BRITAIN'S biggest festival of boating, Southampton International Boat Show returns to the shores of the Solent next week.

From Friday (September 16) until Sunday September 25, excluding the day of the Queen's funeral, the whole family can experience life on the water at Europe’s largest purpose-built show marina, with a backdrop featuring everything from kayaks to catamarans, SUPS to superyachts and the world’s most exciting and innovative boats.

The show is back with firm family favourites from previous years, alongside multiple new attractions. Whether you’re a boating enthusiast or are looking to dip your toes in the water for the first time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

READ MORE: The King and Queen in Hamble is the world's favourite yachting bar

The On the Water Zone hosts a whole selection of watersports under expert guidance, from paddleboards and kayaks to dinghy sailing. It's designed to whet the appetite of visitors and is included in the ticket price. With Try-a-Boat you can try something new or sharpen your existing watersports skills with experts on hand to help. Powerboats, yachts, RIBS and a plethora of other craft are available to try.

Aside from some of the best boats in the industry, Southampton International Boat Show offers entertainment, interactive attractions and delicious food and drink. Visit the show’s Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, Guinness bar and tasty food stalls for a taste of the ocean not to be missed. Expect fresh-out-of-the-water oysters, an array of international street food, delicious cocktails and chilled Champagne.

Surround yourself with beautifully crafted yachts, the latest boat models and innovative marine gadgets from over 650 global marine brands and as always, up to two children go free with every adult ticket, making it the perfect event for the entire family.

Daily Echo:

Ticket holders can also find holidays, books, courses, all types of clothing from specialist offshore kit to the latest fashions and all types of craft. 

On the Foredeck Stage, enjoy talks from leading experts on a whole host of topics from Swallows and Amazons to buying a boat; rowing the Atlantic to flare disposal. You’ll be able to ask the experts your burning questions and enjoy conversations with like-minded enthusiasts.

Celebrate the boats and craftsmanship that stand the test of time in the Classic Boat Zone.

Daily Echo:

Tickets, priced from £26, from southamptonboatshow.com

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook