AAS September 2025

CHANGING COURSE

The Southampton International Boat Show has been reimagined for 2025. Visitors to this much-loved show will discover a refreshed layout, exciting new features and an expanded line-up of

Our 10-page guide to the show starts on page 33.

Embrace connectivity, clarity and control at the helm on a high-resolution touchscreen chartplotter with support for Garmin Navionics+™ cartography. Available in 7”, 9”, 12” and 16” displays. GPSMAP ® X3 SERIES PLOT YOUR PARADISE. FIND YOUR ESCAPE.

UK PORTS CALL FOR ACTION

One hundred years on from the introduction of the first drink-driving laws in the UK, it is still not illegal for someone to be in charge of a yacht while drunk.

On the UK Government’s national Maritime Safety Day, the British Ports Association, the collective voice for the ports industry, renewed its call for policymakers to close the loophole which allows non-professional mariners to sail around the UK while under the influence of alcohol.

While professional mariners are subject to clear alcohol limits under the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003, recreational users remain outside this framework — creating what many in the ports sector warn is a dangerous and outdated loophole.

Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, warned that alcohol use in the recreational marine environment

remains widespread, and that introducing alcohol limits could be readily implemented within the existing legislative framework.

Richard said: “It is simply unacceptable that someone can legally operate a vessel in a dangerous environment while impaired by alcohol. We rightly regulate drink-driving on our roads, but when it comes to our waterways, there is a loophole for recreational boaters. Over the past two decades the government has collected data, understands the issue and knows that introducing the limits is both an easy fix and the right thing to do.

“The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Marine Accident and Investigation Branch both agree that alcohol is a contributing factor in a significant number of leisure boating incidents. It is now down to the Department for Transport to

demonstrate its commitment to maritime safety by correcting this policy anomaly.”

In this renewed push on marine safety, the BPA is calling on the UK Government to introduce prescribed alcohol limits for non-professional

mariners, such as those sailing yachts and personal watercraft users. They say introducing limits would be quite simple, with only a Statutory Instrument required, not primary legislation. The BPA has written to the UK Maritime Minister, Mike Kane MP, a strong advocate of safety, on the issue and offered to help officials draft such a legislative solution.

ASTERIA’S FINAL VOYAGE

The untold story of Asteria’s sinking and Tapio Lehtinen’s rescue in the Golden Globe Race is now available as a short film on YouTube called Asteria’s Final Voyage.

On 18 November 2022, at around 0700hrs Tapio Lehtinen woke to a loud crash from the back of his beloved Asteria. He was 450 miles off the coast of South Africa racing in the solo McIntyre Golden Globe Race around the world. Out of his bunk he stood in knee deep water with more flooding in from under the engine.

Six minutes later, grabbing what he could and donning his survival suit, he lunged into his life raft. Shortly after, he gave his old friend Asteria a final salute, as she slipped silently and surreally stern first below the waves of the Southern Ocean. He was rescued by fellow entrant Kirsten Neuschäfer who went on to win the McIntyre GGR. This rescue was an amazing story and is the subject of ‘Asteria’s Final Voyage’.

To complement the film about Tapio’s rescue, McIntyre Adventure is producing a 16-part short film series of ‘2022 GGR Skipper Stories’, one episode for each entrant. It is available to watch on the Golden Globe Race YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@ Goldengloberace).

Also on the GGR YouTube channel is The Voyage of Madmen film, the story of Don McIntyre’s 50 year anniversary recreation of the infamous race and his quest to attract amateur sailors to compete in small boats, taking on the perils of the sea entirely against the odds.

The fourth edition of the McIntyre GGR begins in a year’s time on 6 September 2026, once again from Les Sables d’Olonne. In the past three editions of the GGR only nine sailors have finished, 43 tried. In 2026, 28 sailors are lining up for the start. goldengloberace.com www.youtube.com/@Goldengloberace

COMMONWEALTH YOUTH GAMES DEBUT

Sailing will be part of the sport programme for the eighth edition of the Commonwealth Youth Games to be held in Malta, marking the first time that sailing has been included.

The sailing competition is due to be held in Mellieħa Bay from 29 October to 4 November 2027 as one of eight sports to be featured at the Games.

David Graham, World Sailing CEO, said: “This is excellent news for the sport of sailing and for young sailors around the world. Being part of the eighth edition of the Commonwealth Youth Games is a tremendous honour and speaks to the growing appeal of the sport. Many of the participating nations have a rich

We are celebrating International Talk Like a Pirate Day this month! PAGE 6

PROTOCOL SIGNED

After sharing a glass of rum with Kirsten,

transferred onto the Bulk Carrier M.V. Darya Gayatri

maritime history, and this offers another incredible opportunity to grow the sport and develop national sailing programmes for the benefit of future generations of young athletes. “We look forward to delivering a successful sailing competition and showing just how exciting sailing is on the world stage.”

Malta 2027 will welcome approximately 1,150 athletes aged 14 - 18 from Commonwealth Sport’s 74 nations and territories. The programme will feature eight sports, with sailing and water polo making their event debut, alongside athletics and para athletics, netball, squash, swimming and para swimming, triathlon and weightlifting.

DOLPHINS INJURED

The Wildlife Trusts are urging water users to take care and follow Government guidelines when around marine wildlife.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust received shocking footage showing multiple injured dolphins. The imagery recorded by crew on the Mevagissey to Fowey ferry in August shows that at least five animals within a pod of dolphins filmed had injured dorsal fins. Three had dorsal fins damaged or bent over and two had them completely severed.

Veterinary pathologist

James Barnett from the Cornwall Marine Pathology team judged that the injuries had most likely come about from impact with high-speed watercraft or propellers.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust has received a number of reports recently of boats going straight towards and even through pods. It is illegal in the UK to

intentionally or recklessly kill, injure or disturb cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Rebecca Allen, Marine Conservation Officer at Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said: “Over the last 10 years we have had increased numbers of common dolphins in our Cornish inshore waters. Whilst this can lead to spectacular encounters for us, it also brings them into our very busy coastal waterways.

“We urge water users to please keep at a sensible speed and follow Government guidelines if they do see marine animals: reduce to a slow ‘no-wake’ speed and keep to a safe distance – at least 100m away.”

Over the past decade, coastal waters in the UK have become significantly busier with recreational boats, a trend that accelerated

dramatically after the Covid-19 pandemic. The increased activity in the water, alongside a notable rise in the number of dolphins around the South West coast, elevates the risk of negative encounters and harm being caused to the animals.

Water users who would like to become more wildlife-friendly can find detailed advice at www.cornwallwildlifetrust. org.uk

Signing of the protocol is “seismic moment for the America’s Cup” PAGE 8 A STUART WRECK

Evidence shows Northumberland wreck is in remarkable condition PAGE 12

EUROPEAN RACE

The Ocean Race Europe concludes in Montenegro this month PAGE 13 ANOTHER PODIUM

The British team are back on the SailGP podium despite a collision PAGE 14

Tapio was

Image: Kirsten Neuschäfer / GGR2022

Thank you for picking up our bumper September issue of All at Sea! Perhaps you are reading the paper for the first time, in which case welcome to the All at Sea crew, and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoy putting it together. The boating world is, after all, a very welcoming community and we love to have new people onboard.

Many of you will have picked up the paper at the Southampton International Boat Show, but we are also available at marinas, sailing clubs, chandleries, marine businesses and many more locations, up and down the country. In fact, if your organisation would like to receive (free) copies of All at Sea every month head over to www.allatsea.co.uk/ getthepaper and fill in our short request form.

If you spot any of the All at Sea team at the Southampton International Boat Show be sure to come over and say hello – we are always happy to talk all things boating! Over on page 33 you will find our guide to the show, from boats and kit to getting on the water and the new show features. It really is a not to be missed event, whether you are a newcomer to boating and watersports or an experienced boater. If you do not have your ticket yet, use discount code AASSIBS2025 to buy a ticket for any day of the show for just £24.

month Amelie has tips for anyone thinking about getting into dinghy sailing. Staying with our younger sailors, we also take a closer look at the work of Supeta Scout Training Yacht over on page 19, and boatfolk's Colin McLean has advice to encourage children into boating.

Back to the boat show, and as you wander around there is a good chance you will see plenty of our furry friends enjoying a day out too, and perhaps you will have yours with you!

On the left is Chewie (Chewbacca on a bad day), the All at Sea dog. Chewie loves the water – on it, in it and by it! In this month’s Pets Afloat special we have great advice from the RNLI about keeping our pets safe when at the coast, along with some of their animal rescue stories. In addition, we have an extended readers’ Pets Afloat – for newcomers to All at Sea, we feature your pets afloat every month, and so send us photos for a future issue (editor@allatsea.co.uk)!

Also in our Pets Afloat Special we have a fantastic feature from the Cruising Association’s Tania Nieveen who shares important advice about travelling abroad with your much-loved pets.

Many of those newcomers I mentioned will be youth sailors. With that in mind we are kicking o a new Youth Sailing series, and as this year we are celebrating 20 years of Onboard, one of the UK’s largest grassroots programmes dedicated to getting children aged 8–18 out on the water for the first time, that seems like a good place to start. Future parts will be looking at training, racing and more.

Racing is something youth sailor Amelie Ballantyne knows all about. A regular in the pages of All at Sea, this

20 years of OnBoard. SUPETA’S

Supeta o ers young people of all backgrounds, abilities and disabilities the chance to experience sailing and living on an ocean going yacht.

boatfolk's Colin McLean has great advice to encourage your children

Lastly, a quick mention for our marina special. We put the spotlight on three marinas this month starting on page 53, plus there is loads of marina news and Changing Face of Marinas all about the brilliant Waterlodges at Yarmouth Harbour. The good news is you could be staying there soon – simply enter our competition over on page 61. Good luck! You can also enter via our newsletter, which you can sign up for at www.allatsea.co.uk/

aasnewsletter

Enjoy the issue, and see you next month!

By Jane Hyde

“SAILING IS A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD – WITH THE OCEAN AN EQUALISER”

On 31 August, 20 sailing professionals left Portsmouth, leading their 10 teams on an 11-month endurance challenge around the world –and 55 per cent of this line-up are women.

The Clipper Race is the only event of its kind which trains people from all walks of life to become ocean racers. And on this record-breaking edition, 11 out of the 20 leaders are women (pictured) – the first time this has been seen in a round the world sailing race.

Each of the 10 teams taking part has an experienced skipper and first mate onboard; four of the 10 skippers are women, along with seven of the first mates. In this summer of women’s sport it is not just women’s football, cricket and rugby breaking records – it is

happening out on the high seas too.

Clipper 2025-26 Race Skipper, Ella Hebron, competed on the previous edition of the global event as a First Mate, so has already completed one circumnavigation.

Ella said: “Sailing is a level playing field – with the ocean an equaliser. It is not going to treat male or female, older or younger people any differently to each other. The relentlessness of the ocean – you cannot manipulate it, it is there to give everyone the same challenges and everyone the same joys.”

Heather Thomas’ journey to Clipper Race Skipper began in 2015 when she was awarded a bursary to join the Clipper 2015-16 Race. Fast forward 10 years and over 100,000nm

sailed, including 12 ocean crossings and leading Maiden to victory in the McIntyre Ocean Globe Race, she is back to take the helm of Team Scotland.

Heather said: “It is a real privilege to lead this team and represent Scotland on a global stage. Although I did not grow up in Scotland, I have spent a lot of time sailing in Scottish waters and have grown to really love the country.”

An appointment as a Skipper and First Mate on the Clipper Race is one of the toughest jobs in sailing. Each will lead teams of non-professionals, making six ocean crossings on the 40,000nm race around the globe. Each team is crewed by up to 22 people – with up to 40 per cent having never sailed before signing up.

On the current edition, crew’s day jobs (when not competing!) include teacher, plumber, firefighter, accountant and pastry chef –and hail from over 50 nations around the world. All have been through intensive and rigorous training to take part.

Over the course of the almost year long event, over 700 participants will face all that Mother Nature can throw at them. From hurricane force winds, to blistering heat, the isolation of the North Pacific Ocean to learning to live on a yacht with stripped back facilities in close quarters with their teammates.

Applications are still open for crew to sign up to participate on later legs of the Clipper 2025-26 Race with a FastTrack training programme in place.

TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY

To coincide with the major exhibition Pirates, the National Maritime Museum, London will be celebrating International Talk Like a Pirate Day on the weekend of 19 September.

This will include talks, character actors and a 2-for-1 discount* on tickets Friday to Sunday for the Pirates exhibition. Visitors who dress up like a pirate will also be in with the chance of winning prizes such as Cutty Sark Rig climb tickets, a City Cruisers voucher, a pair of Old Royal Naval College annual passes, a family tour of The Golden Hinde and a Royal Museums Greenwich membership.

