Your insider’s guide to the Southampton Boat Show 2025
As a seasoned sailor with decades of experience working in the marine insurance industry, John Tuckwell has been a regular visitor to the Southampton Boat Show for over 20 years. It us a regular fixture in his calendar, so who better to share their top tips.
by John Tuckwell, Business Development Manager
As a seasoned sailor with decades of experience working in the marine insurance industry, I’ve been a regular visitor to the Southampton Boat Show for over 20 years. It has definitely become a regular fixture in my calendar, not just because I can conveniently access so many marine businesses in one place, but because of the vibrant atmosphere and familiar faces I reconnect with year-on-year.
There’s certainly a unique energy to the show that keeps bringing me back, offering a reminder of the joys of connecting with others who share a passion for life on the water. Over the years, I’ve seen the show grow and evolve, and I’m pleased to hear that this year’s event will be prioritising its roots, with a more focused emphasis on boat-related businesses. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the marine community in all its variety, while still enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that makes the show so special. In this blog, I wanted to share my experience of past events and what I’ve learnt over the years to help you make the most of this year’s show.
Prepare for all weathers
One thing that stands out about the Southampton Boat Show is its location – a purpose-built marina on Solent Waters. This outdoor setting means that as the day goes on, you get the opportunity to see the vessels up close, both in and out of the water. It’s not just about browsing stalls: it’s a full experience with live talks, entertainment and activities for the kids.
What this does mean, though, is that you’re at the mercy of the British weather! Make sure you wear layers, don’t forget your raincoat and umbrella, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be on your feet most of the day, so leave the flip flops at home and go for something solid and comfortable. Trust me…nothing ruins a good day faster than wet socks or blistered heels.
Have a plan of action
To get the most out of your day, I always find it helpful to have a rough plan in mind. The show’s big (and growing!) so knowing which areas you want to explore and who you want to speak to can make a big difference. If there’s a particular brand or exhibitor you’re keen to see, map them out in your route. Even if you’re just there to soak up the atmosphere, it’s worth browsing the list of exhibitors beforehand to see who’s going. You might just spot someone you don’t want to miss.
With that being said, make sure to give yourself time to wander. Take a moment to browse the smaller stalls and brands you’re not familiar with, or those you’ve only seen online. There’s something to be said for seeing things in person before you buy. One of my favourite finds was a pair of sailing shorts from the Rooster stand, designed for added protection while racing. I was able to try them on, speak to the team about the technical performance, compare options and decide there and then. It’s that kind of hands-on experience you just don’t get when shopping online.
The pontoons are also a great place to explore boats in their natural environment. There’s just something different about seeing them in the water rather than perched on a stand. And don’t forget to make time for a drink (or two) at the famous Guinness stand! It’s practically a tradition at this point…
Talk to people
Make sure to strike up conversations with people you meet at the show – those unplanned chats often lead to the most surprising of discoveries. Whether it’s a fellow boat owner sharing a hidden mooring spot, a broker who can help you get more effective cover, or someone demoing a clever bit of kit, the show is full of opportunities to discover something new. The marine community is a passionate one, and most people are more than happy to talk about what they do, what they sail, or what they’ve just bought. Some of my most useful tips – and best stories – have come from these exchanges.
Stick around
While many people visit the show for a couple of hours just to get a flavour of the event, there’s plenty more to experience if you stick around for the full day (or more than one!). Some of my favourite memories of the show involve seeing the cruise liners sail past the pontoons as the sun sets over the Solent’s waters. It’s a great reminder about what we’re all there for, a passion for being out on the water.
My golden piece of advice?
Just take the time to enjoy it and immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Don’t rush. Whether you sail competitively, just for fun or even if you’ve never sailed before – there really is something for everyone. It’s a wonderful community, enjoy it.
John Tuckwell, Business Development Manager
John Tuckwell is the Business Development Manager for Navigators & General and has been passionate about sailing since he was 10 years old. When he launched his own brokerage, he was also actively involved in running the Dart 18 Class Association, which was one of the largest in the UK at the time. That connection naturally led to a growing number of marine insurance enquiries. He quickly developed a specialism in catamarans, and the account expanded significantly. He places a particular emphasis on forming strong relationships and delivering for his clients which has formed the basis of his successful career to date.