How many people went to Southampton International Boat Show?

In its 54th year, the 10-day event has been heralded a success – despite adverse weather conditions.

The show welcomed more than 650 craft, with in excess of 350 boats berthed in the marina alone.

This was enjoyed by more than 92,000 people over the course of the event, which ran from September 15 to September 24.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine which organises the show, said the high winds and rain did not dampen people’s spirits.

She said: “There has been a great atmosphere at this year’s show.

“We have been delighted to welcome over 92,000 people over the past 10 days and we had been well on track to hit our target of over 100,000 visitors this year, until the bad weather hit.”

She added: “This year marks our first full show after bouncing back from Covid and since last year’s closure out of respect of the Queen’s passing and the feedback from exhibitors from across the industry has been positive, with many indicating strong sales.”

Popular amongst visitors was the Red Arrows flypast on the first Saturday, while the brand-new shipyard boasting live music and DJ sets was a ‘crowd pleaser’.

READ MORE: Watch as Red Arrows fly over Southampton

A guest appearance from Captain Sandy from TV Show Below Deck Mediterranean was a popular addition to the show.

Hundreds of people joined her on the Foredeck Stage as she spoke about her career and life at the helm.

Lesley said: “The fantastic new Beach Haven and Watersports Lake was a massive hit with visitors as they enjoyed kayaking and paddleboarding, model boating and even SUP yoga.

“Plus, visitors were also able to get out on the water onboard a selection of incredible and historic craft including the majestic tall ship Thalassa, an F8 landing craft, the motor gun boat 81, the high-speed launch 102 and even a mini cruise ship.”

The show was hit by lightning on the first Saturday, and battered by high winds on Tuesday and Wednesday, meaning all water activities were closed.

But 9,000 people still enjoyed activities on the water across the show, from dinghy sailing, paddleboarding and kayaking to RIB rides, yacht cruising and motorboating.

Jo Davies from Princess Yachts said that despite the weather, a record number of appointments were made with the company.

She said: “The sunny weekend brought out the crowds in significant numbers. It’s been very busy for us and a very successful show.

“British Marine has done a great job expanding the show and there’s more to attract people than ever before.

“Southampton International Boat Show is a marker in our calendar and long may it continue.”