Arron Hewet, General Manager, National Maritime Museum, said: “With our exciting Pirates exhibition at the heart of our celebrations, we are looking forward to welcoming like-minded pirate fans to the museum to enjoy performances from costumed actors, pirate-themed staff talks and craft activities.

"We are especially looking forward to seeing as many visitors as possible embrace the spirit of the occasion by dressing up – our own crew will be in full pirate attire, and we hope our visitors will join us in bringing the museum to life with their own pirate costumes.”

In 1995, American pirate enthusiasts and authors John Baur and Mark Summers inaugurated ‘International Talk Like a Pirate Day’, to be marked each year on 19 September.

CONWY MARINA WELCOMES

SECOND

SUBSCRIPTION BOAT

National marina group, boatfolk, reports boating is booming at Conwy Marina as it expands its boat subscription service – Beyonder.

Launched in May 2024, the service has quickly generated a waiting list, prompting the boat subscription brand to add a second Jeanneau Merry Fisher 795 to its Conwy fleet. The addition of the second boat will enable even more people in the region to access flexible, subscription-based boating.

The expansion reflects a growing appetite for boating in North Wales and aligns with the increased demand for more accessible, low-commitment ways to enjoy time on the water.

Jon Roberts, Marina Manager at Conwy Marina, said: “The increase in

demand for Beyonder at Conwy has been phenomenal, and in response we are bringing a second boat into the fleet so more people can start their boating journey here in North Wales.

"It is also fantastic for our existing members across the boatfolk group, giving them even more flexibility to explore our local waters.”

Beyonder offers members unlimited boating across a fleet of modern, well-maintained motorboats at marinas around the UK, including Conwy, Haslar and Portland. Designed for people new to boating or those looking for hassle-free access to the water, the service includes all training, maintenance and support.

In popular culture, pirates typically talk with a strong West Country accent as if they only came from Cornwall or Devon. Of course, pirates were from all over the place. However, the West Country pirate voice can be traced back to Disney’s Treasure Island in 1950. This was the studio’s first live action production with the Dorset-born actor Robert Newton

cast as Long John Silver, a role he repeated twice for cinema and television. Find out more about the history of pirates at the Pirates exhibition at the National Maritime Museum, London: rmg.co.uk/pirates

*The 2-for-1 discount is only available via rmg.co.uk/whats-on/national-maritime-museum/ international-talk-pirate-day

CENTENARY WINNER

For 100 years, the Rolex Fastnet Race, organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, has stood as one of offshore sailing’s most complete proving grounds. The 51st edition, marking the centenary of the race’s founding in 1925, more than lived up to that reputation.

The 695nm course appears straightforward: sail west to the Fastnet Rock, the iconic halfway point off southern Ireland, before returning east to Cherbourg-enCotentin, France. As the record fleet of 444 entries set off from Cowes, the forecast winds were a far cry from those that ravaged the previous two editions.

In the end it was the French yacht Léon which was overall winner of the centenary edition of the race.

Sailed double-handed, co-skippers

Alexis Loison and Jean Pierre Kelbert (pictured) raced to victory, but it was actually the second time for Alexis who won in 2013 sailing with his father Pascal. He joins a band of six other skippers to have won on more than one occasion.

Alexis said: “Ever since I was small, I have known about the Rolex Fastnet Race. I got into sailing because of my father. When I was growing up, he talked about the race all the time. It became the absolute Grail.”

While Léon won the Fastnet Challenge Cup for overall victory under IRC time correction, French trimaran SVR Lazartigue was the first to finish the race and Black Jack 100 secured monohull line honours.

A General History of the Pyrates, Captain Charles Johnson, published by Warner, 1725-6. Caird Collection Image: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

Image: Rolex/Carlo Borlenghi

HISTORIC MOMENT FOR AMERICA’S CUP

The Defender of the America’s Cup, The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, represented by Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, The Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd, represented by Athena Racing, have signed the Protocol for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup set to take place in Naples, in the summer of 2027.

The Protocol introduces a groundbreaking partnership that establishes equal authority between all participating teams.

Athena Racing CEO and Team Principal Sir Ben Ainslie said: “This is a seismic moment for the America’s Cup. The Partnership Agreement fundamentally reshapes the governance and organisation of the event. The teams and yacht clubs share a vision to make the America’s Cup more inclusive, compelling and financially sustainable. This new model marks a unified commitment to that vision. I am excited for the future of the sport.”

Entries for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup opened on 19 August with the America’s Cup entering a new chapter built on a centralised partnership which expands opportunity, grows the sport globally, creates value in the teams and unites all behind a shared vision for the future of one of sport’s most historic and iconic events.

At the heart of the Protocol is a Partnership Agreement, structured for all teams to collectively work within a long-term commercial structure for the future benefit and stewardship of the America’s Cup.

NYYC Commodore Jay Cross said: “As the founding Trustee of the America’s Cup, we are completely supportive of the move to modernise the oldest sporting trophy in the world.”

The America’s Cup has always evolved to meet the demands of its era.

Today’s sporting landscape presents new opportunities to enhance the competition’s global relevance and commercial strength. Through the Partnership, the America’s Cup can establish more predictable scheduling, with the Cup intended to become a bi-annual event, with consistent formats that build audience anticipation and enable better promotion.

Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton said: “Although the America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport and the pinnacle of sailing, its Achilles’ heel has always been its lack of continuity, so this transformation now gives all teams collective stewardship, and we are introducing a new executive management team to be headed up by a new independent CEO.”

The agreement establishes equal governance for all participating teams through the America’s Cup Partnership. ACP will be responsible for organising and managing the event’s on and off-water

format and will oversee the development, protection and commercialisation of media and commercial rights.

Grant continued: “By negotiating this Protocol and the America’s Cup Partnership with the Challenger of Record, it provides certainty for teams, commercial partners and event venues to invest for multiple editions. This is the boldest change in 174 years of the Cup, while respecting the Deed of Gift, along with the Challenger of Record we are confident this is the best initiative to grow what is already one of the greatest sporting events in the world.”

The future focused Protocol also includes developments aimed at increasing inclusivity, national representation and cost efficiency whilst ensuring the America’s Cup stays at the pinnacle of design and development in sport.

● The 38th America’s Cup will see a progression of the 37th America’s Cup, with a priority to continuing to build pathways for Women and Youth, by

maintaining the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup events, but also now including at least one female crew member onboard the AC75.

● The crew of the AC75s will consist of five sailors, with increased function of the boat powered by battery. The nationality clause requires that two sailors plus the female sailor must be a national of the country of the competitor but will allow up to two non-nationals to sail onboard as well.

● Racing format revitalised to keep all teams racing for longer and maximising race time with the Louis Vuitton Cup group stage comprising of match racing as well as fleet racing to include all competitors. The results of which will determine the top four Challengers that will race in a knockout match race Semi-Final (first to 5 wins) and Final (first to 7 wins) series to determine who the Challenger will be to race the Defender Team New Zealand in the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup Match in July 2027 in Naples.

● A series of up to three Preliminary Regattas are intended for 2026 and one in early 2027 to be raced in the AC40s with teams entitled to race two AC40 yachts each at each event, with one AC40 to be crewed by women and youth sailors. A final Preliminary Regatta will be raced in Naples in the AC75s immediately prior to the commencement of the Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series.

● In a significant move of cost containment for all teams, a cost cap

of €75m for the teams will be imposed for AC38 with refinements scheduled for AC39. Furthermore, the Protocol stipulates that all existing teams will use the same AC75 hulls that were raced in the 37th America’s Cup if available. New teams will only be permitted to acquire an existing AC75 or build a new hull to the design of an AC37 hull. All hulls must satisfy the specific Constructed in Country requirements as outlined in the Protocol in accordance with the Deed of Gift.

● To maximise commercial, media and fan engagement, the teams will carry one guest racer onboard their AC75 during races.

RYS Ltd’s Bertie Bicket said: “Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd is delighted to embark on a fourth successive America’s Cup challenge with Sir Ben Ainslie and Athena Racing, as the challenging Yacht Club for the 38th America’s Cup. "I would like to thank our friends at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and Team New Zealand with whom, alongside Athena Racing, we have worked closely over the past nine months to bring about this paradigm shift to the future structure of the America’s Cup. This has been a complex endeavour that has required a huge amount of collaboration and goodwill from all parties.”

All eyes will now turn to Italy which was officially confirmed in May as the host country for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, with Naples named as the Host City. The event is set to take place in the spring and summer of 2027.

British Marine Scotland is spearheading a major initiative to tackle Scotland’s marine skills shortage with the launch of a national training and workforce study, funded by Crown Estate Scotland. This industry-led project will create a comprehensive picture of technical marine training in Scotland and identify practical solutions to support the sector’s long-term growth. The work is focused on the leisure marine sector and small-to-medium sized vessels, covering core technical

skills such as boatbuilding, marine engineering and electronics, as well as composites, marina, mooring and small harbour operations and supply chain services.

Patrick Flockhart, Vice Chair of British Marine Scotland, said: “This is a critical, industry-driven initiative. Without urgent action to train, attract and retain skilled people, Scotland’s marine sector will face serious challenges. We are calling on everyone in the industry to get involved.”

Image: Paul Wyeth

Image: Suellen Hurling / RNZYS / America’s Cup

Image: Ricardo Pinto /America’s Cup

Image: C.Gregory/INEOS Britannia

More than just a berth

Southsea Marina

TAKE IT HOME AND BIN IT

To mark the return of the Marine Conservation Society’s Great British Beach Clean, which runs from 19 – 28 September, the charity shares perspectives from beach clean volunteers – the individuals driving positive change for our oceans.

Research by the Marine Conservation Society found that 74 per cent of respondents report an increase in beach litter during the summer, with a broad consensus that increased visitor numbers, and a gap in public awareness around the environmental impacts, are likely drivers. Volunteers repeatedly shared a clear, consistent message: take it home and bin it.

To turn this message into lasting change, volunteers are urging everyone to take collective responsibility for beach litter and embrace ocean-friendly habits.

In the words of one volunteer: “Beach litter harms marine life, pollutes our ocean and spoils natural beauty. Every piece left behind can end up in the sea –let us keep our beaches clean for wildlife and future generations.”

Volunteers from the Marine Conservation Society also called on governments of the UK to step up – highlighting the need for better infrastructure, such as more accessible bins on our beaches and stronger public education campaigns.

There are now clear signs of progress on our shores, with 78 per cent of volunteers surveyed reporting a positive change in beach litter recently. This is echoed by the charity’s beach litter data, collected by volunteers over the last decade, which recorded an average drop of 80 per cent in carrier bags found on UK beaches following the introduction of charges. This highlights how policies on single-use items can drive real change.

The Marine Conservation Society is calling on individuals to take meaningful action – join a beach clean and stop litter from entering our seas. Visit the charity’s website to find a clean near you. www.mcsuk.org

AIMING FOR A WORLD FIRST

James Ketchell is on his 30,000nm journey around the world aboard his Class 40 yacht, Mindset, which Premier Marinas is sponsoring.

James is setting out to achieve his third circumnavigation of the globe and become the first person in history to do so via air, sea and land.

It will take approximately nine months with stops in the Canary Islands, Cape Town, Melbourne, Punta Del Este in Uruguay, Antigua and New York, before arriving back at Premier’s Gosport Marina. This is

James’ second attempt after his 2024 expedition had to be abandoned due to gearbox failure.

During the sail, James’ main mission is to take young people on a virtual journey around the world, inspiring them to try new things, believe in themselves and develop the right mindset. He will be using Starlink Internet and will be streaming live videos to classrooms around the world.

Before setting sail James said: “I am extremely grateful to Premier Marinas for their help. My yacht, Mindset, called

NEW WORLD RECORD

The Ocean 5 team smashed the previous five-man Pacific crossing record in the World’s Toughest Row by over 19 days.

Five men, one boat and absolutely no turning back, to raise funds for The Lewis Moody Foundation which supports people living with brain tumours.

The Ocean5 crew completed the 2,800nm journey from California to Hawaii in 32 days, six hours and 51 minutes, shattering the previous record of 54 days.

The team, who trained in Lymington, Hampshire, survived on freeze-dried meals, protein snacks and 10 litres of water each per day, while enduring severe exhaustion, sleep deprivation, seasickness and huge waves.

Gtechniq, who gave support to the team, said: “We are honoured to have supported this groundbreaking journey with both our sponsorship and the use

of our high performance marine care products. It is always thrilling to see our solutions being used on such awe inspiring ventures, especially when it is towards giving hope and support to young lives battling brain tumours.”

