Southampton Boat Show 2022
The boat show to go?
This is the UK’s largest show set in the docks of Southampton with the glorious backdrop from large container ships and cruise ships roaming in and out of the solent.
This year was the passing of Queen Elizabeth ii, may we always remember.
Arriving at the show, we are scanned in and straight into the water sports section, this year a lot of paddle boards for sale with the growing market of this great/relaxing sport.
Here you could also buy ropes, polish, and furniture for your yacht all kinds of things, but not too much in the way of powerboat accessories.
Over the foot bridge we admit to not seeing much of the second sector as it was sailing only, as you know we use powerboats, jet skis and ribs.
We will always say yes to an invite on a yacht btw, just incase you wondered.
into the show grounds proper as we like to call it, this is a busy space with lots to see, with all sorts of boats, trailers and jet-skis.
Our first port of call was All Salt, these are the makers of suspension seating with a diverse range to look at on the stand.
Talking to the guys we soon found out they were fans of Challenge Britain due to our Halmatic Ribs and Land Rover Defenders, putting a smile on everyones faces.
Who thinks we should install two suspension seats to the boat build???
Icom next, with there small compact trailer stand, looking at AIS systems for both boats, and also repairs to faulty radios, of which Icom’s customer service is fantastic.
At the show there wasn’t that much in the way of chandlery or clothing compared to years before, however one store was there selling Crewsaver Life Jackets ErgoFit 190, so of course we made a purchase as we know these are comfortable and durable for what we have coming up.
Inside we came across Raymarine, as you know we use their systems and are always happy to promote them.
The guys on the stand were discussing our challenges and intentions and we really felt welcome and part of the Raymarine family which is very special to us.
Just opposite we also spoke to Navionics and there brand new GPS mapping, with high detailed charts, adding these to your Chart Plotters really do help with the user experience.
Now on the the big one, Suzuki, we have a Suzuki 300hp on order and have done so for the past 3-4months, however due to the pandemic, supplies are low as with all industries and we just don’t have a real time frame but there is no harm asking questions.
The guys kindly provided us with a coffee and helped to find out any information and GOOD NEWS!!!!! There may be possibility of a Christmas delivery, this would suit our current time frame perfectly, our fingers are crossed and thank you to the guys at Suzuki for the information and care on the day.
So now it was time to enjoy more of the show taking in the new and the old out in the Marina.
Fantastic yachts and cruisers on display, with plenty of ribs and day boats to see including demonstrations and rides on the solent.
All in all a fantastic show, however there could have been more in accessories/chandlery, however most stores are online and are offering boat show discounts.
Of course we were filming the day and a new video will be up on Youtube this week.
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Thank you Greg Butler and special thanks to the companies helping us to build our rib and supporting us on our adventures.
