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The Southampton International Boat Show is back with a bang this September 2025 with a whole new layout. The refreshed, upgraded festival returns for 10 days of fun on the water with new attractions and exhibitors for all to enjoy.
Marine enthusiasts or new to the show, there’s something for everyone this year at the boating event in Southampton. A non-stop line-up of water performances, boat attractions and live music are all on the agenda this year. Southampton Boat Show is one of the UK’s favourite festivals and a ‘destination of discovery’ so make sure this festival is on your radar this year.
When and where is the Southampton International Boat Show?
Southampton International Boat show takes place this September 2025 from the 19th to 28th at Merchants Walk Southampton, SO14 2AS. The entrance this year can be found at Mayflower Park, a short walk from nearby bus and train stations. The opening times are from 10am till 5pm Friday 19th to Saturday 27th, and 9:30am to 4:30pm on Sunday 28th September. You can find tickets to the Southampton Boat Show here with ticket prices ranging from general admission at £23 to premium tickets from £165 each.
How do I get to the festival in Southampton?
Travelling by train
Located close to Southampton Central Train Station and Southampton’s main bus station, the festival is easily accessible from all surrounding areas.
Southampton Central is one of the most accessible stations on the South Western Railway network and you can travel direct to Southampton from London on the London Waterloo line in approx. 1 hour 25 minutes with regular trains available.
If you’re travelling from further west of the country, you can catch the train from Bournemouth to Southampton Central in less than 30 minutes. Or if slightly further afield, you can travel from Weymouth to Southampton Central, direct with SWR in approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
Explore our full range of ticket types to find the right one for your journey. You can find cheap train tickets by booking early or going off-peak, and if you have a Railcard or if you’re travelling in a group, you could save even more.
Things to see and do at Southampton Boat Show
Get ready for an exhilarating 10-day adventure at the largest celebration of boating and water sports in the UK. Find out what’s on at the event this year.
Water Activities
You can take part in the action and get yourself into or on the water with a range of exhilarating water activities taking place at the lake. No matter what you decide to do, your equipment is provided and expert support available. There are fun activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and even dinghy sailing sessions you can take part in. A visitor favourite at the festival is the Try-a-Boat activity. Allowing you to enjoy the day from the water. This boating experience is included in your show ticket so make sure to check it out. There are also water shows with jet ski stunts and more to watch for those who are seeking fast-paced entertainment.
Entertainment
Live music is planned daily throughout the 10-day festival. You can catch DJ and radio presenter Scott Mills, along with other iconic tribute shows like Elton John and Queen tributes. You can find the 2025 line-up here. With a cool, festival atmosphere grab some food and a drink and enjoy the music after a fun filled day on the water.
The Marina
One of the Boat Show’s highlights - make sure you get down to the marina to discover over 300 boats on display from sailing yachts to motorboats. Marvel at the magnificent display and if you’re looking for a specific boat style there will be clearly defined zones making it easy to explore. This year’s display includes the Thunder Child 2 which currently holds 6 world records, you don’t want to miss this experience.
Things to do in Southampton
During your visit to Southampton why not discover what else this modern metropolis has to offer. Southampton is well-connected by all transports, especially by train and is jam packed with shopping malls, theatres, music venues and great places to eat and drink.
Some top attractions in Southampton include major entertainment venues like the Mayflower Theatre, 02 Guildhall and the City Art Gallery, making Southampton a cultural hub where you can enjoy shows and concerts alike.
In the mood for some shopping? Above Bar street is where you will find the shopping quarter. Nearby, there is also Westquay shopping destination with over 100 stores to choose from.
In Southampton you will also find the New Forest, just a short 13-minute train ride with SWR and you will get to Brockenhurst. Explore the glorious scenery around you during your stay in Southampton.
Where to stay in Southampton?
All the major hotel chains can be found in Southampton, along with smaller boutique hotels catering to all budgets.
The Blue Keys is a family-run hotel just outside the city centre which provides a relaxing atmosphere to visitors.
There is also the charming Pig in the Wall townhouse, offering accommodation and a pub full of character to enjoy a drink in.
Looking for more information about destinations in the Southwest? Discover SWR’s destination guides.
Don’t forget to check out SWR Rewards for money off activities, food, and drink deals.
Southampton Boat Show accessibility
The Southampton International Boat Show works to create an event that is as accessible as possible so everyone can enjoy their time at the festival. For those visitors who are registered disabled, there is a reduced admission price. Disabled parking is available, along with disabled toilets. There's also the possibility to hire manual wheelchairs if needed on site. These are available on first come, first serve basis and are not guaranteed. You will find more detailed information on the Southampton Boat Show accessibility policy here.
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