Team Principal, Kevin Gaskell said of Gtechniq: “Manny and his team were amazing – totally professional, fast, neat and efficient. And then the product –wow! Previously, for the Atlantic row, we had to stop three times in 35 days to scrape the hitchhikers off the hull. Each time this was a couple of hours work and a distraction from the race. During the 32 days of the Pacific crossing we checked the hull a couple of times but there was nothing! Not a single organism had managed to attach itself to the hull.”

Find out how to donate to Ocean 5’s challenge: theocean5.com

A MAGICAL DAY

Gosport its home for over a year, and I am privileged to have prepared for my trip in the hub of yacht racing and all the supporting services and facilities that have been offered to me during that time.

“Embarking on my third circumnavigation of the world, this time upon a yacht that I love, will be a significant challenge for me both physically and mentally, but one I have been prepared for thanks to my team and the support I have received.” jamesketchell.net/about-the-challenge

gc@grahamcarlow.com

The rugged beauty of the Antrim coast provided the perfect backdrop for this year’s Redbay Boats Ardbeg Day Run, an event that has become a highlight for Redbay owners and their guests.

Blessed with calm seas and sunshine, dozens of boats gathered in Cushendall, Northern Ireland, ready for a passage that combined adventure, camaraderie and spectacular scenery.

The run took participants north along the dramatic cliffs of the Antrim coastline, past the famous Mull of Kintyre, across to Islay for a stop at the Ardbeg Distillery and then home via Rathlin Island. It is a stretch of water that some may hesitate to tackle alone, but with the safety and support of the Redbay team, it became a memorable adventure shared by all. Hospitality was woven throughout the day, thanks to the event partners.

Pantaenius UK, long-time supporters of the boating community, sponsored both the warm start with coffee and pastries in Cushendall, before participants were welcomed with a drink on arrival at the Ardbeg Distillery. Back on shore, the evening was equally memorable. Crews gathered for a festival-style night featuring a barbecue and live music, supported by Suzuki Marine.

As Mike Wimbridge, from Pantaenius UK, said: “Quite simply, the whole experience was magical. The boats, the setting, the welcome - it is a day that will stay with me for a long time.”

Events like the Ardbeg Run showcase what boating is all about - it is not just the thrill of the ride, but the chance to share unique moments with likeminded people.

Image: Ricardo Pinto for SailGP

Image:

Settle in for winter

at Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina

You're probably not quite thinking about the dark nights and cold weather just yet (we get that)... but we're thinking ahead to help guarantee a mooring space for your boat this winter! Security is top of our list but there are many more reasons to moor with us over the winter.

• Safe and secure berths

• Use of our facilities

• An always on hand crew (even when you’re not)

• Regular boat checks

• Access to marine services

• Fully serviced pontoons and jetties with electricity and water supply

• Upgrades to some jetties and electricity bollards

What’s more, we’ll match or beat any price for a winter mooring or boatyard services in a comparable marina in the local area. This applies to brand-new to Aquavista leisure contracts taken out for a minimum duration of four consecutive months by 31st October 2025.*

To secure your winter mooring or to just find out a bit more, talk to one of the crew on 01243 512310 or scan the QR code with your smartphone.

Did you know?

Birdham Pool's Boatyard is part of a marine service centre with many skilled craftsmen and engineers onsite.

In case your boat needs any maintenance, you don't need to go far. Some of the services we offer are lift and scrub, antifouling, painting, stepping and unstepping and storage of masts – at competitive prices.

WRECK IN REMARKABLE CONDITION

New evidence from Historic England to assess the condition of the Protected Wreck Site of the 18th century English warship the Northumberland reveals that a remarkably large section of the warship may survive intact on the seabed.

The survey, working with the Licensee of the Northumberland wreck, Dan Pascoe, who regularly dives it, and contractors MSDS Marine, showed that organic material such as wooden decks, wooden chests – some including cannon balls and the ship’s rope – have survived particularly well. This is due to being covered by sand and seabed sediments for hundreds of years.

The Northumberland was a Third Rate 70-gun warship built in Bristol in 1679 as part of Samuel Pepys’ regeneration of the English Navy. It sank during the ‘Great Storm’ on 26 November 1703 on the treacherous Goodwin Sands o the Kent coast, with three other warships - the

Restoration, the Stirling Castle and the Mary (the location of which is still to be determined). They were all part of Queen Anne’s fleet, who was the last Stuart monarch, reigning from 1702 to 1714.

Shifting sands, strong currents and wood boring sea creatures, which burrow into and damage wooden structures on the seabed, continue to make this fragile

Protected Wreck Site unstable, putting it at high risk of deterioration. It lies over a large area of the seabed between 15-20m deep and is covered by concretion or marine deposits, however more of it is being exposed every day.

First designated as a Protected Wreck Site in 1981, the Northumberland has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register since 2017. Its condition is carefully monitored by Licensee Dan Pascoe, as part of Historic England’s ongoing field work looking after England’s 57 Protected Wreck Sites on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Paul Je ery, Marine Team Leader at Historic England, said: “The completeness of the Northumberland wreck site is remarkable. Historic England’s diving work is so important to ensure we continue to record what we can of this site. It is a race against time as more of the Northumberland wreck becomes exposed.”

Historian Dan Snow, founder of streaming service, History Hit, also visited the Protected Wreck Site and has produced a film about the latest survey work.

Dan Pascoe said: “The Northumberland has the potential to be one of the bestpreserved wooden warships in the UK. However, at 20m underwater and nine miles o shore it is out of sight and mind to most people. Through History Hit the wreck and its many stories will become accessible to a wider audience, allowing the significance of this shared heritage to be fully realised.”

Dan Snow said: “Northumberland is THE missing link. Built roughly halfway

between the Mary Rose and HMS Victory, this wreck can fill in crucial details of shipbuilding and life at sea at that pivotal moment in our history. We have the Mary Rose, the ‘Tudor time capsule’, well here is a Stuart time capsule to sit alongside it.

“At History Hit, this is at the core of what we do – working with the best

experts to bring the biggest stories to a global audience of history super fans. By partnering with leading authorities like Historic England, MSDS Marine and Licensee Dan Pascoe, we ensure that this incredible chapter of history reaches those who are passionate about our shared past.” www.historyhit.com/podcasts

TWO SHOWS - ONE CITY

Ancasta is bringing you two opportunities in Southampton to explore, compare and purchase your next boat – the Southampton International Boat Show and Ancasta’s Autumn Show at Swanwick Marina.

Just a short drive from the Southampton International Boat Show, Ancasta’s Autumn Show, 20 – 28

September, o ers a more intimate, boutique viewing experience – with both new and pre-owned yachts available for immediate handover. Perfect if you want to be on the water before the season ends or to get a head start for 2026.

Featured models include Lagoon Catamarans, Protector Boats, Scorpion RIBs and pre-owned motorboats. Plus, Sanlorenzo Yachts UK will host an exclusive Open House at Swanwick Marina (viewings by appointment). ancasta.com

Dan Snow and Dan Pascoe Image: History Hit

THE OCEAN RACE EUROPE

Both Holcim PRB and Allagrande MAPEI Racing were forced to return to Kiel after a collision moments after the start of Leg 1 of The Ocean Race Europe last month.

After safely returning with her team and boat to Kiel, Holcim PRB skipper Rosalin Kuiper said: “It is very disappointing for our entire team, and for Allagrande MAPEI and for The Ocean Race Europe as well. At the moment we are focused on repairing the boat ASAP and to be on the starting line, hopefully, in Portsmouth…”

The two teams involved in the collision filed protests against each other; the Jury hearing took place during the stopover in Cartagena, Spain after Leg 2. The International Jury decided Team Holcim PRB was entitled to redress; Holcim PRB’s finishing position in Leg 1 will be equal to its average finishing position at the finish of Legs 2 to 5. There is no redress for the scoring gate in Leg 1 and no points earned in the remaining scoring gates will impact the redress awarded.

It was Biotherm who raced into Portsmouth with maximum points and a commanding early lead after Leg 1, while Malizia’s daring inshore gamble at Dover stole second place from Paprec Arkéa. For most of the Leg, Paprec Arkéa had held the upper hand, but approaching Dover, Malizia abandoned the mid-channel route and hugged the English coast to escape the full force of the adverse current. For hours the two were separated by barely a mile; it was a high-risk call, but the move paid o for Malizia.

The fleet - including Holcim PRB and Allagrande MAPEI Racing (who arrived in Portsmouth less than a day before the start) - then headed out of Portsmouth for Leg 2 to race 1,400nm to Cartagena, Spain, with a three-hour fly-by stopover in Matosinhos / Porto, Portugal where it was Biotherm who were once again at the front; Paul Meilhat’s team extending their perfect record by taking the maximum seven points on o er at the midway scoring gate.

Behind them, Paprec Arkéa pulled o the comeback of the Leg so far. Yoann Richomme’s team had dropped to the back after losing ground at the tidal gate o Brittany, but fought their way through the pack to take second, 42 minutes behind Biotherm. Third place went to Holcim PRB, 32 minutes behind Paprec. For skipper Rosalin Kuiper, it marked the team’s first points of the event after the collision in Leg 1.

Within three hours of docking, the fleet was back at sea. Almost every boat had led this Leg at some point – Canada Ocean Racing, Holcim PRB, Paprec Arkéa, Malizia, Biotherm, but Biotherm were the clear ones to beat.

Paul Meilhat and his crew – which includes Britain’s Sam Goodchild who came ninth in the Vendée Globe 2024/25 - on Biotherm went on to remain perfect on The Ocean Race Europe scoreboard after collecting

all the points available over the three di erent scoring opportunities on Leg 2, the longest stage of the event. For Team Holcim PRB second place was their best showing after the third place score at the Fly By stop in Matosinhos. They were followed in by Paprec Arkéa in third.

Leg 3 saw a three day sprint to Nice, France. The winner was the by now familiar Biotherm who extended their perfect score, having collected maximum points on all three Legs and all three scoring gates.

However, it was a close battle with Holcim PRB. For a while it looked like they would succeed as they reduced Biotherm’s lead to just over half a mile as the pair closed in on the Côte d'Azur, but Paul Meilhat’s crew held their nerve to claim victory.

Biotherm's Sam Goodchild said: "The only moment we felt ‘we have got this’ was about half a mile from the finish line when we could see wind between us and the finish."

Leaving Nice the teams made their way to Genova, Italy ahead of the final Leg to Montenegro where the teams are expected to arrive in mid-September followed by a Final Scoring Race on 20 September.

As well as Sam Goodchild (and British/Australian Jack Bouttell) on Biotherm, other British sailors to follow in the race (on all or some Legs) include Will Harris (co-skipper on Malizia), Alan Roberts (Holcim PRB), Abby Ehler (Allagrande MAPEI Racing) and Pip Hare and Brian Thompson (Canada Ocean Racing - Be Water Positive).

Allagrande MAPEI Racing after the incident at the race start

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SNAPS WEEKEND OF COMEBACKS

THE CRAZY COW

Evie Rogerson, a 10-year-old Optimist sailor from Hamble, has turned her passion for sailing into a new venture with the launch of The Crazy Cow. Her first product, Top Tactics, is a set of model Optimist dinghies to help sailors of all ages and abilities improve their racing tactics through hands-on, visual learning.

WINNING READERS

Congratulations to July’s competition winners. The winners of a pair of tickets to the Southampton International Boat Show are: Paul Planck, Adrian Bold, Brian Hampson, Nicola Solly, Ian Johns, Carol Frost, Jacqueline Williams, C Millard, Paul Stevens and Jon Wills. Kirsty Miller won the Gill Verso Race Trainers and Belinda Bowman won a copy of West Country Cruising Companion. This month’s competitions can be found on pages 16 and 61.

THIS TIME IN 2010…

As well as plenty of Southampton Boat Show news, we were counting down to the 2012 Paralympics. We were also celebrating the fifth birthday of The Green Blue which, as we know, is still going strong today! Read many past issues at www.allatsea.co.uk/ all-at-sea-the-paper

It was an eventful German SailGP last month, which saw the British team come back from a collision which damaged their boat on Day 1 to a podium place in the final race.

Emirates GBR faced a race against time to be ready for the second day of the inaugural Germany SailGP, after Taylor Canfield’s USA SailGP Team collided with their F50 race boat in a port–starboard, mid-fleet incident.

The collision occurred during the final race of the day, as GBR were sailing the upwind leg on starboard. The USA team approached on port and failed to alter course su ciently, striking the Emirates GBR hull and rudder and causing significant damage.

Emirates GBR Driver Dylan Fletcher said: “It was an unfortunate incident. We were clearly on starboard for some time and they were on port. It is pretty annoying and disappointing after starting the day so well.

We are assessing the damage now and hopefully the repair can be turned around so we can race tomorrow.”

The USA SailGP Team was penalised 12 event points and 8 season points for contact with Emirates GBR and did not race again that weekend due to damage.

