10 January

Sunseeker International announced today (10 January) that it is an official FIFA Partner for the upcoming World Cup tournament in Russia. The announced was made today during the opening of the Sunseeker stand at the London Boat Show where football legend Sir Geoff Hurst and BT Sport’s Jake Humphrey were the luxury brand’s special guests.

Sir Geoff Hurst also showcased the replica Jules Remit Trophy (the original trophy was stolen in Brazil in 1983) which was kindly loaned to Sunseeker by the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich along with Roger Hunt’s England shirt from the 1966 competition.

Sunseeker benefits from the highest level of access to the 2018 FIFA World Cup through its parent, Dalian Wanda, who signed a Tier One partnership agreement with FIFA in March 2016. As part of this agreement, Wanda will have access rights to all major FIFA competitions for the next 15 years, including the next four World Cup competitions.

Phil Popham, CEO of Sunseeker International, commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with the FIFA World Cup in Russia.  The Wanda partnership has provided Sunseeker with access to the largest sporting event on the planet which is just incredible.  This is not only the most prestigious marketing initiative for Sunseeker but for the marine industry as a whole and it will allow us to create some fantastic experiences for our clients as well giving unprecedented exposure to the Sunseeker brand.” 

 

8 January

Sunseeker International will display the replica of the Jules Rimet Trophy at their stand at the London Boat Show on Wednesday, 10 January.

The Jules Rimet Trophy was the first FIFA World Cup trophy and the one won by the England football team in 1966.  As the original was stolen in Brazil in 1983 and never recovered, this is the official replica loaned to Sunseeker by the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich along with an original 1966 England jersey worn by Roger Hunt during England’s triumphant campaign.

Along with the memorabilia, Sir Geoff Hurst, best known for scoring the goals that helped to secure victory for England in the FIFA World Cup in 1966, who will open the Sunseeker stand at the show.  

TV and radio broadcaster Jake Humphrey, who is currently the face of Premier League Football on BT Sport, will be Sunseeker’s official compere for the event. The Jules Rimet trophy will be on display on 10^th January on stand LE229 from midday.

The full display for the London Boat Show 2018 includes two show debuts, the 76 Yacht and the Predator 57 MKII.  The 76 Yacht will also be the largest model displayed at the show.

 

5 January 

Williams Jet Tenders has announced details of its latest Sportjet model – the Sportjet 435. Plans and further details will be available at the London Boat Show, which runs 10 – 14 January 2018.

The Sportjet 435 will have space to carry seven people and is designed for boats 65ft and over. The launch follows Williams unveiling its Sportjet 345 and Sportjet 395 models at Cannes in 2017.

The Sportjet 435 will measure 4.35 metres and is ideal for wakeboarding and waterskiing, as well as tendering guests from A to B. As with the rest of the William Jet Tender line, it can also be fully customised to complement its parent yacht.

Two engine options will be available with the Sportjet 435. The 90hp model will use the punchy Rotax Ace 903 engine block, and Williams claim it will reach a top speed of 4mph. The 150hp version will use the Rotax ACE 1503 engine, with a claimed top speed of 52mph.

Mathew Hornsby, Sales Director at Williams Jet Tenders, commented: “We are very excited to reveal details of the Sportjet 435 – the sixth model in the Sportjet range. The 435 was created to extend our existing range of smaller Sportjet models, offering more space with seating for up to seven passengers, without comprising style or speed.”

28 December 2018

Budget boating advocate Dave Selby will appear at the London Boat Show and will regale tales of his small-boat and intrepid adventures.

Dave will be talking at the PBO theatre on 12 January at 5pm and at 3pm on 13 January and 14 January.  Dave will also be on the main stage at midday on Friday 12 January.

In 2016, Dave sailed his 18ft boat Marlin 340 miles from the east coast to exhibit his 40-year-old Sailfish at the Southampton Boat Show. What the Practical Boat Owner columnist wanted to demonstrate was that in this day and age sailing has never been more affordable and accessible.

“Everyone who doesn’t sail thinks it’s hugely expensive and exclusive,” says Dave. “The fact is there’s an ever growing fleet of good old fibreglass boats and they’re getting cheaper all the time. For a tiny outlay, certainly a lot less than a single holiday, you can buy a boat that will open up a world of adventure and give you holidays of a lifetime, for a lifetime.”

Dave will tell the story of his big small-boat adventure and show you how you can get afloat affordably, with examples of some of the great sailing boat bargains at the budget end of the market.

Dave will also be talking about the life-changing events that inspired his adventure. In 2012 he was struck down by a rare viral condition called Guillain-Barre Syndrome. In Dave’s case, the condition means messages stop getting through to his legs around every four weeks and he has to spend around three days in hospital where antibodies from the blood of 800 donors are pumped into him to restore his legs.

