Despite near Hurricane winds the Sandbanks Boat Show sparkles success for the 4th year running!
Visitors were not disappointed when visiting the Sandbanks Boat Show on the 10th & 11th May. A stunning line up of over 70 new boats were on display for Dorset’s largest boat show. Amongst the mix were the ‘Best of British’ manufactured boats including the high-end motor yachts from Broom, Cockwells, Fairline, Princess and from Poole’s home turf Sunseeker.
The Sealegs amphibious rib grabbed much attention. This incredible all-terrain vehicle with its motorised, retractable and steerable wheels changes into a high-speed, ocean going craft – all at the push of a button. Even baby Prince George has one (admit child version, presented by Sealegs on the recent royal tour in New Zealand).
This show is firmly an established event on the boating calendar bringing an extensive and unprecedented mix of sports cruisers, high performance craft, fishing boats, ribs and jet skis.
Our trusty RNLI was in attendance, hosting a free lifejacket clinic and giving vital safety advice. There was an opportunity to ‘win a berth’, courtesy of Salterns Marina, worth up to £13,000.
The film crew for the new series of Ben Fogle’s ITV programme, Harbour Lives, were on site too filming the weekend’s activity and action and using the opportunity to meet boat owners, buyers and people in the trade and capturing how important boating is to the area’s economy.
Jon Eads, Director of the Salterns Group said, “We are really delighted with the success that the Sandbanks Boat Show has enjoyed this weekend. We’ve had an excellent, steady footfall of visitors. I understand from many of the exhibitors that boats and equipment have been sold and that a significant number of good enquiries have been received. It’s certainly been a great weekend for visitors and exhibitors alike.”
Jon continued, “Boat shows are hugely important to the leisure marine industry and the smaller regional events such as ours definitely compliment the larger national boat shows held in January and September each year. For this show we are incredibly fortunate to be located in Poole Harbour which is without doubt one of the best boating locations on the South Coast. “
Jon reflected on recent years and said, “The Marine industry has suffered over the last 5 years but this year we are seeing much more positivity returning and confidence is certainly growing. People want to be on the water.”
“I would like to thank all our supporters including the Poole based company, Coleman Insurance Brokers who kindly sponsored our exhibitors BBQ and drinks reception on Saturday evening. It was a fantastic end to day one of our event and an excellent way for our exhibitors to network with colleagues in the industry.”
Salterns Marina and Brokerage have worked hard over the last 4 years establishing an outstanding ‘boutique’ boat show, the format of which other marinas are now following. By offering a two day event which is free admission, works well for both exhibitors and visitors alike. Salterns Marina is the ideal venue for such a show and we look forward to a busy season ahead.