Earlier in the day, the British team had made a strong start to the regatta. In Race 1 they nailed the start, hitting 98km/h at the first mark, but an extra

manoeuvre on the upwind leg allowed Germany to slip through, leaving the British to settle for second. Race 2 saw GBR claim an emphatic race win. Race 3, however, proved one to forget as the team slipped to a disappointing 11th. Their day then ended abruptly with the collision in Race 4.

The final day of racing came after a long night of repairs, as the SailGP Tech Team and the Emirates GBR shore crew worked against the clock to fix the British F50. Making it back onto the water, the team showed grit and resilience, dominating with back-to-back wins in fleet races 5 and 6 less than 24 hours after the collision put the team’s weekend in the balance.

Another strong performance in the final fleet race of the day saw GBR finish second and book their place in the final against Australia and France. Emirates GBR finished third, their fifth podium finish of the season, leaving them third in the League standings. France was top and Australia second in the final.

Thanking on-shore teams for the overnight repair, Dylan Fletcher said: “You would not believe it – an absolutely unbelievable e ort to ensure our team could race today, so this really goes out to them.”

Dylan continued: “It is great to be back in the top three again after a strong performance in Portsmouth. It is disappointing not to have won the last two finals, but we just need to keep chipping away and make sure we are in that winnertakes-all final in Abu Dhabi.”

Before the collision during racing, the practice race day had seen top-end conditions producing near-record speeds for the F50 race boats, as well as two major incidents; both Mubadala Brazil and France su ered damage during

practice racing. The Brazilians had a structural failure of the front beam, while France sustained damage to its rudder. In accordance with race safety protocols, racing was cancelled for the rest of the day. The damage meant Brazil was out of the weekend, while France was in a race to make the start line on Day 1.

As with Emirates GBR’s podium comeback after the collision with the USA team, France came back to win the Final! With only three stops to go until the Rolex Championship’s Grand Final in Abu Dhabi, all attention turns to this month’s European double-header in Saint-Tropez (12 - 13 September) and Geneva (20 – 21 September).

After welcoming 20,000 fans to the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix | Portsmouth in July, SailGP has confirmed a multi-year commitment to return to Portsmouth on 25 - 26 July 2026 with a further UK event on 24 - 25 July 2027. Tickets for next summer’s Portsmouth event are expected to be released soon.

Damage to the Emirates GBR boat

The damage to the USA SailGP Team catamaran after the collision with Emirates GBR on Race Day 1

The Mubadala Brazil SailGP Team had a structural failure of the front beam during practice

FLETCHER’S RETURN

Olympic champion Dylan Fletcher’s return to SailGP takes centre stage in a new episode of SailGP’s behindthe-scenes documentary series Racing on the Edge. Fletcher’s Return follows the Emirates Great Britain Driver’s relentless journey to reclaim his position at the top of the global racing championship, battling past setbacks, confronting his own ego and demonstrating unyielding determination to lead his team to success.

Produced in partnership with Rolex, the episode provides an intimate look at Dylan’s path back to the F50 after losing his role as Driver in Season 1.

Dylan said: “It felt as though that could be it – I may never drive an F50 again. I will never forget – we went to the 49er World Championships a couple of months later, and it was almost embarrassing walking into the boat park after having the boat taken away from me, no longer competing in SailGP.

“I was there on the sidelines just working out what I could do to get back into SailGP and that resulted in 2022 where I actually ended up working behind the scenes at SailGP working in hospitality. It was a bit of swallowing your ego, swallowing my pride.”

Watch the episode on SailGP’s YouTube channel.

COWES WEEK

With the spectacle of many of the fleets finishing in the sunshine, downwind under spinnaker, last month’s Cowes Week concluded in style.

The week saw a complete range of conditions, which were perfect for testing all the boats. Everything from big gusts and lumpy seas to flat, light airs and even a day off due to Storm Floris, which many welcomed after long, windy races on the Sunday.

Top boats emerging over the week were those who could keep their consistency in everything from the lightest airs, to big shifts and gusty strong breezes, with the added spice of the usual Solent tidal complexities. It was about good boat-handling, but also shift spotting and tactical planning together with sharp eyes to spot the marks as the course team juggled the challenges of the weather and varied fleets.

It was the XOD Astralita, with five firsts and a second place, which took the overall Cowes Week title. The team of John Tremlett helming with Fraser Graham and Tim Copsey won last year’s XOD title, and this year they had the added satisfaction of winning not just White Group, but the whole event.

Just one boat posted a clean sheet during the week, Sam Laidlaw’s Quarter Tonner BLT in

IRC6, which took the overall Black Group title in the process.

The event concluded with a grand prizegiving at the Royal Yacht Squadron for the RYS Trophies, followed by the full, public prizegiving on the stage at Cowes Yacht Haven.

Entries were up nine per cent on 2024; 450 entries were split between one-design day boats (White Group) and bigger IRC and handicapped keel boats (Black Group). Organisers are confident that numbers will grow again in 2026 as Cowes Week celebrates its 200th annual regatta (1 – 7 August). Interest has been received from some of the world’s biggest yachts and it is planned to run a three-day Triple Crown event for 100 footers as a result. Expect a bumper entry list, amazing entertainment ashore and a host of special visitors. Cowes Week Chairman, Bob Trimble said: “We welcome the widest range of competitors, from the most seasoned and experienced, through all ages and those who are entering Cowes Week maybe for the first time. The wonderfully successful racing in 2025 has been a terrific prelude to the 200th anniversary celebrations we are planning for next year.”

Astralita took the overall Cowes Week title

Image: Martin Allen

NAUTICAL READS ENTER TO WIN THIS BOOK!

REEDS CREW HANDBOOK 2ND EDITION

By Bill Johnson

£11.99

www.bloomsbury.com

Presented in bite-sized topics and packed with colour illustrations, Reeds Crew Handbook is the ideal primer or aide-memoire for new crew, and for anyone going on a flotilla or charter holiday, or sailing aboard a friend’s yacht for the weekend. Both a refresher for old hands and an ideal introduction for skippers to hand to new and aspiring crew, this guide gives them all the essential knowledge they need to undertake the tasks traditionally handled by crew aboard any size of yacht.

AMERICAN CIVIL WAR AMPHIBIOUS TACTICS

Ron Field (Author)

Steve Noon (Illustrator)

£14.99

www.bloomsbury.com

During the Civil War, as well as confronting the Confederates on land, the Union forces mounted several ambitious amphibious operations, both on the coast and along the banks the rivers. Fully illustrated, this study by Ron Field investigates the amphibious tactics and technologies adopted by the Union forces, and the units raised and equipped to conduct combined operations.

HARBOURS AND THEIR MASTERS

By Mark Ashley-Miller

Published by Fernhurst Books 16th September | £25

Harbours And Their Masters is the untold story of the Harbour Master and the harbours they manage.

For five years, Mark Ashley-Miller went on an extraordinary voyage, navigating 9,000nm to visit every corner of the British Isles. His mission?

To uncover the hidden world of our harbours and Harbour Masters –those dedicated professionals who safeguard our ports and keep maritime trade flowing. This challenge has so far raised £30,000 for The Seafarers’ Charity and all author royalties will go to this charity.

In this book, with a Foreword by Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, readers follow Mark as he visits 310

harbours and meets 256 Harbour Masters who reveal their unique challenges, stories and traditions. From ancient ‘Haveners’ to modernday CEOs, their role has evolved over centuries, yet their influence remains as vital as ever. Whether they are handling burning container ships, managing storm-ravaged harbour walls or juggling the ever-changing demands of commercial shipping, these unsung heroes work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Perfect for sailors, history lovers and maritime professionals, this book is a treasure trove of insights into Britain and Ireland’s harbours. It is a detailed account of a journey describing intimate encounters, unexpected adventures and an inside look at how harbours shape our maritime heritage.

If you have ever dreamed of sailing around the British Isles, exploring maritime history or understanding the vital work of those who keep our harbours safe, this is the book for you. It is packed full of over 500 colour photos recording the Harbour Masters met and the stunning beauty of the harbours themselves.

For a chance to win this book enter at www.allatsea.co.uk or by email to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header ‘Harbours and their Masters’ Competition.

Q: How many Harbour Masters did Mark AshleyMiller meet around the British Isles?

Closing date: 30/9/25. See competition T&Cs on page 4.

A bluefin tuna leaping to catch a garfish in the waters o the coast of Cornwall

UK BLUEFIN TUNA CHAMPIONSHIPS

The thrill of tuna fishing hits British waters once again as the UK Bluefin Tuna Championships 2025 return to Falmouth Harbour from 4 – 6 September, bringing together over 200 anglers and more than 30 boats for a ‘Catch & Release’ fishing competition. With strictly regulated sustainable practices, anglers will track, catch and release Atlantic bluefin.

Falmouth Harbour will become a hub of fishing, entertainment and conservation; the waterfront will host a live leaderboard, marquee, bar and sponsor exhibits. On Friday night, the marquee hosts a Q&A with ex-England rugby legends Tom Croft, Dean Richards and Mike Teague who are all competing in the competition, while Saturday night will culminate in the prize giving ceremony.

All skippers of vessels competing are required to have a bluefin tuna recreational fishing permit issued by

the Marine Management Organisation. The welfare of the fish is of paramount importance and to maintain the high standards required in the fishery all skippers will need to have taken part in an accredited training course before the event. The skippers and anglers will also be required to adhere to the Bluefin Recreational Catch and Release fishery Code of Practice issued by the MMO. The UK once had a thriving tuna fishery but numbers declined mainly due to overfishing of the Bluefin tuna themselves and the many species of baitfish which are their main food source. Many years of protection and conservation at a global level, overseen by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, have seen the remarkable fish back in huge numbers around the British coast for around five months of the year since 2016.

YOUTH SAILING PT1

This year we are celebrating 20 years of OnBoard, one of the UK’s largest grassroots programmes dedicated to getting children aged 8–18 out on the water for the first time.

OnBoard is the RYA’s children’s sailing and windsurfing programme open to anyone aged 8-18, offering them the opportunity to try watersports through their local club or centre in a safe, fun and structured environment.

Open to all children, it is a beginner programme that gets people on the water for their first time. Whether learning how to sail or windsurf, there is no experience or equipment needed to get you started. The programme is also progressive, so you can work your way through the RYA Youth Schemes.

RYA OnBoard has been around since 2005, and in the 20 years since then more than 1.3 million children have been introduced to sailing. From two pilot centres - Rockley Watersports in Poole and Hollingworth Lake Water Activity Centre in Rochdale - it has grown to a national movement of more than 330 involved centres and clubs across the UK.

From its early days connecting schools with local sailing clubs to get children afloat, OnBoard has evolved into a structured programme that uses sailing and windsurfing not only to teach water skills, but to build confidence, resilience and essential life skills.

The programme complements the National Curriculum delivering practical application of academic subjects including geography, maths and science, and provides a variety of valuable skills that help to build confidence and shape personal development through water activities.

Crucially, the programme plays a powerful role in addressing social inequality. Many participating schools report that their pupils would never have had the opportunity to sail otherwise. For underfunded schools and youth organisations, OnBoard offers an inclusive and highly effective solution that brings outdoor education directly to local communities.

PROVEN BENEFITS

Watersports and outdoor pursuits engage children in key areas of personal and social development as well as character education, including building personal identities, improving communication and learning to form good relationships.

The RYA OnBoard programme is carefully designed to further develop life skills and has learning at its core. As well as getting fresh air and exercise, children’s sailing and windsurfing offer a range of invaluable skills, from problem solving to confidence and teamwork.

We have known for a long time that sport and physical activity can have a beneficial effect on our health and mental well-being. Major studies have shown an ever increasing number of additional benefits in social and personal development. These positive effects are amplified in challenging sports such as sailing and windsurfing.

Being on the water creates multiple situations where young people are challenged and tested as they learn a new activity. The programme provides a great environment to help young people develop character attributes and capabilities that are so important for success in later life. In fact 88 per cent felt that sailing/ windsurfing showed them that they could do new things if they tried.

LIFE SKILLS

A key transformation came in 2017 when OnBoard was relaunched with a focus on character education, backed by research led by Professor Bill Lucas, Director of the Centre for Real-World Learning at the University of Winchester.

Using sailing as a powerful tool to build character and life skills in young people, this approach introduced six core personal attributes - Confidence, Teamwork, Communication, Determination, Creativity and Independence - which now underpin all OnBoard activities.

● Communication & Teamwork:

Able to listen carefully and offer an opinion, matching language to audience, capacity to see the world from someone else’s perspective

● Confidence & Creativity: Happy to learn from mistakes with self-belief, have a good idea when needed and understand how different experiences can be connected

● Determination & Independence: Mindset to stick with difficulty, bouncing back after setbacks, can communicate well with others, viewing the world from other another person’s position

The RYA has also recently worked with organisations such as Swim England and the RNLI to help develop and deliver Swim Safe through OnBoard.