“Far from holding me back, it gave me the drive for what became one of the richest experiences of my life.” To date Dave has raised over £9,000 for the Gain Charity, which funds research into this rare illness. Dave will also be signing copies of his first sailing book, The Impractical Boat Owner, a light-hearted commentary on yachting adventures.

22 December

YouTube sensation and sailing couple Elayna Carausu and Riley Whitelum (a.k.a. Sailing La Vagabonde), will appear at the London Boat Show.

With no previous sailing experience, the Australian duo have documented their incredible sailing adventures on the video channel and  have travelled 41,000 nautical miles since 2014.

The couple have 350,000 YouTube subscribers and have crossed the Mediterranean, Atlantic, Caribbean and Pacific Ocean, battled terrifying storms, pirate scares, financial breakdowns, equipment failures, water shortages and other ‘interesting’ mishaps.

Visitors will be able to meet and hear Elayna and Riley talk about their sailing adventures on Thursday 11 January 2018, between 12:00-12:30 and 13:30-14:00 at the Show’s Legends Theatre.

On appearing at the Show, Elayna and Riley said: “This will be the first time we have visited the London Boat Show and we are delighted to be able to share tales of our journeys with plenty of new faces from across the thousands of visitors. Starting our adventure as sailing newbies, we have an array of tips and interesting stories to share with others looking to take on a new hobby, or even challenge, in the New Year.”

The couple will also feature in the February edition of Yachting Monthly, disclosing what it is like to live out their cruising lives on You Tube.

The London Boat Show runs 10-14 January 2018.

6 December

Fairline Yachts has revealed its Squadron 53 and the Motor Boat & Yachting Awards finalist Targa 53 OPEN will be on display at the London Boat Show in January 2018

 

Squadron 53

The Squadron 53, designed by Alberto Mancini, has been a success for Fairline. The yacht, based on Fairline’s existing a 53ft hull, features a Mancini design from the deck upwards, showcasing the direction of Fairline’s new exterior styling.

This cruiser features a spacious main deck with a flat floor from the cockpit to the lower helm, which in turn ensures a flat ceiling in the master cabin offering a generous 6ft 4in headroom at the foot of the large double bed. 

Fairline announces location of new manufacturing facility on the south coast  

 

Targa 53 OPEN

 

This stylish cruiser has been created with entertaining and relaxation in mind. It features tapered hull glazing for maximum natural light, a spacious master cabin, galley and saloon below.  

 

 

4 December

 

Riva have announced that they will display their new powerboat Rivamare for the first time in the UK at the London Boat Show.

The stunning 39ft powerboat was launched at the 2017 Cannes Yachting Festival to much acclaim.

The Rivamare boasts clean, elegant lines and a gleaming wooden deck, synonymous with Riva’s craft.
Her cockpit and deck are beautifully designed, comfortable and practical. The cockpit features sun loungers and steps down to the sea. The main centre section of the transom opens out to form a bathing platform, with a garage to store toys.
The interior is equally as stunning with hand-stitched leather, fine woodwork and polished steel. The v-berth, which converts to a double, also serves as a seating and dining area. Rivamare also features a fully fitted bathroom with shower and wc, plus a galley.

The Rivamare will be exhibited at the London Boat Show by Riva’s UK dealer, Ventura, on Stand LA200.

17 November

Sunseeker International has announced its full line up of luxury motor yachts that will be on display at the upcoming London Boat Show which starts 10 January at London’s ExCel Exhibition Centre.

Sunseeker 76 Yacht and Predator 57 MKII, both launched at this year’s Southampton Boat Show will be on display,  along with the award-winning Manhattan 52, the Manhattan 66, and the San Remo.

Sunseeker 76 Yacht

The all-new 76 Yacht delivers luxury, sociability and entertaining space and with 23 sold to date, is already in high demand.

The 76 Yacht is a large and spacious yacht that’s however very manageable for those looking to self-crew. The use of glass throughout enhances natural light, making this a bright and airy boat in which to relax and unwind with family and friends.

The optional retractable glass skylight over the lower helm affords an open boat experience, allowing light to flood into the helm area and is complemented by a large companion seating area opposite. Natural light also flows into the main deck through extended window lines and unique full-height glazing on the port side, making the dining area a spectacular place to entertain with incredible views over the water.

Its exterior decks, now with 25% more space than her predecessor, offer a dedicated foredeck dining and sun bed areas complemented by an optional pram hood canopy and drawer refrigeration. The substantial cockpit can be specified to provide additional lounge seating or a cocktail bar whilst the option of the award-winning ‘Beach Club’ complete with BBQ grill, fold-out seating and full height ‘rain shower’ makes full use of the transom area and hydraulic bathing platform which is large enough to carry a Williams 445 tender.

The light and space are also found below deck, where there are four large ensuite cabins, including a full beam master suite with ensuite and dressing area.  The crew cabin can accommodate up to three people in an open-plan layout or can be specified with an enclosed double berth cabin.

