Ruling the Waves

It’s hard to believe that Southampton Boat Show which opened today is in its 48th year.
Hard to believe, because since the days of the first show, back in 1968, I can claim to have been to each and every one of them.
Mind you, it has developed somewhat over the years and today’s festival of boating  attracts both boat owners  and would be sailors from anywhere with an affinity for sailing.  Every year, the Show welcomes a mix of historic and innovative boats and this year is no different with over 60 boats making their debut.
Featuring one of Europe’s largest purpose-built marinas, and as one of the world’s top 10 Boat Shows, the event also plays host to lots of family-friendly attractions.
The Show kicked off this morning with guests like, actress Michelle Keegan and the British Olympic Sailing Team making an appearance.
 
On the back of her new hit television show, Michelle Keegan officially opened the Show. It also played host to the British Sailing Team, which included Olympic medallists, Giles Scott, Saskia Clark, Hannah Mills and Nick Dempsey. 
It also set the scene for the process to select the British Yachtsman of the Year and the Young Sailor of the Year, top sailing accolades organised by The Yachting Journalists’ Association and partners boats.com, the Hampshire based sailing media company.
 
 
The Show runs daily until Sunday, September 25, and hosts the very best that the international boating world has to offer.  Hundreds of boats are on display, with 330 on the stunning marina itself.