LOOKING AHEAD

As it enters its third decade, OnBoard continues to provide opportunities for young people across the UK, allowing children to begin with no prior experience and progress through nationally recognised pathways - gaining

“As we celebrate 20 years of OnBoard, we are incredibly proud of how far the programme has come, but we are even more excited about where we are going”

the next 10 years, doubling down on efforts to engage new communities and schools.

2. Tackling inequality in access to sport and nature - Delivering OnBoard sessions in more underserved and underrepresented communities, focusing on breaking down barriers related to cost, location, ethnicity, gender and perceived exclusivity of sailing.

3. Connecting youth with blue spaces and building water confidence -  Ensuring more young people across the UK develop water safety awareness and confidence around the water.

4. Fostering skills for life - Expanding training to support character education and growth mindsets in young people, in turn expanding the UK instructors base so even more children can take part.

Sport England said: “As both a partner and funder of the RYA, Sport England is hugely proud of the progress and success achieved by the RYA since the launch of OnBoard back in 2005. With a core ambition to open up more opportunities to get out on the water, we are hugely supportive of the programme’s continued work to engage a further one million children and young people over the next decade.”  OnBoard’s success demonstrates how sport, when delivered with purpose and accessibility, can transform lives.

confidence, qualifications and life skills. Around 10 per cent of participants who have gone through OnBoard become regular sailors with many going on to volunteer or become instructors.

Hannah Cockle, RYA OnBoard Manager, said: “As we celebrate 20 years of OnBoard, we are incredibly proud of how far the programme has come, but we are even more excited about where we are going.

“Our goal is to introduce another one million young people to sailing over the next decade, with a focus on making the water more accessible and inclusive than ever before. OnBoard has always been about more than just sailing; it is about giving young people the confidence, character and life skills they need to thrive - in sport and in life.”

Looking ahead, the programme shows no signs of slowing with key areas of focus for the next 10 years including:

1. Reaching a further one million young people – Expanding access to sailing and windsurfing for an additional one million participants to take part over

To find your nearest OnBoard activity centre, you can use the RYA’s ‘Find My Nearest’ online tool, filtering services by OnBoard club: find.rya.org.uk

NEXT MONTH: Pt2 Taking a course

RYA Go Sailing!

(eBook/Book): £12.49

RYA Go Cruising! (eBook): £5.99

RYA Go Inland! (eBook): £5.99

RYA Go Green! (eBook): £5.99 RYA Go Windsurfing! (eBook/Book): £5.99 www.rya.org.uk/shop

Plus, check out the RYA’s YouTube channel: www.youtube. com/@RYA1875. New videos are added all the time such as ‘20 Years of Making WavesRockley Watersports & RYA OnBoard’ in which Pip Woods, Managing Director of Rockley Watersports, reflects on 20 years of the OnBoard programme.

SPOTLIGHT

SUPETA’S STORY

Laughing young voices, water rushing by and a favourite moment as a cheeky lad shouts “this is so cool!!!” watching dolphins jump out of the water next to us. Just one of the special moments experienced on Supeta Scout Training Yacht…

Supeta is a yacht once seen, rarely forgotten. Not a modern vessel but a Tyler Slipper 42 from 1987. A canary yellow hull with SCOUTS displayed in large letters along each side makes her stand out. The large centre cockpit is ideal to give a feeling of safety for unsure sailors. She sleeps 12 with some choosing to sleep under the boom tent in the cockpit. She is entirely non-profit making, being voluntarily run, relying entirely on donations to sail and be maintained.

Based at Shoreham, she is the only voluntary charity youth sail training yacht on the south-eastern channel coastline.

Putting the spotlight on organisations, clubs, charities and people making a difference in the boating community.

ONBOARD SUPETA

Last year Supeta carried just under 1,100 young people, a phenomenal number and a tribute to all involved whose aim is to get as many young people as possible on the water.

Supeta is moored behind lock gates in Shoreham making it an ideal location to take youngsters as young as four on the water safely. They are incredibly curious and enjoy games such as counting jellyfish and waving to everyone. These simple trips make them keen to return and go to sea.

Supeta teaches young people sailing skills and, in co-operation with local NCI stations, they learn how to do radio checks, AIS positioning and general procedures. Supeta is incredibly well fitted out with modern navigation systems, along with paper charts and hand bearing compasses. It becomes a game, plotting the best and quickest voyage leg. Sail handling, steering and getting the best trim are all part of it. There is no auto pilot so the youngsters sail the yacht, keep her on course, feeling wind shifts as sailors of old did.

One pleasant memory from a couple of years ago was during a passage from Shoreham to Poole. It was Cowes Week and a Royal Navy ship was anchored outside along with various other guest craft. The tourist boats spotted Supeta and immediately abandoned the other vessels, surrounding her and taking pictures much to the amusement of our teenager crew members.

BACK TO THE BEGINNING

So how did Supeta come about? A heart rending story, she was bought by a

couple to fit out to sail to Australia. Sadly, just before retiring, the husband passed away from cancer. Their son, not wanting to let his mother down, carried on the work but he also succumbed to cancer. The yacht languished unfinished and unused until the widow offered her to the Sea Scout Group. As is often the case, the refit work was far more than anticipated and two to three years later Supeta was launched. Her use is such that they will soon need to look around for a replacement.

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ASK THE EXPERTS

How to encourage your children to get into boating

By Colin McLean, Haslar Marina Assistant Marina Manager

As a father, grandfather and keen boater, I have always believed the best way to pass on our love for the water to the next generation is to encourage and inspire them to experience the thrill of boating in their youth. As we know, children learn faster when they’re having fun; the trick is to make boating exciting, safe and inclusive from the very first trip.

Start with water confidence

The first step is simple: before getting on the water, make sure the child/ren in question can swim confidently and feel comfortable within their abilities, in the water.

Many local sailing clubs and schools offer training sessions and holiday clubs where children can learn the basics of boat handling alongside friends their own age. These sessions often include capsize drills, rigging and on-the-water games, helping them respect the water without fearing it.

If they enjoy those first sessions, from there, it’s much easier to build their skills and enthusiasm.

Taking the helm: literally & figuratively Involve them from the moment you step aboard. That means no sitting below deck until the boat is underway - let them help under supervision with predeparture checks, starting the engines or talking through how you’ll exit the marina. Ask their opinion on how wind and tide will affect the boat. You might be surprised at the fresh ideas you hear; young minds often spot solutions adults overlook!

Treat them as part of the crew from the beginning such as letting them release mooring lines; I would regularly put an additional shoreline on a cleat that takes no load out just so they have a job. And once underway, let them steer. My youngest grandson took the wheel at just five-years-old - he wasn’t aware the autopilot was engaged, but that didn’t matter! The grin on his face said it all. For older children, set challenges: who can hold the straightest course for five minutes? Chartplotters can track their progress, or you can simply check the wake.

Keeping it fun & engaging for kids On sailing yachts, get them involved in every aspect - from raising sails to grinding winches (with supervision). Give them jobs that match their age and ability, gradually increasing responsibility as their confidence grows. Games, challenges and small responsibilities keep their minds engaged. And remember, the fun doesn’t stop at the boat; paddleboards, inflatable toys or an electric outboard dinghy can turn downtime at anchor into hours of entertainment.

Kit, comfort & safety

Safety is non-negotiable, but comfort matters too. Swap bulky buoyancy aids for automatic lifejackets as soon as they’re big enough and kit them out with proper sailing gear so they feel part of the crew. Go through lifejacket safety checks together, involving them in every element from identifying if they’re the correct weight and in-date, to a visual inspection for damage and checking the inflation mechanism, buckles and straps, before you go to sea.

Keep trips short to begin with, aim for fun destinations and avoid bad weather where possible to mitigate sea sickness and poor conditions. And if things go wrong, stay calm – children can quickly sense your emotions.

The next generation: Boatgen

If you’re looking for an introduction to on-water experiences aimed to inspire the younger generation, boatfolk’s Boatgen programme is a fantastic way to get young people hooked on the water. In partnership with The Andrew Simpson Foundation, Boatgen offers accessible activity days, providing on and off-water skills sessions, youth sailing team opportunities and an ambassador scheme - helping kids and teens gain skills, make friends and feel part of a community of passionate young boaters.

Find out more about boatfolk, by visiting: www.boatfolk.co.uk

GETTING INTO DINGHY SAILING

Amelie Ballantyne, a 15-year-old dinghy sailor from Devon, is a familiar face in All at Sea sharing her experiences and advice as a youth sailor. This month Amelie has these great tips for anyone thinking about getting into dinghy sailing.

If you are looking for a fun, exciting sport that is a bit different from, say, football or tennis, dinghy sailing could be for you. I started sailing dinghies when I was 10, and it quickly became my favourite thing to do. It is more than just sitting in a boat — it teaches independence, problemsolving and confidence. You have to think for yourself, especially when you are sailing solo. It is also a great way to meet people, travel to events and experience nature in a whole new way.

So where do you start? Here is a quick guide to what dinghy sailing is and how to get into it as a beginner.

A dinghy is a small sailing boat, usually for one or two people, that is fast, lightweight and super responsive to your movements. You do not have an engine, so everything depends on how you handle the wind and steer the boat. There are different classes of dinghy, depending on your age, size and experience level. Younger kids often start in Optimists or RS Teras, while

teens usually sail boats like Toppers or Lasers. Once you are confident, you can try double-handed dinghies like the RS Feva, 420 or a 29er where teamwork becomes really important.

TAKE A COURSE

If you have never been on a boat before, I would recommend going on a dinghy sailing course. The RYA run taster sessions for total beginners as well as levelled courses which will give you the chance to try the sport with a qualified and knowledgeable instructor who can show you the ropes, and then fine tune your skills and technique as you get better.

Most courses last a few days and include everything from putting the boat together to sailing solo. You will also learn about boat parts, weather, tides and the all-important capsize recovery - yes, you will probably capsize at some point, but that is part of the fun! If you have done a bit of sailing in the past, then you can choose a course that is suitable for your level. The RYA has a full list of course providers on their website, and this will be covered in more depth in next month’s Youth Sailing series.

Many young people also try watersports through their local club or centre in a safe, fun and structured environment with OnBoard, which is the RYA’s children’s sailing and windsurfing programme.

JOIN A CLUB

My next recommendation would be to join a sailing club where, even if you do not have a boat yet, there are always plenty of opportunities to get on the water. Most clubs have their own boats for hire that will give you a flavour for different craft.

Sailing clubs are very sociable and supportive places, and people are

always willing to chat boats, and give advice out. Many clubs also have junior/ youth membership programmes, race training groups and weekend sailing sessions. You will get to meet other teenagers, improve your skills and maybe even compete if you are into that. I love being at my sailing club; it is such a great community. I sail with both the juniors and the adults on race days.

THE KIT

In terms of kit, you do not need tons to start; most places that run courses will lend you a buoyancy aid and a wetsuit. You should wear old trainers or wetsuit boots, as your feet will get wet, and in colder weather, a spray top or sailing gloves can help. The most important thing is that you are warm and comfortable.

Once you are more into it, you might want your own kit — like a wetsuit that fits better. There are lots of places where you can buy this kit at good prices; I tend buy mine online from places such as Rooster or P&B as they have lots of stock at great value and are very helpful. You can also find kit second-hand, which will be good if you are just starting out.

So, if you like being on the water, learning new skills and having adventures, dinghy sailing is definitely worth a try. It might look tricky at first, but with practice (and a few capsizes), you will get the hang of it — and you might just love it as much as I do.

We will hear from Amelie again soon.

BOAT SEA FISHING ZONE

HOW TO GET YOUNGSTERS HOOKED ON BOAT FISHING

(WITHOUT LOSING YOUR COOL OR YOUR BAIT)

Forget dragging them along - if you do this right, your teens will be the ones begging you for the next trip. Boating and fishing together? That is the magic combo. One is freedom, the other is the thrill of the catch. Put them together, and you have got the ultimate outdoor adventure - and a way to get older kids o screens and into something unforgettable.

1. Give Them Control

Kids this age crave independence. So, hand over responsibility: let them learn to launch the boat, tie knots, read charts and steer. Teach them how to navigate and trim a line - not just cast one. When they feel in control, they stay invested.

2. Upgrade The Gear Game

Teens love gear that feels legit. Let them rig up their own rods, choose lures, set drags and even run the sonar. Show them how tech and nature meet - fishfinders, GPS, tide apps – it is all part of the draw.

3. Make It Social (And A Bit Competitive) Invite a friend. Create mini challenges: biggest fish, first fish, weirdest item caught (hello, rogue flip-flop). And do not forget the playlist - boating with music = instant vibe.