 

Predator 57 MK II 

The Predator 57 MK II is an evolution of the Predator 57, echoing all its stand out features.

Sunseeker Predator 57 is has been designed to balance style with practicality. The updated exterior boasts sleek yet oversized pillarless’ windows down to the side deck which floods the interior with light and provides uninterrupted views from the saloon.  

The transom area now features Sunseeker’s award-winning ‘Beach Club’ – an option first introduced with the Manhattan 52 in 2016 and now a Sunseeker signature feature. This area offers an inviting space to entertain and boats a built-in BBQ, ‘rain shower’ and fold-down transom seating, plus the integral garage for the PWC, launched via the hydraulic bathing platform.

The patio door, which separates the saloon from the cockpit, lowers at the flick of a switch to create an entertaining space, adaptable for different climates thanks to a fully opening hardtop roof . 

Down below there are six berths in three cabins, with an additional crew cabin for one, whilst the full beam master cabin is located amidship with en suite, lounge seating and vanity space.

 

 

 

15 November

Ancasta have announced that the Prestige 460, 520 and 630 will all be on display at the London Show.
All the boats in the Prestige range have living spaces all on one level which provides 360^o panoramic views for all on board as well as creating an independent suite for the owner. The brand is proving to be extremely successful and there are currently over 3,600 Prestige motor yachts cruising waters around the globe.

Ancasta will also showcase the Beneteau Power Swift Trawler 35, one of the latest models in their popular Swift Trawler range. The Swift Trawler 35 boasts a semi-planing flared hull and a wheelhouse with a 360^o view which fills the interior with natural light.

The Gran Turismo 40 and 46 from their popular Gran Turismo range will also be on show. Both of these feature the Beneteau-designed Air Step® planing hull, and twin high-performance, high-technology engines.

From the Beneteau Sail, Ancasta will present the The Oceanis 38.1, 41.1 and 35.1.

 

 

24 October 

British Marine have announced that the new five-day London Boat Show, which takes place 10-14 January 2018 at London ExCel, has attracted a number of new exhibitors interested in taking part.

Around 162 companies, who didn’t exhibit at London 2017, have enquired about exhibiting at the forthcoming event. British Marine attributes this interest to the changes to next year’s show, in particular the new five-day format and the broadening the appeal of the show to new audiences.

At the moment the exhibitor numbers for the 2018 event – either those who have signed contracts or are having significant, detailed conversations about being present – are equal to the total numbers of this year’s show. These include recent sign ups such as Andark, Hobie Cat, Sail Ionian and Arba Nautika. However with more exhibitors expressing interest in participating in next year’s show, the number is set to rise. 

The new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show has also generated interest from the likes of Sunsail, Sailing Holidays and DI Yachting. This new addition to the show is widening the appeal to new audiences, offering further marketing opportunities and taking advantage of the prime holiday booking period. Bespoke London has been repositioned as a feature element within the London Show, centred around a champagne bar with a complementary retail experience. This allows for more boats and more marine exhibitors to take space.

 

Attractions at the London Boat Show 2018 will offer visitors the chance to learn, try and or plan family adventures. The attractions include:

• The Lock & Waterside Pub celebrating the inland network and the Broads in Norfolk whilst the Beach Club & Activity Pool will give visitors the chance to learn the art of dinghy sailing, kayaking or Stand Up Paddleboarding
• The Legends Theatre and Practical Boating Theatre providing expert advice, live and practical demonstrations plus the chance to see, hear and meet the legends of the sailing world
• The Show’s signature bar, the Black & White Bar returns, alongside the all-new Yachtsman’s Bar
• Bespoke London offering visitors the chance to enjoy an element of luxury whilst indulging in a glass of champagne

 

 

10 August

Sailing superstars from the past and present are set to be the focus of the 2018 London Boat Show.

Organsiers have announced a new Legends Theatre will be at the heart of the event.

“Inspiring and exciting visitors to the show and its two complementary events, the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and Bespoke London, this intimate space will be the hub for motivation, advice and knowledge,” explained British Marine Boat Shows in a media release.

Although details of who will be appearing haven’t been announced, organisers are promising that the theatre will be “packed with sailing superstars from past and present”.

Sessions throughout the day will include interviews with boating legends. It is hoped that by sharing their personal experiences they will inspire visitors to the London Boat Show 2018.

“Each guest speaker has a unique story to tell and the 2018 event will offer visitors exclusive access to the stars and their tales. Visitors can also get involved with the question and answer sessions, a unique chance to put their questions directly to the heroes of their sportor those experts who can provide top advice,” said organisers.

Continued below…

The London Boat Show 2018 is now a five-day event starting on Wednesday 10 January until Sunday 14 January.

It will also incorporate the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and Bespoke London.

 

03 August

Earlier in the year London Boat Show organiser, British Marine Boat Shows, made the announcement that the annual event would ran for just five days in 2018, rather than the usual 10 days.

