London International Boat Show ‘09 : Five-5

10 January 2009 No Comment

The London International Boat Show has opened, celebrating 55 years of bringing the best of boating to UK’s capital.

With top end boat agents including Fairline and Sunseeker dominating the show with multi-million pound size and grandeur, the event is as important for the many smaller business selling boating equipment, clothing, technology, fittings and brokerage services.

For the east of England it is a key date in the business calendar. The region is Britain’s second largest producer of boats and a significant employer, so the success of the boat show could predict the shape of the coming year for many businesses and individuals.

And with the economic gloom of the recent months hitting some of the big names in the boating world in the shape of redundancies and falling sales, the next few days will be key.

Norfolk and Suffolk are well represented at the show as always, both with notable returnees and regulars showing their faces.

There was glamour in the shape of actress, model and television presenter Kelly Brook, who officially opened the show at 11am.

AT THE SHOW

Visitors will be able to explore hundreds of boats in the massive ExCel venue, from multi-million-pound cruisers to one-man lasers and inflatable dinghies. Show organisers are aiming to get as many people on the water as possible, meaning anyone can climb aboard to experience any of the boats on display and chat to specialist experts ready to take questions.

Once again, hundreds of exhibitors will be providing holidays and showing off their wares, such as clothing, equipment, electronics and more. Visitors will be among the first to see and experience a number of new boats and products launched at the show. There will also be non-commercial exhibitors on hand to offer impartial advice to the first time boater or anyone eager to take up the hobby.

Inside the centre, a 35m long main stage will play host to a continuous schedule of entertainment, fashion shows and seminars throughout each day. There will also be the chance to see some famous faces from the boating world, with Dame Ellen MacArthur, Sir Keith Mills, Geoff Holt, Katie Miller, and Adrian Flanagan all booked to attend.

However, if you fancy getting some fresh air some of the largest exhibitor boats in production will be displayed in the Royal Victoria Dock, London’s biggest show marina. This year the magnificent, newly-restored Cutty Sark will also be on display.

The London Boat Show promises to entertain the whole family, so children wont be stuck for something to do either with a range of deck games on offer that are both fun and educational. For those who are particularly skilled there will even be the opportunity to win prizes!

Then as the day draws to a close, be sure to rest your tired feet and relax in the Black & White Bar, the popular Sunseeker Champagne Bar or the Show’s own restaurant.

HIGHLIGHTS

Test your marine skills against friends and family with Deck Games our interactive zone, featuring rowing competitions and model boating and canoeing or speak to one of our experts from the Amateur Rowing Association and find out some more information from them on how to get involved in the oldest and most diverse sports in the world. This year the feature will return with a splash of difference, literally! Be sure not to miss the brand new indoor pool.

Climb onboard the Royal Navy Frigate, HMS Westminster moored outside on the show’s spectacular marina or be amazed by the largest exhibitor boats in production. Check out manufacturers from the Inland sector, who will be showcasing both narrow and wide-beam boats at the west end of the dock or be entertained by our variety of ON-WATER ACTIVITY.

Whilst in the North Hall, the Main Stage powered by Fairline will return to the 2009 show providing you with an arena for you to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy some great entertainment.

Get involved at MIDDAY with Seaskool, in association with the Maritime Coastguard Agency, our new educational slot teaching you how to enjoy and get into boating.

Be dazzled with the ‘underwater’ show ‘A Mermaid’s Tale’, an aerial display, extreme acrobatics, dance and music, or check out our marine inspired catwalk collections. To add a touch of sparkle to the show, luxury swimwear and evening brands will also be showcased!

If you are more of the creative type then take in the winning designs from ‘Design a Sail’, creating a wave of colour with Topper or our ‘Photographic Competition’ in association with ‘All at Sea’.

This year If that does not capture your imagination then watch, learn and most importantly, talk to enthusiast at our Classic Boat feature about traditional skills involved in their restoration, with Cutty Sark Restoration project this year taking centre stage.

Whilst in the South Hall, make sure that you speak to one of our experts at the NEW Suzuki Indoor Harbour. Check out the numerous sports boats, RIBS and fishing boats on display on their new indoor pool.