Southampton Boat Show 2023: Everything you need to know

Britain’s biggest boating event, the Southampton Boat Show takes place every September in Mayflower Park and on a purpose-built marina. The 2023 event is due to run from September 15-24.

What’s new at the 2023 Southampton Boat Show?

The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake, brought to you by Haven Knox-Johnston, will provide showgoers with an opportunity to try their hand at a whole host of different watersports as well as chill out on the city centre’s only sandy beach.

Situated front and centre at the show’s entrance, The Beach Haven & Watersports Lake can be found within the dedicated Watersports Zone, crammed full of all the latest entry-level watersports gear and equipment.

You can take a relaxed paddle across the lake on a paddleboard, or test yourself in a canoe race against an Olympian. Other options include model boating and paddleboard yoga.

To get an idea of how the show will look, you can download the official Southampton Boat Show map (5.3MB PDF).

Where to stay during the Southampton Boat Show

Southampton has a large selection of different types of accommodation. From fully-catered hotels to more affordable inns and apartments, there is something for every pocket. Just make sure you book in advance as the city gets very busy during the boat show.

Read our guide of where to stay near the Southampton Boat Show