The Show will also run a little later than usual this year,  from Wednesday, 10 January 2018 until Sunday, 14 January 2018.

British Marine said at the time that the changes were made following feedback from visitors and exhibitors, but promised the show would still “draw on its rich heritage” and offer “a wealth of business and networking opportunities as well as quality visitors”.
The Show now will have three separate events under one roof at the London ExCel: the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show on the one side and Bespoke London on the other.

British Marine magazine and its editor, Kim Hollamby, caught up with Chief Officer of Boat Shows, Murray Ellis, to ask what has prompted this decision.
Ellis says: “The world has completely changed and it was time for the Boards and British Marine Boat Shows team to stop and think about what we needed to do with London,”.

“The results of
 the 2017 London Boat Show and subsequent research prompted that it looked great – as it always does – it remained important and relevant but it didn’t deliver sufficient quantity and quality of visitors to the very diverse market sectors represented by our exhibitors. Business was still done, loyal exhibitors and visitors still value the Show but our audience was diluted across a 10- day period. The Show also started close to the end of the Christmas break, which was necessary because ExCeL London is very busy now and our traditional early January window is the only one available to us. Importance of the Show.”

Ellis continues: “It’s important to remember that the London Boat Show has a strong profile with the general public. It provides a key platform to showcase the marine industry in the capital and the perfect venue to meet with government ministers and other key influencers. We also use it for essential activity such as our Meet the Buyer programme and association meetings. And it provides a financial contribution towards the broader work of British Marine on behalf of all members. So, its influence stretches well beyond what you see on the floor of the South Hall.

“However we could not keep it as it was. Proposals were drawn up and discussed in February by a joint meeting of the British Marine Boat Shows Board and British Marine Management Board. That enabled the non- executive directors, who are voted onto these boards as the representatives of our membership, to make rapid decisions in time for the 2018 Show.

“Major boat shows around the world are typically shorter now and by taking the decision to move to a duration of five days we can also change the start day further into January. Exhibitor feedback suggests this is the right course of action and it will attract those who had previously been put off by the high impact of staffing and other costs associated with a 10-day run.

 “Once the timeframe was decided the thought was we shouldn’t just settle for a London Boat Show delivered to the same formula over a shorter period but look to see how we could introduce new audiences that deliver different dynamics and markets. We’ve seen how social media is influencing the way that people like to receive marketing messages as if you are speaking with them individually. The original London Boat Show format was too broad to be able to do that effectively and we wanted to guarantee that the right visitors identified with as many of the strands represented as possible.”

British Marine Boat Shows looked at different areas of the marine industry to deliver something extra special.

“We looked at several sectors, such as fishing and diving which seemed obvious areas to explore, but found these markets weren’t big enough to sustain a Show of their own.”, says Murray Ellis.

“Watersports and boating holidays however are clearly growth sectors and really important ones given what we are learning about the next generations. Stand up paddleboarding, for example, is currently the fastest growth area in terms of getting people out onto the water. January is the busiest time for people booking holidays, making it the perfect time to promote sea charter, flotilla, inland hire and boating activity breaks. All can draw new exhibitors and new audiences, so we decided to create the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show.

“We also looked at the challenges posed by the broad breadth of the marine industry, from kayaks to superyachts. We need to deliver a Show that’s right for exhibitors and attracts the right visitors. At the luxury end of the market you need to sell lifestyle. The shorter duration of the Show will generate savings for most companies on staff accommodation and subsistence, but there might be an option of simplifying stand construction too and I’d urge exhibitors to look at that.

“Response to-date has generally been positive. A good number of companies, including major names, have already committed and we are in discussions with many more, including some who will be returning to London after a break, or exhibiting for the first time, attracted by the shorter duration.”

The Chief Officer of Boat Shows concludes: “Reducing the duration from 10 days to five and adding two Shows are bold changes but they demonstrate that we are committed to making the London Boat Show work. This is a breath of fresh air – the time for fine tuning is over and we need to create genuinely new opportunities for the industry.”

 

15 June

Sunseeker International will be exhibiting their range of luxury motor yachts at the 2018 London Boat Show.

The British boat builder, which has its headquarters in Poole, has been a notable part of the London Boat Show for 60 years, showcasing their brand to thousands of visitors at the event.

Sean Robertson from Sunseeker International believes changes to the show – making it just five days and adding two additional shows – will be beneficial.

“We are delighted to be returning once again to the world-famous London Boat Show. The new changes that have been announced promise for an exciting start to the 2018 season and we’re very much looking forward to being a part of it,” he said.

The Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and Bespoke London, which has been created to target the higher-end of the boating world, will run alongside the London Boat Show 2018.

Alongside Sunseeker International, other UK and international companies who will be exhibiting at the London Boat Show 2018 include Beneteau, Dometic, English Harbour Yachts, Ribeye, Garmin and Navigators & General

Chief officer of Boat Shows at British Marine, Murray Ellis, commented: “We’re pleased to welcome Sunseeker International to the 2018 London Boat Show, a key British manufacturer. I am confident that the new plans we have in place for next year’s show will drive new visitors to the event, introducing them to the Sunseeker brand amongst others.”