4. Keep The Food And Fun Flowing Pack epic snacks. Let them jump in the water if it is warm. Grill the catch later. Build memories around the whole experience, not just the fishing part.

5. Celebrate Every Success Big or small catch, let them show it o . Snap photos, share the story, name the fish if you must. They will remember the adventure long after they have posted it.

Bottom line: Give older kids a taste of freedom, a bit of responsibility and a splash of adrenaline, and they will be hooked - not just on fishing, but on boating for life.

CATCH OF THE MONTH

Send in your best angling pics every month – you and your catch! If yours is the winning photo, you will receive a RAILBLAZA Rod Holder II worth £28.96. Email your photo to editor@allatsea.co.uk including your name, fish species and where it was caught.

TOPE

Tope, a hard-fighting member of the shark family, are a thrilling target for anglers around the UK coast. These streamlined predators, typically ranging from 20 - 40lb but capable of exceeding 50lb, o er an exhilarating battle.

Rig Use and How to Make Them: A strong, simple running ledger rig is highly e ective. You will need a 20 - 30lb class boat rod, a large multiplier or fixed spool reel and a strong mainline (20 - 30lb mono or braid). The key is the trace: a 6 - 8ft length of 150 - 200lb monofilament or 90lb nylon-coated wire is essential to withstand their sharp teeth. Attach this to a strong swivel, which then connects to a large (6/0 - 10/0) circle hook. Circle hooks are preferred for their

FOR RAILBLAZA KIT HEAD TO PETER LEONARD MARINE’S STAND AT SIBS! P240

e ectiveness in jaw-hooking, which aids safe release. A zip slider allows the lead to slide freely above the trace.

Bait: Oily fish are top choices. Fresh mackerel, ideally as a whole ‘flapper’ (filleted to create scent) or whole squid are excellent. Freshness is paramount, but frozen baits can also work.

Best Time and Where to Fish: The prime season for tope on the South Coast runs from June through October, with July and August often being peak months. They are often found in areas with good tidal flow, over mixed ground where sand meets rough reef or near inshore wrecks and banks. Look for gullies and channels along sandy beaches or deep-water marks. While they can be caught during daylight, dawn and dusk are often particularly productive, especially if the flood tide coincides with these times. Boat anglers will find success over o shore reefs, wrecks and banks.

By: Mike Cave, Quality Time

Fishing Channel

ICAST – WHERE THE TRADE HUNTS FOR THE LATEST FISHING INNOVATIONS

This month’s winner is Brandon Huggins with a tope. The runner-up is Naomi Beer with her first ever fish, a black bream caught aboard Valkyrie charters.

See more of your catches at www.allatsea.co.uk.

Send us your catch photo and you could win a RAILBLAZA Rod Holder II

ICAST 2025, held in Orlando, Florida, lived up to its reputation as the world’s largest sportfishing trade show. With over 15,000 attendees from more than 70 countries and the vast show floor nearly sold out in advance, the event brought together the global industry’s biggest players for major product launches, hands-on experiences and networking on an epic scale.

Founded by the American Sportfishing Association, ICAST is where hundreds of manufacturers - from household names to boutique innovators - unveil their latest o erings, while buyers, media and retail execs hunt for tomorrow’s next bestseller. Over 900 brands displayed cutting edge tackle, gear and electronics across the 200,000 sq ft exhibition hall, and beyond the corridor, the action spilled into demo ponds, educational seminars and pop-up villages like ICAST On the Water Demo Day and the Fly Shop flytying space.

RAILBLAZA debuted its groundbreaking inflatable hybrid fishing platform ‘The Mule’ - a sleek vessel blending the stability of a SUP with the utility of a

LURE OF THE MONTH

kayak, complete with multiple mount points and a tracking keel for stealthy shallow water performance. Alongside The Mule, RAILBLAZA showcased new accessories such as the GridLock phone holder, carbonfibre Stealth Camera Boom, TracMount tiedown system and the modular Trident carbonfibre push pole.

In sum, ICAST 2025 was more than a trade show – it was a colossal convergence of business, media, innovation and passion. From product launches to paddle demos, industry dinner events to Happy Hour chats, the show’s sheer scale and the energy it generated rea rmed its status as the heartbeat of modern sportfishing gear evolution.

The Seadra Aqua-Bullet Baitfish Casting Jig is a rocket in the water! Casts like a dream and dances like real bait. Fish cannot resist it - especially the big ones. Sleek, shiny and deadly e ective. If you want explosive strikes and brag-worthy catches, this jig’s your new secret weapon. Thanks to its aerodynamic design and weight, it casts long distances - perfect for surf, pier or boat fishing. Highly e ective for targeting fast, aggressive predatory fish. From £5.99.

ICAST 2025

TOP TIPS PT1

Autumn is boating’s bestkept secret and according to Martyn Sherratt, Manager at MDL Marinas in Brixham and Torquay, it is a season too good to miss. Here is how to make the most of September and October on the water.

BREAK THE SUMMERONLY HABIT

Many boaters think cruising stops after August. Not true.

“A lot of it comes down to habit. Boaters tend to associate cruising with peak summer months. Some assume the weather will be too cold or think marina services wind down after August – which

is not the case at our sites. There is also a perception that everything shuts down after the school holidays, when actually September and October often o er some of the best conditions of the year.”

ENJOY THE PEACE AND QUIET

Fewer boats mean easier berthing, less rush and more relaxed days on the water.

“The waters are much quieter, so berthing is easier and the whole experience is more relaxed. Wildlife sightings can be brilliant. You also get stunning sunrises and sunsets, crystalclear water visibility and more time with marina teams and local businesses.”

Brought to you by

PICK YOUR PERFECT DESTINATION

A mid-week trip in September can feel like you have got the place to yourself.

“From our marinas in Torquay and Brixham, you have got great short passages to places like Dartmouth, Salcombe, Teignmouth, Exmouth and Weymouth. Plymouth is a bit further but o ers excellent sheltered cruising and great facilities at our Queen Anne’s Battery marina. Even just cruising across Tor Bay between our two sites can feel like a mini getaway.”

REMEMBER – MARINAS ARE STILL FULLY OPEN

MDL’s core services are fully operational year-round.

“Our core services like fuel, water, power, WiFi and sta ng are available throughout the year. All sites are manned 24/7 and our customer service levels stay consistent. Our on-site tenants –including restaurants, brokers and sea schools – also remain active.”

In the first part of their new top tips series, MDL Marinas shares this fantastic advice for autumn cruising.

USE THE TIME FOR TRAINING AND MAINTENANCE

Sea schools often have more availability, and engineers can fit you in faster.

“Autumn is a great time for training. Our sea school tenants often have more availability, so boaters can complete courses before spring. It is also a quieter time to book in maintenance, with shorter lead times.”

MAKE THE MOST OF MID-WEEK CRUISING

With remote working on the rise, you can dodge weekend crowds and see favourite spots in peace.

“More berth holders are staying active into autumn, and visitors are arriving later in the season. Remote working has made a di erence – some boaters now come mid-week. Others are planning maintenance more strategically, using autumn for light cruising and preparing for lift-out later in the year.”

ADAPT YOUR CRUISING STYLE

Shorter passages, longer stays and more time ashore make autumn trips even better.

“Do not be put o by cooler weather. Plan shorter passages with longer stays. Use this time to visit places you might avoid during summer crowds. Speak to your marina team – there may be seasonal o ers or berth swaps. It is also a great time to schedule maintenance or upgrades before the winter rush.”

DO WHAT THE EXPERIENCED BOATERS DO

Conditions change faster in autumn – keep an eye on tides, daylight and forecasts.

“Pay close attention to weather –autumn conditions can change quickly. The more experienced boaters also leave more margin for tides and daylight, and they are usually more proactive with winter prep – things like servicing, berthing practice or even antifouling before spring demand kicks in.”

If you would like to learn more about MDL Marinas and the services o ered across its 19 premium marinas, visit www.mdlmarinas.co.uk.

MDL’s core services are fully operational all year

Use this time to visit places you might avoid during summer crowds

Fewer

CRUISING WITH YOUR PET PETS AFLOAT SPECIAL

The Cruising Association’s Tania Nieveen shares important advice when travelling abroad with your much-loved

Taking your pet with you can increase your enjoyment of cruising. Pets get to come on holiday with you with the advantage that there are no kennel or cattery fees to worry about.

They are great company and dogs make great walking companions when you get to your destinations. However, the rules and regulations of travelling with pets are very complex, and so here we answer many of the commonly asked questions.

ARE THERE ANY REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVELLING WITH PETS BETWEEN GREAT BRITAIN (ENGLAND, WALES AND SCOTLAND), ISLE OF MAN AND THE CHANNEL ISLANDS?

The good news is, if you are travelling with your pet between Great Britain, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands, or you are entering GB from Northern Ireland there are no pet documents or health requirements for travel. You do not need to use an approved route (such as ferry or air route) and you can take your pet on your private boat with you.

WHAT ABOUT TRAVELLING TO NORTHERN IRELAND FROM GREAT BRITAIN WITH A PET?

Since 4 June 2025 pets travelling from GB to Northern Ireland have been required to have a Pet Travel

WHAT PAPERWORK IS REQUIRED?

Before your dog, cat or ferret can travel to the EU, you will need to take the following steps.

n You will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of a pet passport or an EU Pet Passport issued in the EU.

n You must have your pet microchipped.

n Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies – your pet must be at least 12-weeks-old before it can be vaccinated.

n You must wait 21 days after the primary rabies vaccination before travel.

n You must visit your vet to get an AHC for your pet no more than 10 days before travel to the EU.

As long as you keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up-to-date, you will not need to get repeat vaccinations for repeat trips to the EU.

IS THIS THE SAME FOR ALL EU COUNTRIES?

Yes. These requirements are the same for all EU countries.

In addition, if you are travelling with your dog directly to Finland, Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway or Malta from outside any of these countries (other than GB), it must have treatment against tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis). Your dog will need to receive treatment one to five days before arriving in any of these countries. Your vet must enter full details on the AHC following treatment.

HOW MUCH DOES THIS COST?

An AHC costs up to £220 - £250, although some providers offer AHCs for as little as £99. Rabies vaccinations cost around £50 - £90. A booster is required every one to three years depending on the vaccine used.

HOW DO I GET AN ANIMAL HEALTH CERTIFICATE (AHC)?

You must get an AHC from a vet practice. You must take proof of: n your pet’s microchipping date n your pet’s vaccination history

HOW LONG DOES AN AHC LAST?

An AHC lasts for four months from the date of issue and must be used to enter the EU within 10 days of the date of issue.

DO ALL VETS OFFER THIS SERVICE?

Most vet practices offer this service but only ‘official vets’ can sign the AHC. You need to check with your vet practice in good time to check the availability of the service and the vets to sign the AHC.

PETS AFLOAT SPECIAL

WHAT ABOUT COMING BACK TO GREAT BRITAIN?

There has been no change to the current health requirements for pets entering GB post 1 January 2021.

Your pet must have one of the following documents when returning to GB from the EU:

n an EU pet passport (issued in the EU, or in GB before 1 January 2021)

n the AHC issued in GB used to travel to the EU – which you can use up to four months after it was issued n a GB pet health certificate (for travel into GB only) e.g. Where you have exceeded the four months validity of the AHC.

n These documents must record that your pet meets the same requirements as those required for travel to the EU plus it must have had treatment against tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis). Your dog will need to receive this treatment one to five days before arriving in Great Britain and details entered onto the AHC or Pet Passport by a vet.

CAN I BRING MY PET BACK TO GB FROM THE EU ON MY OWN BOAT?

No. You must travel using approved ferry or air routes. Your pet’s documents and microchip will be checked when entering GB. Most ferry operators to France do not allow pets unless taken onboard in a vehicle, however, DFDS do allow dogs with a foot passenger on the Newhaven – Dieppe and some other routes, but it is advisable to check if there are any additional restrictions.

WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE A CAR?

Bringing your pet back to Great Britain if you do not have a car (or other type of vehicle) is difficult unless you use a route that allows pets to travel with foot passengers. You may be able to ask a friend to take your pet on a ferry but you will need to sign a declaration giving them permission to do this.

ARE THE RULES DIFFERENT FOR CATS?

The rules for cats are the same as for dogs and ferrets too. The only exception is that cats and ferrets are not required to have treatment for tapeworm before entering GB and certain other EU countries.

IS ALL THIS REALLY NECESSARY?

Yes, the rules are in place to protect the health of animals and people in GB and the EU.

WHAT IF I DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT PAPERWORK?

If you do not have the correct, valid paperwork your pet could be refused entry and could be required to go into quarantine. You would be responsible for all associated costs.

MIGHT THE RULES CHANGE IN FUTURE?

