A SHOWCASE of all things boats will come to the city next month.

Boats 2020 has been announced for Mayflower Park, Southampton, from September 11 to 20, presented by Southampton International Boat Show Ltd.

British Marine has worked with Southampton City Council, exhibitors and event stakeholders to find a way to deliver the event on behalf of the industry and to support its members.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said; “British Marine has remained absolutely committed to supporting the industry through the provision of an event this year.

“The staging of Boats 2020 presented by Southampton International Boat Show Ltd would not have been possible without the support of Southampton City Council and I am delighted that we have been able to make this happen, at a time when so many other events have been cancelled.

“This not-for-profit event will offer boat buyers and the leisure marine industry a chance to come together with the reassurance that the event is within government guidelines.

“Visitors will see a super range of sailing and power boats, and the event format with opportunities to book appointments on boats will create a day of quality viewing for visitors.”

The event is aimed at the “serious boat buyer and enthusiast”, who is keen to see and buy the latest models and equipment available.

To date 78 boats from 30 brands, including Princess Yachts, will be located in the purpose-built marina, alongside over 40 land-based exhibitors of related marine equipment.

Colin Capewell, Princess Motor Yachts Sales managing director, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the show is going ahead after such a difficult time for everyone. While we will be doing this in a socially distanced way, the team from Princess will all be there with a very warm welcome. We are promising a really exciting line-up, and this could be the only chance visitors will get, to see these beautiful yachts in one place this year! I know the British Marine team have worked tirelessly to ensure Boats 2020 can take place safely, and we can’t thank them enough!”

Work has been carried out with the city council to stage the event and ensure it meets Public Health England COVID-19 secure requirements. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) have also confirmed that the event plans fall within current Government guidance.

Councillor Satvir Kaur, cabinet member culture, said: “Southampton is known for its packed calendar of events, but the current circumstances mean we’ve had to rethink how we can present popular features like the Boat Show safely for exhibitors and visitors. It’s important as a city we start to work towards economic recovery and support sectors such as marine in Southampton.”

Tickets are limited and are expected to be booked up quickly. Anyone looking to attend Boats 2020 can register their interest at southamptonboatshow.com.