“Over the coming weeks, we look forward to confirming the attendance of a number of other key brands at the 2018 show and look to unveil more state-of-the-art attractions and concepts for next year’s event,” he added.

1 June 

British Marine have announced the third show to compliment the London Boat Show and the brand-new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show, Bespoke London.

The third show has been created to target the higher-end of the boating world.

Bespoke London will create a completely immersive experience for the visitor which will compliment the annual London Boat Show. Exhibitors will bring ‘behind-the-rope’ experiences to offer a bespoke consumer journey.

Murray Ellis, Chief Officer of Boat Shows at British Marine, comments: “Bespoke London is a big part of our re-imagination of the London Boat Show. The city’s global transport links and world-renowned business heart makes it a hive for ultra-high net worth individuals. We look to tap into this audience by curating a truly unique Show with tailor-picked high-end brands offering indulgent experiences.

“This third Show will complement the exciting news plans we are putting together to enhance the heart of the London Boat Show, as well as the new innovative Boating & Watersports Holiday Show.”

The London Boat Show, Bespoke London and the Boating and Watersports Holiday Show will take place 10 – 14 January 2018.

25 May

British Marine Boat Shows has unveiled the first attraction for the new Boating and Watersports Holiday Show 2018.

At the show’s centre will be an interactive area focusing on recreating part of the UK’s inland waterways whilst demonstrating the variety of overseas and UK holidays available.

Surrounding the attraction will be a number of brands showcasing the best of the inland sector including Richardson’s and under the British Marine Inland Boating banner, Fox Boats, Kris Cruisers, Napton Narrowboats and ABC Boat Hire.

Visitors will be able to climb aboard a narrowboat to explore the ultimate in sleek design, speak with experts about the best locations and ideal boats to suit their needs or ponder their next cruising holiday as they relax in the show’s very own pub, The Lock Keeper’s Inn.

This is the first concept to be revealed for the new show, which will be running alongside the now five-day London Boat Show, which will run from 10-14 January 2018.

A new, third show, is expected to be announced shortly.

 

30 March

Changes have been unveiled to the 2018 edition of the London Boat Show.

Organiser, British Marine Boat Shows, has now made the event just five days rather than the usual 10 days.

It will also be held further away from the Christmas and New Year period, running from Wednesday, 10 January 2018 until Sunday, 14 January 2018.

British Marine said the changes were made following feedback from visitors and exhibitors, but promised the show would still “draw on its rich heritage” and offer “a wealth of business and networking opportunities as well as quality visitors”.

“The re-imagined event will be packed with unique attractions and new shows within the show, introducing the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and another exciting event to be announced soon,” it added.

Featuring global and boutique brands, the new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show plans to take advantage of the prime holiday booking period.

Complete with its own high profile marketing campaign,  the event will offer knowledge, expert advice and live experiences to get visitors into the holiday spirit.

The chief officer of Boat Shows at British Marine, Murray Ellis, said: “Having gathered and listened to feedback from visitors and exhibitors, we knew we needed to make some changes.”

“We are confident that these exciting plans will mean some incredible business opportunities for our exhibitors whilst providing visitors with a fantastic event with new things to see and do at every turn,” he continued.

“The shows will benefit from increased marketing activity, with a focus on promoting the event to a wider audience. The latest digital targeting techniques complemented by traditional broadcast and print media will be used to attract the core boating audience whilst investing in new audiences,” promised Ellis.

He stressed that the boats will still remain the “stars of the show but the London Boat Show will enjoy a new layout, flanked by two new events.”

“Interactive entertainment, themed catering and seating will be throughout the event will be sure to create an exciting and vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy,” concluded Ellis.

 

13 January

The winners of the Marina of the Year Awards have been announced at the London Boat Show.

The winning marinas are voted for by their berth holders in the UK Coastal, UK Inland, International and Superyacht categories.

Largs Yacht Haven named Marina of the Year

This year also saw the launch of the Marina of Distinction accolade, which is presented to a marina with over three consecutive years of continual customer service excellence, as voted for by its customers in the Marina of the Year competition.

To qualify, marinas must rank a category finalist over three consecutive competitions. On the third year, they would automatically receive the title of Marina of Distinction.

Plymouth’s Mayflower Marina took award for UK Coastal Marina of the Year 2017 (over 250 berths).

11 January

HRH Princess Royal visited the London Boat Show with husband Vice Admiral Tim Laurence on 11 January.

The couple met with exhibitors and heard about the success of the British Marine Industry.

UK’s leisure marine industry grows for fifth consecutive year, new figures by British Marine released at the London Boat Show 2017 reveal

As President of the RYA, HRH Princess Royal also presented the RYA Yachtmaster of the Year Award 2016 to Zara Roberts.