Yes, in fact, following the announcement by the Prime Minister on 19 May 2025, a new deal between the EU and the UK will include the re-introduction of EU pet passports. This should mean that for travel between the EU and the UK you can apply for a lifelong passport, rather than a one-off Animal Health Certificate. There are currently no more details or timescales for the change. These changes may also lead to changes to the Pet Travel Document process for travel from GB to Northern Ireland.

IF YOU HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS…

The government website covers most of the information you will need about travelling with your pet at www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad

You can also contact the pet travel helpline if you need more help. Unless your question is very straightforward you may need to allow up to five working days for the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) to provide an answer.

E: pettravel@apha.gov.uk

T: 0370 241 1710, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17:00 (closed on Bank Holidays)

Additional information is available at: theca.org.uk/ pets

In this special extended Pets Afloat we are sharing even more photos of your beloved pets enjoying time onboard!

Does your pet love the

editor@allatsea.co.uk. As well as

too? Send us your

Image: Derek Lumb

berth fits eight ALMA Globe 580 one design adventure

water

photos:

featuring

Working Cocker Bonnie is excited to be heading out to Swanage for a picnic lunch.

Forest enjoying a downwind sail!

Milo enjoying the sunset over Brightlingsea.

Sausage the Spaniel brings salt water, sand and happiness onboard his family’s Rival 41 and is never happier than when swimming.

Brisa is a Spanish water dog who loves to be either in the water or on the water aboard Tempo, a Moody 333. This is her sailing to Clovelly for the weekend.

Meet Pumpkin and Marine, the fluffy boat cats. They have been living on the water for 10 years! Check them out on Instagram - @fluffyboatcats.

This is James a West Highland Terrier... on his way to Scotland for his first trip across the Irish Sea.

Polar Bear loving life on a Zodiac Open in the North Sea.

We love this photo of Ruby, the Cocker Spaniel.

Adorable Clemmie says, “Don’t forget about me!”

A PAWFECT DAY PETS AFLOAT SPECIAL

hit-and-run. We really would have gone in after her but knew the safest thing was to call for help.

“She just kept swimming, and there was no sign of an owner so we knew something was wrong. We called 999 and asked for the Coastguard, while Andrew climbed over the rocks to keep track of where she was so he could help direct the lifeboat crew.”

CLIFF LEDGE RESCUE

A dog was rescued from a precarious cliff ledge by RNLI crews after getting into trouble chasing a ball. Members of the public had reported hearing Ember barking, but due to the inaccessible location could not see the stranded spaniel (pictured above).

The location was just a short distance from the lifeboat station; two RNLI crew kitted in drysuits and lifejackets went to check the location. Wading and swimming to the location, they located Ember and carefully made their way up onto the ledge.

Moelfre RNLI Coxswain, Vince Jones said: “As we entered the water near the cliff, we could hear the dog yapping away. Where the spaniel was trapped, it would have been inaccessible from the cliff top so kitted in our drysuits and lifejackets we entered the water and made our way onto the ledge.

“After a few moments of talking to Ember, she seemed to calm down and we were able to get a lead on. It was great to then reunite the spaniel with her owner. The owner did the right thing by coming to the lifeboat station and alerting us.

“Our advice is to never go in after your pet and to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Always keep them on a lead when near the edge of cliffs or piers.”

CLIFF FALL

In July the RNLI Penlee all-weather lifeboat was launched to assist with a dog which had gone over a cliff between Rinsey and Porthleven. After some time searching, the dog was located at Parc Trammel Cove near Porthleven where the cliff rescue team had also attended but the cove appeared inaccessible from above.

Coxswain Patch Harvey dispatched Ivan Ellen’s Y-boat with volunteers

Lewis William and Chris Davey aboard. They approached the dog, a chocolate labrador called Nutmeg which had some cuts and bruises to its face but otherwise seemed unhurt.

Chris Davey carried Nutmeg to the Y-boat and they returned to the Ivan Ellen, where the dog was treated to blankets and water and a check over. At the harbour Nutmeg was reunited with its owner who was ‘very thankful’.

Maggie the following day - wondering what all the fuss was about!

RUNAWAY RESCUE

Maggie, a two-year-old Pomsky – a Pomeranian-Husky cross – had only been adopted two days earlier when she slipped her lead and ran across Old Harbour Beach, South Wales and into the water.

Dog-sitters Martha Bickerton and Andrew Robertson were nearby with their own dogs when they saw her bolt down the beach and keep swimming.

At the time of the call, Barry Dock lifeboat was already out on exercise in Cold Knap Bay when it was tasked by the Coastguard to investigate reports of people entering the water at Cold Knap Point in an attempt to rescue a dog.

The lifeboat carefully manoeuvred alongside the tired but still swimming Maggie, who was swiftly recovered onboard and wrapped in blankets to retain body heat. After confirming no persons were in the water and updating the Coastguard, the all-weather lifeboat returned to Barry Harbour.

Maggie was handed to the volunteer shore crew and taken into the lifeboat station to be dried and comforted. A crew member contacted a local vet for advice and to check whether the dog had been reported missing. By chance, a missing dog report had just been filed – the owner was contacted and soon reunited with Maggie.

Maggie’s owner, Julie, said: “My little Maggie, who has nine lives, is doing exceedingly well! We are thinking of renaming her Houdini. We will keep her in for a while until we are confident she is not a flight risk. Thank you so much to the crew for rescuing her.”

Coxswain Andy Gavan said: “Martha and Andrew did the right thing by calling for help rather than going in after the dog themselves. We are glad to have been able to bring Maggie home.”

NOT JUST DOGS!

It is not all dogs as volunteers of Holyhead RNLI rushed to the aid of a cat that was stranded in the inner port of the town. A member of the public called his friend, a lifeboat volunteer, and described the scene, and the decision was made to launch the inshore lifeboat Mary and Archie Hooper, due to the cat’s position and the gathering crowd of concerned members of the public.

HM Coastguard was contacted and agreed to the lifeboat launching, and monitored the situation as it unfolded. As they reached the cat, at first he moved away, obviously unsure what was happening. A crew member then stood up and made contact with the cat, before gently picking him up and placing him safely into the lifeboat. Back on secure ground, the cat gave a momentary glance of thanks to the crew and headed off towards the town.

Martha said: “We are super paranoid in general after we lost one of our dogs to a Peanut was stranded on

Ember being rescued by RNLI crew

Penlee lifeboat volunteers with Nutmeg

Image RNLI/Philip Monckton

Image courtesy of Julie, Maggie’s owner

PETS AFLOAT SPECIAL

RNLI

Mark Wade, Holyhead RNLI coxswain, said: “It is not every day we launch to rescue a cat, but we are very glad this was a successful outcome. We launch to animals in trouble, not only to help the animal itself, but to prevent any members of the public getting into di culty themselves trying to rescue it. In this case, the public did the right thing and stayed on land.”

From pets to farm animals, volunteer lifeboat crew at Fethard RNLI were requested by the Irish Coast Guard to go to an area approximately one nautical mile north of Duncannon, to assess the welfare of a sheep who had fallen from a ledge and was being surrounded by a rising tide. Crew member Diarmuid Bird entered the water, collected the sheep and brought it to the nearby pebble beach.

Fethard RNLI Helm Mick Roche said: “This launch highlights the importance of taking care and to be wary of all edges around the sea and waterside. Slips and falls happen in all kinds of locations, not just high cli edges. We would remind animal owners to never get themselves in danger trying to rescue a family pet or animal from the water. If you are worried about an animal’s safety, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”

KEEPING YOUR DOG SAFE AT THE BEACH

Beaches are a brilliant place for pups – there is water to splash in, sand to dash across, new smells to discover and fellow four-legged friends to meet. But in 2022, the RNLI rescued 164 dogs from around the UK’s coastlines. Volunteer crews have plucked dogs from the waves, saved stricken puppies

Lewis Arnold, Lifeboat Coxswain at RNLI Newhaven Lifeboat Station, says: “As a dog owner, I know how much people’s pets mean to them, so I understand what is at stake when we are being called out to rescue a dog. We will

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR DOG – AND YOURSELF – SAFE:

⚫ When you are at the coast, always keep your dog on a lead when walking close to cli edges or near fast-flowing water.

⚫ If your dog swims too far out in the water or gets stuck in mud on the beach, do not go after them. Move to a place they can get to safely and call them – they will probably get out on their own.

⚫ If your dog gets into trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

always launch the lifeboat if there is an animal in trouble on the coast, but there are a few things you can do to make sure it is not yours that we are going to save.”

(see box above)

BE PREPARED

When you are planning your visit, firstly check whether dogs are allowed on the beach, and when. You can check for dog-friendly beaches on websites like The Beach Guide (www.thebeachguide. co.uk/dog-friendly). It is also a good idea to check the signage once you arrive.

Before you take your dog for a good run-around at the seaside, learn about how you can prepare them for the beach, so they stay safe while having fun.

If your dog has not mastered the art of recall, keep them on a lead. Long training leads will give your dog the freedom to explore while helping to keep them safe.

If you are visiting the beach on a hot or humid day, it is important to know how to cool down a dog. They can find it di cult to cope in hot weather and are more at risk of heatstroke than humans.

Here are a few tips for cooling down your dog at the beach:

Choose a good time: Take your trip in the morning or evening, when it is cooler. If it is a hot day, avoid the strong midday sun. Dogs cannot regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken in hot weather. If dogs are too hot and cannot reduce their body temperature enough, they may develop heatstroke which can be fatal.

straight away. Do not put yourself at risk by going into the water after them.

⚫ If you are planning a paddle with your dog, check the tides beforehand – you do not want to get stranded! Tide times and heights fluctuate throughout the month, so an area that was accessible throughout the day last week may get completely cut o today. And do not go in the water if the waves look big or choppy.

Take a dip: If your dog can swim or tread water, take them for a quick splash in the sea to help them cool down. If your dog is older, or has joint issues, stay in shallow water – you do not want them to get too cold. Di erent breeds of dogs react di erently to water, so do some research first. And for peace of mind, you could always get your dog a brightly coloured flotation device or lifejacket!

Bring water: Pack a water bowl and plenty of fresh water to keep your pet well-hydrated. Salty seawater can make dogs ill, so make sure they do not drink it. Also keep a close eye on them to make sure they are not eating anything they should not, such as seaweed or plastic. Call the local vet if they do. Provide shade: If it is a sunny day and you are spending hours on the sand, consider bringing a pop-up tent or an umbrella for your dog so they can stay cool in the shade.

Do not forget sunscreen: Dogs are also at risk of getting sunburnt, especially on their noses, ears and any exposed areas of skin. Apply a dogfriendly sunscreen to your pooch’s ears and nose 30 minutes before you hit the beach to keep them safe from the sun. Ask your vet for advice if needed. Take it easy: Once you are on the sand, do not exercise your dog too much –overexertion on a hot day could cause heatstroke or dehydration. Be mindful of how long you are spending on the sand – if your dog is panting or looking tired, take them home.

Why not treat your pet to something from the

every purchase will help the RNLI save lives

are a few ideas… to

Make sure the sand is not too hot: Dogs love spending time in the sand, digging and exploring. But before you take your dog on the beach, check that the sand is not too hot. If you can stand on it comfortably barefoot then it should be ok for them too.

You will find more tips for keeping your dog safe at the beach on the Dogs Trust website (www.dogstrust.org.uk). Remember, after a trip to the beach, give your dog’s coat and paws a good rinse with tap water to remove any sand or salt, as it could irritate their skin.

trapped on coastal ledges and helped canines cut o by the tide.

Image: RNLI/Fethard

Fethard

rescued this sheep

RNLI shop;

at sea. Here

RNLI Stripe Dog Collar, Navy/ Red, £9

RNLI Reflective Dog Bandana, Red, £8

Devi Dolphin Recycled Pet Toy, £9

RNLI dryrobe® Dog Coat, Black/Red, £48

RNLI Dog Towel, Blue, £12

Mountain Paws Collapsible Food and Water Bowl, Red, £16 Pet Cooling Mat, £17

Explore UK Yacht Insurance

IT’S SHOW TIME

Exciting new features join returning favourites for the 56th Southampton International Boat Show.

This September the Southampton International Boat Show returns to the South Coast with a new layout, new attractions – alongside familiar favourites - and an expanded line-up of on and off-water experiences. Attracting more than 100,000 visitors every year, from serious boat buyers to watersports enthusiasts, the show is a highlight of the UK boating calendar.

“The Southampton International Boat Show is entering an exciting new era,” said Lesley Robinson, CEO British Marine. “We have reimagined the show to better meet the needs of both visitors and exhibitors - delivering more focused content, more engaging spaces and greater commercial value.”

