicked off the Show buying an Elan yacht, while others spotted have included Claire Sweeney, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Timothy Spall. Olympic medallists Tim Brabants and David Florence also took to the water and showed off their paddling skills.
The British Marine Federation (BMF) continued to work hard behind the scenes, organising numerous events and incentives to help demonstrate both the value of becoming a member, and to encourage current members to make the most of their membership.
The BMF, along with the RYA and IWA also provided an update on how the end of the derogation of Red Diesel will be implemented as of 1 November 2008: private pleasure craft owners will be able to continue to use red diesel for propulsion use, but at a modified duty rate while red diesel at a rebated rate will still be available for domestic purposes, such as heating and lighting.
Recreational boaters will declare the percentage of fuel to be used for propulsion and domestic use respectively, with analysis by both the industry and HMRC suggesting a split of 60% for propulsion and 40% for domestic use (heating, cooking etc) probably reflects most people’s use and it is therefore likely that many users will declare such an apportionment.