9 January 

The London Boat Show was officially opened on Friday, 6 January. Absolutely Fabulous actress Joanna Lumley cut the ribbon at the Sunseeker International stand to launch the British luxury yacht brand’s two new much awaiting vessels, the Manhattan 66 and 68.

The star was visibly excited about launching the two new yachts and spoke of her love of boats and the sea. Being ‘a military brat’ as she referred to herself, (her father, Major James Rutherford Lumley served in the British Army) , Lumley spoke of her childhood days, when she would regularly travel by boat with her family to exotic destinations, including India, her country of birth.

Joanna Lumley drew a large crowd to the Sunseeker stand, where the yacht manufacturer launched their new models, the Sunseeker Manhattan 66 and 68.

Meanwhile, Prestige used the show to launch its new 630 to the UK market.

The 19-metre luxury flybridge motor yacht was on display alongside the Prestige 560 and the Prestige 680, which won a coveted 2016 Motorboat of the Year Award

Sneak peak of the new Prestige 630 at the London Boat Show 2017

Plymouth-based Princess Yachts unveiled its Princess S60 at the show.

The latest model in their S-Class range has a top speed of 38-knots, depending on engine specification.

Pictures: Princess S60 to launch at London Boat Show

Fairline Yachts used the show to launch its 50th anniversary year and to announce its continual growth, with 10 Fairline Yachts sold in the first hour of the London Boat Show.

Managing director Russell Currie told gathered journalists and customers that since January 2016, 75 boats had been sold worldwide.

The company will be building 50 yachts in its anniversary year. He said the firm’s order book was the strongest it had been in six years, and it now employed 227 people.

Strong recovery: Fairline Yachts sells 10 boats in the first hour of the London Boat Show

Currie also announced that a new, smaller version of the popular Targa 43 open would be built in 2017.

The T480 will be unveiled at Cannes in September 2017, and will be launched in Spring 2018.

 

4 January

British actress Joanna Lumley will be the special guest at the Sunseeker International stand at the London Boat Show.

Lumley, who is best known for playing Patsy Stone in the sitcom, Absolutely Fabulous, will be officially opening the company’s stand on 6 January 2017.

Sunseeker’s 40-metre yacht, ‘Thumper’ made a star appearance in the Absolutely Fabulous The Movie, which was released in July 2016.

Lumley’s character Patsy, and co-star Edina, played by Jennifer Saunders, found themselves sipping Champagne on the prestigious luxury yacht in the bay of Cannes.

Britain’s Got Talent Finalists, Jack Pack will also be the company’s special guests.

The contemporary swing pop group had a Top 10 self titled debut album in 2015.

 

All you need to know about the show

 

Over 300 exhibitors will be showcasing the best the marine world has to offer with anticipated debuts to the World and European stage at the London Boat Show 2017.

The event will also offer exciting new attractions including:

• The Show’s Stage: returning due to popular demand, will be the place to enjoy live entertainment with exclusive music performances throughout the 10 days. The Stage will also play host to fashion events, showcasing the latest in boating trends.  Visitors can expect to see Sky Sports Presenter, Alec Wilkinson, hosting regular features from personalities sharing their inspiring stories and expert knowledge through to interactive talks and panel shows.

• The new Dream Lodge Marina & Boating Lake offers an idyllic setting to see beautiful yachts moored in the marina as well as offering fantastic places to eat and drink.

• Positioned adjacent to the Dream Lodge Marina, is the Watersports Park. Providing activity both on the water and land, this interactive area offers visitors the chance to try out and see some of the latest watersports trends.

Murray Ellis, Managing Director at British Marine Boat Shows, says: “We already have a number of leading global brands as well as world product launches confirmed for January’s 63rd London Boat Show, with more exhibitors signing up every day. With some great attractions including the Show’s Stage, providing live entertainment,and the pool area where visitors can have a go at a number of on-the-water activities, this year’s show is set to be yet another exciting event.”

The London Boat Show 2017 takes place from Friday 6 January to Sunday 15 January 2017 at the ExCeL, London.

Advance tickets start from £10, with two children under the age of 15 going free with each adult. Additional concessions are also available.

For further information and to buy tickets visit: www.londonboatshow.com.

 

3 January 

The 2017 London Boat Show will be the 63rd edition of the event and will see close to 400 boats on display.

More than 45 new exhibitors will also be taking part including Borrow a Boat, Chatham Marine Ltd, Northman Shipyard, Pantaenius UK Ltd, RAND Boats Aps, Teignbridge Propellers International Ltd, Urban Truant, Westaway Sails Ltd and Westwater Yacht Sales Ltd.

Top 10 largest boats at the London Boat Show

The largest boat at the show will be the Sunseeker 95 Yacht.

