Make a splash at the Southampton International Boat Show
The Southampton International Boat Show returns to the city’s waterfront from 18–27 September 2026, bringing ten action-packed days of boats, watersports, live entertainment and family fun to Mayflower Park.
One of the biggest events in Southampton’s calendar and the UK’s flagship boating and watersports festival, the show is a must-visit whether you’re a seasoned sailor, looking for your next boat, keen to try a new watersport or simply searching for a brilliant day out by the water.
With 700+ marine brands, 500+ watercraft, a spectacular purpose-built marina and plenty of opportunities to get out on the water yourself, there’s lots to discover in 2026.
Opening times
Friday 18 – Saturday 26 September: 10am–6pm daily
Friday and Saturday evenings: The Shipyard remains open until 9pm
Sunday 27 September: 10am–4.30pm
Opening times and programme details may be subject to change, so check the official event website before travelling.
Book your tickets
Tickets for the Southampton International Boat Show 2026 are on sale now, with adult tickets currently available from £29 and children aged 15 and under admitted free.
Premium ticket options are also available for visitors looking to make their day extra special.
Special offers for ticket holders
If you have a ticket for this year's boat show, don't miss these special offers in the city. Simply show a valid ticket to staff before making a purchase
What’s on at Southampton International Boat Show 2026?
There’s much more to the Southampton International Boat Show than admiring boats from the shore.
Explore the Show Marina
Head to the spectacular purpose-built marina, where more than 250 craft will be on display. From impressive sailing yachts and motorboats to the latest launches and marine innovations, it’s one of the highlights of the show. Visitors can discover new models, speak to marine experts and explore some exceptional boats up close.
Get out on the water
Don’t just look at the water – get out there and experience it!
The popular Try a Boat experience returns for 2026, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a range of boating experiences. You can also head to The Lake to try activities including paddleboarding and kayaking, with equipment and instruction provided. There are opportunities to try diving too, making the show a fantastic introduction to watersports for beginners as well as experienced enthusiasts. Many of the on-water activities are included with admission to the show, with sessions bookable during your visit.
Live entertainment at The Shipyard
After exploring the show, head to The Shipyard for food, drinks and live music. There will be live music throughout all ten days, while Fridays and Saturdays bring extended evening entertainment, with The Shipyard remaining open until 9pm. It’s the perfect excuse to turn your visit into an evening out in Southampton.
Discover the Wooden Boat Stage
Following its successful debut in 2025, the Wooden Boat Stage returns bigger for 2026, celebrating traditional skills, craftsmanship and the people keeping the art of wooden boatbuilding alive. New for this year is the Wooden Boat Stage Afloat, allowing visitors to see a collection of classic and wooden boats on the water.
A great family day out
There’s plenty for younger visitors too, with a programme of on and off-water activities designed to keep young adventurers entertained. Even better, children aged 15 and under can visit the show for free, making the Southampton International Boat Show a great option for a September family day out.
Food and drink
All that exploring is bound to work up an appetite. You’ll find a choice of street food and refreshments around the show, alongside popular spots including the Guinness Bar. The Shipyard is also a great place to grab something to eat or drink while enjoying the live entertainment. With the show right in the heart of Southampton, you’re only a short walk from even more restaurants, cafés, pubs and bars across the city centre.
Make a weekend of it in Southampton
Why squeeze everything into one day?
Turn your visit to the Southampton International Boat Show into a city break and give yourself time to discover more of this historic maritime city.
Explore Southampton’s medieval walls and Old Town, discover the city’s fascinating links with the Titanic, browse the shops at Westquay or enjoy dinner and drinks overlooking the water. Southampton also makes a great base for exploring Hampshire, the New Forest and the wider south coast.
Planning an overnight stay? Explore places to stay in Southampton, from city-centre hotels to waterfront accommodation, and make a weekend of the Boat Show.
Getting to the Southampton International Boat Show
The show takes place at:
Mayflower Park
Southampton
SO14 2AS
By train
Southampton Central is the city’s main railway station, with direct services connecting Southampton with destinations including London, Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Bristol and beyond.
From the station, Mayflower Park and the city centre are within easy reach on foot or by local transport.
By bus
Southampton is served by an extensive local bus network connecting the city centre with surrounding areas. If you’re staying outside the centre, travelling by bus can be an easy way to reach the Boat Show without bringing the car into the heart of the city.
Park & Ride
During the Southampton International Boat Show, dedicated travel arrangements may be available to help visitors reach the event.
If you’re driving, check the latest Boat Show travel information before setting off and consider using Park & Ride where available.
On foot
Once you arrive, Southampton is a very walkable city. Mayflower Park is ideally positioned for exploring the Old Town, Westquay and the waterfront on foot, so you can combine your visit to the show with shopping, sightseeing, food and drink without needing to get back in the car.
By ferry
Visitors travelling from the Isle of Wight can reach Southampton via Red Funnel services, arriving at Town Quay close to Mayflower Park.
Planning a Business Meeting?
If you’re combining your visit to the Southampton International Boat Show with a business meeting, Southampton has a fantastic choice of professional spaces to suit everything from one-to-one meetings to larger corporate gatherings. From stylish hotel meeting rooms and waterfront venues to flexible city-centre spaces, you’ll find plenty of options close to the action. Visit Meet Southampton to explore venues, facilities and inspiration for your next meeting or event.
