First European boat show of 2016 draws to a close

The 62nd London Boat Show has drawn to a close, with over 90,000 people attending the show at the ExCel arena.

Over 132 boats debuted at the 10-day event, including the 40m Sunseeker 131, the largest yacht ever to globally launch at the show.

Sean Roberston, sales director at Sunseeker commented, “This has been our most successful London Boat Show for a number of years, with confirmed boat orders worth £40m of retail sales (exc. tax) and several more sales in the pipeline.  It’s very good news for the sector because it’s the first show of the year and it is an excellent barometer of sales to come in 2016.”

Many companies reported strong sales from the show, with an increase on last year’s numbers and a number of multi-million pound deals. Overall, nearly 400 boats were on display during the event, and a number of new brands exhibited for the first time, including Adidas Sailing and Bainbridge International.

Lucy Watson, sailing enthusiast and star of reality TV series Made in Chelsea, opened the show, and there were also a number of other celebrity appearances across the 10 days, including actor Hugh Bonneville and presenter Adrian Chiles.

A host of leading boating experts made appearances in the show’s theatre. Sailing presenter Alec Wilkinson, hosted daily panel discussions on the latest in marine technology and industry innovations, with a range of guests including America’s Cup commentator Tucker Thompson, and Olympic sailor Sir Ben Ainslie.

There were also a number of award ceremonies held, including the Superyacht UK Young Designer Award, won by Coventry University student, Dastinas Steponenas.

Murray Ellis, managing director at British Marine Boat Shows, commented, “The quality of business achieved coupled with the fantastic attractions on offer and celebrity faces seen, has resulted in the 62nd London Boat Show being yet another successful show.

“At the heart of one of the world’s most pioneering capital cities, we have showcased the rich heritage of both British and international boating, and the latest marine innovations and designs, to a global audience.

Exhibitors have reported excellent sales this year, with visitors having the opportunity to purchase from a variety of products from inflatable stand-up paddleboards and foldaway sailing boats to a multi-million pound superyacht and everything in between.

The atmosphere has been exuberant, once again confirming the London Boat Show as one of the top ten boat shows in the world.”

For more information, visit the British Marine Federation.

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