Others making the top 10 include:

• Sunseeker 86 Yacht

• Princess 75 Motor Yacht

• Sunseeker 75 Yacht

• Sunseeker Manhattan 66

• Sunseeker 68 Sport Yacht

• Prestige 680

• Princess S60

• Princess 60

• Sunseeker Predator 57

More than 80 debut boats and products have been confirmed for 2017 London Boat Show – 14 world, 2 European, 40 UK and 28 show.

This includes world launches of:

• Sunseeker 68 Sport Yacht

• Bavaria R40 Coupe

• Cobra 7.2

• Cobra 9.5

• Excel Virago Yacht Tenders

• Grandezza 25 S

• Sunseeker Manhattan 66

• Princess S60

• Spearfish 15 Inflatable Moto Canoe

• Sailing Holiday’s new range of routes for flotilla sailing holidays

• Nautilus Yachting’s new flotilla holidays in Croatia

• Houdini Marine Windows’ Electrically Opening Hinged Direct Bonded Window

• Fischer Panda 4000s Neo

• FlexiSail’s New Ownership Proposition Programme

• Teignbridge Propellers’ Rapid Replacement Propeller Service

 

10 interesting facts about London Boat Show

1. The price of admission to the original London Boat Show was 2/6d which is the equivalent to 12.5p.

2. There were 133 exhibitors at the first London Boat Show, versus close to 350 today.

3. RYA, Jeckell & Son Ltd, Inland Waterways Association, Navigators & General and Motor Boat & Yachting have all exhibited at every London Boat Show.

4. The first London Boat Show was held at Olympia, before moving to the Earls Court Exhibition Centre in 1957 due to an increase in demand and then to ExCeL London in 2004 as the venue could no longer accommodate the vast selection of boats and equipment suppliers.

5. Since the London Boat Show moved to ExCeL London it has grown by a quarter of a mile to occupy the whole of the venue’s South Hall, a space the size of six full-sized football pitches.

6. The first London Boat Show was a nine day event running from Thursday 30 December 1954 to Saturday 8 January 1955. It was shut on Sunday due to the old Sunday Trading Laws.

7. The London Boat Show has welcomed an array of personalities; from sailing legends such as Sir Ben Ainslie and Dame Ellen MacArthur to superstars like the Beatles who opened the show in 1965. British royalty including Prince Philip and HRH The Princess Royal have also appeared at the event, as well as Margaret Thatcher, who opened the London Boat Show riding in a bosun’s chair a few months before her election to Prime Minister in 1979.

8. When the first show was launched in 1954, it was sponsored by the Daily Express. No money changed hands. The newspaper simply guaranteed the first £2,000 of any losses, but with 120,850 visitors, the newspaper was able to share a small percentage of the profits. The partnership carried on until 1988.

9. On average, the biggest boats at the first shows measured just 39ft, versus the largest boat that has ever been on display at a London Boat Show, the Sunseeker 131 Yacht measuring over 131ft.

10. The London Boat Show hosted the Indoor Windsurfing Championships, an event which had never been held in the UK before.

 

14 December

The London Boat Show is not just about big brands unveiling their new launches.

This year, a family-run Norfolk boat company will also be showcasing their unique range of craft.

Dad’s Boats produces a range of pedal boats, as well as handmade wooden propellers.

It is based on the original vessel, which was built by David Williams in the 1950s.

His first pedal boat was a single seater and was designed as a way of following his remote controlled yacht while keeping his hands free for the controls: the drive mechanism was an old hand drill!

The Sieve, as it was affectionately called, was moth balled in the garden when Williams had to do National Service.

By the time he returned home two years later, it had deteriorated so badly that it was used as firewood.

Rather than giving up, Williams decided to build a more sociable two-seater boat, Cyclone, which he took on his honeymoon around the Norfolk Broads.

He has even paddled it around the Isle of Wight.

Williams went on to make two other designs -Cyclamen – built in the 1980s, and Lifecycle.

Since 2012, Dad’s Boats, which is run by Williams’ daughter and son-in-law, has been developing and testing a commercial model based on Cyclone.

Simply called The Pedal Boat, it will be exhibited at the London Boat Show 2016.

 

8 December

Sunseeker International has announced it will be launching its new 68 Sport Yacht at the London Boat Show next month.

With sleek exterior lines, the 68 has a sporty look which is enhanced by new hull glazing, which also gives it a more contemporary look.

It comes packed with new features including powered glass doors between the cockpit and the saloon which can be lowered away to create one entertaining space.

The cleverly engineered mechanism allows the door to open conventionally, but also lower itself away into the sole of the yacht providing a truly uninterrupted open space.

Inside, the main saloon has received numerous enhancements through both new designs to furniture and subtle but highly effective detailing.

As expected from Sunseeker, the 68 comes with state-of-the-art entertainment systems, high quality fabrics and plenty of natural light.

Down below, six guests can be accommodated in a three cabin layout, with an additional crew cabin for two.

The galley is also located below creating even more entertaining space in the main saloon.

