Southampton Boat Show announces “brilliant” opening weekend

Organisers of the Southampton Boat Show have announced a “brilliant” first four days of the show, with strong sales results reported.

23 brands made world debuts on the show’s opening day including Oyster Yachts, Princess Yachts and Sunseeker International. An additional seven made their European debut, and another 33 new vessels are to be debuted over the next seven days.

Murray Ellis, managing director of British Marine boat shows commented, “We’ve had a terrific start to the 2016 show. We are already hearing of strong sales reports from our exhibitors with many reporting an increase compared to this time last year.

“As a global show, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world, this is an important aspect of retaining the strong business reputation of the Southampton Boat Show.”

The show opened with the British Sailing Team, which featured Olympic medallists Giles Scott, Saskia Clark, Hannah Mills and Nick Dempsey. Award-winning actress Michelle Keegan also helped to open the show. Giles Scott, who won Olympic gold in Rio said, “The Southampton Boat Show is a highlight on any sailor’s calendar and is a great place to spend time with family and friends. It’s something everyone should experience.”

Speaking about the success of the show Sebastian Hirst, head of sales at Sunsail and The Moorings added, “It has been a great Southampton Boat Show so far for us. We have taken more bookings so far this show than we would usually expect, with more people committing to booking here and now, rather than taking the quote and contacting us later.

“We are also impressed with the busy buzz about the show and we are very happy with the new layout of Ocean Hall and our stand position – it feels much more open and welcoming.”

For more information, visit Southampton Boat Show.