On the lower deck, the full beam master stateroom includes an en-suite and walk-in wardrobe.

When it comes to performance, the new 68 Sport Yacht doesn’t disappoint with speeds of up to 38 knots depending on the engine configuration chosen.

The flybridge has been designed with both entertaining and relaxation in mind with extensive U-shaped seating, a large sunbathing area and well-equipped wet-bar.

The new 68 Sport Yacht is one of four new model launches planned for 2017 on top of the five new models the Dorset based company introduced during 2016.

Sales director at Sunseeker International, Sean Robertson, said: “We’re really looking forward to launching the new 68 Sport Yacht at the London Boat Show 2017. The model originally took graceful styling and executive-class accommodation to the next level when she was first introduced and has been extremely popular with our customers.”

“This new yacht has been designed for customers who demand the very best performance, matched with stunning living spaces. We’re confident she will become a very popular addition to our line up,” he stressed.

The 68 Sport Yacht will have its world premier at the London Boat Show alongside the new Manhattan 66.

Sunseeker International has just released an exclusive CGI animation video of the Manhattan 66, giving customers the first opportunity to see the vessel in action.

The model boasts a new deep V hull design and newly configured flybridge, and has already received significant interest and sales orders ahead of her launch.

 

16 November

Sunseeker International has announced it will launch the new Manhattan 66 at the 2017 London Boat Show in January.

It follows the success of the Manhattan 52 which, to date, has secured £30 million worth of retail sales for the firm since its introduction in the autumn.

Sunseeker says its new model signals the boat builder’s intentions to “maintain its strong position in this critical segment of the market, and underlines its commitment to producing an unrivalled portfolio of luxury performance motor yachts from 50-155 feet.”

The Manhattan 66 has a panoramic hull and saloon windows, making the living spaces light and airy. It has been designed with a brand, new deep V hull and open-plan layout, which provides plenty of room.

Throughout the main deck there is a strong focus on sociable spaces, with Portuguese-bridge bow seating, sunbathing areas and an expansive cockpit adjoining a well-equipped aft galley and saloon on the main deck.

Optionally, the galley can be specified below, creating even more entertaining space in the main saloon.

The newly configured flybridge has extensive seating throughout, large sunbathing areas forward and a well-equipped wet-bar.

It also comes with a wide bathing platform (capable of launching a Williams 385 Jet RIB) and transom ‘beach club’ where an optional barbecue, fold-away bench seat and overhead ‘rain- shower’ truly set the Manhattan 66 apart.

The twin berth crew cabin, with private access through the transom, enjoys a dedicated en suite and ample stowage.

With the galley on the main deck, there is room for four very spacious cabins below including two large twin cabins, a forward VIP suite and standout full-beam master cabin with its own private stairway access from the saloon.

This is a first for Sunseeker in this size range.

Powered by twin MAN 1000hp/1200hp engines on shaft drive or Volvo Penta IPS-1200, the Manhattan 66 can cruise comfortably at 25 knots, with a top speed of 34 knots.

Sales director at Sunseeker International, Sean Robertson, said the company is looking forward to launching the all new Manhattan 66 “which is already generating substantial interest.”

“Following the success of the Manhattan 52 which was the first in a series of new Manhattan models, it underlines our ability to keep giving our customers the best in class across every segment we operate in,” he said.

The London Boat Show will take place between 6-15 January, 2017.

15 November

Ancasta has announced that it will be presenting the UK debut of the Prestige 630 at the 2017 London Boat Show.

The Prestige 630 features a Garroni designed interior, with one level living and the galley set to the aft of the boat.

It also boasts luxurious furnishings as well as three cabins, all with their own ensuite, and there is an additional cabin for crew.

The galley offers a bar style opening on to the cockpit, while the huge flybridge provides an ideal space for relaxing in comfort.

Powered by twin Volvo IPS950 engines, the Prestige 630 is capable of cruising at 24-knots.

It also comes with high tech design solutions combined with the selection of the IPS950 pod transmission engines.

Also at the Ancasta stand at the London Boat Show will be the Beneteau Sense 57, the big sister of the new Sense 51 which premieres in Paris in December.

The Sense 57 is described as “an ocean cruising yacht with a unique style.”

Features include an exterior galley with plancha and sink concealed in the helm seats, large hull portholes to give an extensive sea view and flood the interior with light, and an opening semi-hard top bimini.

Other highlights from Ancasta’s new boat brands at London Boat Show 2017 include the Prestige 560 and Prestige 680, which has proved popular since its debut at London Boat Show in 2016, the Beneteau Gran Turismo 40 and Swift Trawler 30 and 44.

On the sail side, Ancasta is also presenting the Beneteau Oceanis 38.1, 41.1 and 45.

The London Boat Show 2017 takes place from Friday 6 January to Sunday 15 January 2017 at the ExCeL, London.

Watch 60 years of the London Boat Show