This year’s 10-day extravaganza takes place from 19 - 28 September, and with over 600 exhibiting brands and activities for all levels it is the ultimate destination for experienced boaters and newcomers alike to discover new technologies, enhance their on-the-water skills and explore hundreds of different types of craft on Europe’s largest purpose-built show marina.

NEW FOR 2025

Always taking onboard visitor and exhibitor feedback, show organiser British Marine is continually working to improve and enhance the event, from those important small details right up to entire areas of the show. So, what can we expect to be different this year?

The first change will be immediately obvious as you enter via a new main entrance in Mayflower Park. Once inside

the show, the fresh look and feel will continue, alongside returning favourites.

Among the fresh attractions for 2025 are the new content zones that reflect the evolving priorities and passions of today’s boaters and marine consumers. Take time to explore the new dedicated area for powerboats, The Powerhub, and for those looking to hone their boating skills and learn new tips and tricks in a hands-on environment The Boating Academy is sure to be a hit with visitors.

Also debuting at Southampton this year is the Wooden Boat Stage bringing together the UK’s leading wooden boatbuilding organisations for inspiring talks, demos and workshops. Located beside the main entrance of the show, in the Explore Boating area, the Wooden Boat Stage will be housed in a striking, purpose-built setting, with an entrance shaped like the frame of an upturned wooden boat.

When you want to take a break from exploring the show, as well as places like Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, there is a Waterside Lounge for premium ticket holders, which will be a stylish space to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Premium ticket holders also receive a number of other benefits such as fast track entry, welcome drink on arrival, fresh pastries (between 10am and 11am) and hot drinks all day.

Always one of the stars of the show, the marina offers on-water attractions and sea trials, along with hundreds of craft. An evolved layout with boats grouped by type will make it easy for visitors to find specific types of craft.

“We trialled a more zonal approach to our showcase marina last year, and the feedback from both exhibitors and guests was overwhelmingly positive. The new layout ensures that motor yachts, sailboats, demo boats and luxury motor yachts each have dedicated space, making them easier

to find and improving the overall visitor experience,” explained Jasmine Hill, Event Director at British Marine.

Yachting Ventures, meanwhile, is launching the Innovation Zone which, from 24 – 28 September, will host 12 selected startups developing solutions for the marine industry.

Jasmine Hill said: “The Innovation Zone adds an exciting new dimension for 2025. By bringing early-stage companies into the heart of the show, we are not only giving them valuable exposure but also connecting our visitors with fresh ideas and technologies that have the potential to shape the future of the industry. It is a great example of how collaboration can open new doors for businesses and inspire the next generation of marine innovation.”

BACK AGAIN

All the classic, much-loved features of the Southampton International Boat Show will be returning too. These include the Try a Boat experience with FlexiSail, the Dive Tank with Andark and the chance to have a go at paddleboarding and kayaking with Rockley Watersports.

Also back in Southampton are marine accessibility champions, Wetwheels, who will be offering disabled people powerboat rides. Other feature boats at the show include Thunder Child II and HMS Blazer (P279).

Back on land at the On The Water stage, set within the marina, visitors can enjoy another thrilling programme including jet ski stunts from champion Jack Moule.

You can also ‘shop ‘til you drop’ with the many nautical clothing brands, accessories, gadgets and other chandlery available in retail areas across the show.

Hear from the voices shaping the marine world, including record-breaking sailors, ocean conservationists and boating experts, live in The Cockpit, The Boating Academy and The Wooden Boat Stage.

Sailing legend and Clipper Ventures co-founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, for example, shares his iconic story of adventure, resilience and survival at sea, plus look out for Conrad Humphreys, triple round-the-world yachtsman, Nicky Vaux – The Boat Princess and many more.

Lastly, a huge hit, the show’s returning festival zone, The Shipyard will keep the good vibes flowing with live music, latenight Saturdays, family-friendly fun and a selection of gourmet street food.

Turn the page to find out more about this year’s attractions, events, craft, kit, accessories and much more…

INFORMATION

n 19 – 28 September

n Mayflower Park, Southampton

The postcode for the show is SO14 2AS and will take you to the area of the show entrance.

n 19 September: 10:00 – 18:00

n 20 September: 10:00 – 18:00 (21:00 Shipyard)

n 21 – 26 September: 10:00 –18:00 / trade entry from 9:30am Monday – Thursday n 27 September: 10:00 – 18:00 (21:00 Shipyard)

n 28 September: 09:30 – 16:30

Dogs are permitted into the show. However, access onto the marina, New Wave Hall and catering areas will be significantly restricted at busy times.

There are 4,000 parking spaces split between the Westquay multistorey and Podium car park, which are a five minute walk from the show’s entrance.

You can use discount code

AASSIBS2025 to buy a standard ticket for any day of the Southampton International Boat Show for just £24.

Make it a family day out – children aged 15 and under get complimentary entry with a paying adult.

Premium Ticket: from £149

To purchase tickets and keep up-to-date with all the latest news, announcements and information about this year’s Southampton International Boat Show, visit www.southamptonboatshow.com.

Image: Paul Wyeth

Image: Paul Wyeth

Image: Martin Allen Photography

OUT & ABOUT

Alongside hundreds of exhibitors and boats and watercraft of all shapes and sizes, the show offers a unique blend of family entertainment, opportunities to get afloat and the chance to join expert-led talks and hands-on workshops, making it an unmissable event in the marine calendar.

This year’s show sees a new layout, the return of muchloved features, exciting new attractions and an expanded line-up of on and off-water experiences. With plenty of interactive zones, watersports and child-friendly demonstrations, the show offers a fantastic way to ignite a love of

boating and the sea in visitors of all ages. It promises to be an unmissable experience for marine enthusiasts to buy their dream boat, discover new technologies, enhance their on-thewater skills, shop for the latest kit and gadgets and get inspired by the incredible range of boats on display at the purpose-built show marina.

GET AFLOAT

Paddleboarding, kayaking and dinghy sailing sessions are available throughout the show with kit provided and expert support on hand. It is the perfect chance to try something new, enjoy a different view of the event or build on your watersports confidence. Bring a towel — they will take care of the rest. Book your session on the day at the lake booking point (spaces are limited). Get Afloat with Rockley Watersports is included in the price of admission.

TRY A BOAT

One of the show’s most popular attractions, Try a Boat with FlexiSail offers you the chance to take to the water on a wide range of sailing yachts and motor cruisers, free of charge. FlexiSail’s expert team will be on hand to guide novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike, offering top-tier equipment and ensuring a safe environment for all.

As part of the line-up, Wetwheels returns for another year to share their fully accessible boat. Giving disabled and disadvantaged people of all ages the chance to experience the water and even take to the helm under the highly qualified supervision of their instructors.

The Try a Boat line-up also includes Team Endeavour Racing (Friday/ Saturday/Sunday) and a Clipper 70 (each Saturday and Sunday at 1pm). Other craft are a Axopar 37XC, Hanse 348, Brabus Line Axopar 28 Cabin and a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 ‘Dragon’.

THE DIVE TANK

Included with your ticket as well, the Dive Tank is brought to the show again by scuba specialists, Andark. With all equipment and changing facilities provided, complete beginners can experience diving for the first time under expert guidance, whilst seasoned PADI pros can test out the very latest kit and improve their underwater skills.

ON THE WATER STAGE

For high-octane spectator thrills, the On The Water stage, set within the show’s marina, will once again showcase a stunt programme to captivate audiences of all ages. Starring Jack Moule, Team Endeavour Racing and Jet Surf, performances run Friday to Sunday over both weekends, with 25-minute shows at 11:30, 13:30 and 15:30. On 27 September, the action starts early at 11:00, and on 28 September, the grand finale will be at 15:00. As well as Try A Boat, Team Endeavour Racing will be demonstrating their powerboat racing skills at the Onthe-Water Stage and sharing inspiring stories about their work with veterans.

MARINA

The show’s marina, which offers on-water attractions and sea trials, will showcase around 300 vessels of all styles and sizes. With its clearly defined zones for different boat types, it is easy to explore and find exactly what you are looking for.

From the world’s most prestigious sailing boats and powerboats to high-end tenders and chase boats, the marina caters for every boating enthusiast’s dream and it remains one of the event’s must-see attractions with three-quarters of visitors making a point to visit.

FEATURE BOATS

Thunder Child II: This 22m high-speed vessel, named after the fictional torpedo ram in H.G. Wells’ novel The War of the Worlds, has conquered six global records and is built to withstand some of the toughest sea conditions. It has a top speed of 54 knots, which is also the name of its operating crew.

54 Knots team leader Nick Ogden said: “We are excited to share Thunder Child II in all her glory in Southampton International Boat Show’s marina. The whole 54 Knots crew, supported by Performance Marine Group, is preparing to share our life at sea with visitors, show them onboard and give them real insight into the world of competitive global endurance racing.”

HMS Blazer (P279): This Archer Class Fast Patrol Boat, based in Portsmouth and built for the Royal Navy, has trained across the globefrom home waters to the Arctic Circle.

Wetwheels: Marine accessibility champions, Wetwheels will be offering disabled people exhilarating powerboat rides in a safe, supported and inclusive environment.

Clipper 70: This yacht debuted in the Clipper 2013-14 Race and is built for 40,000nm. Step aboard, meet the crew and do not miss the rare chance to get out on the water – sailing trips are planned for 1pm on both Saturdays and Sundays. Bookings will be taken on the day at the Try-A-Boat booking station next to the lake.

Falcon Multispark: The British Power Boat Racing Club is bringing the Falcon Multispark to The Powerhub. This 42ft Fountain, owned by Throttleman Dean Stoneman, has won the 2024 CowesTorquay-Cowes and is powered by two Mercury engines that can deliver up to 1600hp.

Landing Craft F8: Landing Craft F8 has been transformed to mark 25 years since the lifting of the ban on gay people serving in the UK Armed Forces. The first time in British history a war vessel has been wrapped in Pride colours.

Image: Martin Allen Photography

Image: Martin Allen Photography

Image: Paul Wyeth

NEW! THE POWERHUB

New to the show, the Powerhub will be showcasing powerboats, engines, personal watercraft, water toys and technology, and will feature talks from experts on performance, safety and the latest gear. It will also host The Cockpit, a new stage celebrating the best in speed, innovation and marine engineering, with performance boating taking centre stage. Whether looking for a leisure cruiser, a fishing boat or something more sporty, you will be able to browse a fantastic selection of RIBs and high-performance craft from wellknown brands such as Highfield Boats, Sea-Doo, Smartliner Boats, Volvo Penta and Williams Jet Tenders..

NEW! WOODEN BOAT STAGE

Traditional wooden boatbuilding faces mounting pressure from an ageing workforce and dwindling training routes. The Wooden Boat Stage, in the Explore Boating area, represents a bold statement of optimism.

From showcasing boats built using centuries-old methods to modern sustainable construction, the stage will demonstrate how the craft of wooden boatbuilding is evolving to meet contemporary challenges.

The Wooden Boat Stage unites the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association, the Boat Building Academy and Women in Boatbuilding, showcasing the craft through talks, demonstrations and handson workshops, all highlighting the enduring value and exciting future of wooden boatbuilding.

Belinda Joslin, of Women in Boatbuilding, said: “For Women in Boatbuilding, the Wooden Boat Stage is more than just the stage, it is positioning our organisation and diversity at the heart of the industry. Our goal has been to create a fun stage that showcases the amazing people and talent in our UK industry. We are delighted that we are making it happen!”

For the full line-up and daily schedule see www.southamptonboatshow. com/the-wooden-boat-stage

NEW! THE BOATING ACADEMY

The Boating Academy, also in the Explore Boating area, is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned boaters, o ering expert advice, skill-building sessions and insider tips from marine professionals. Join expert-led talks and hands-on workshops designed to build confidence and sharpen techniques, whatever your experience.

Speakers include The Green Blue, who will explore how kit and equipment used in boating and watersports can be reused, repaired or recycled.

Also on the stage will be members of The Clipper Race team; learn about the training, the race, the yachts and more. You can hear from sailing legend and founder of the Clipper Round the World

Yacht Race Sir Robin Knox-Johnston too. He will be joined by Clipper Race Director Dale Smyth, as they talk about how the race began, the reality of racing around the world with a nonprofessional crew and why adventure and personal challenge is more relevant today than ever before.

Other highlights include triple roundthe-world sailor Conrad Humphreys who will be telling the story behind The Bounty Project, where he and eight crew members recreated Captain Bligh’s 4,000-mile voyage across the South Pacific.

Tom Herbert-Evans from SailGP, meanwhile, will be exploring how foiling has transformed modern sailing. Look out for boatfolk’s James Conroy too, as he shares his passion for helping fellow boaters.

Geo Holt MBE, record-breaking sailor and founder of Wetwheels, will share how inclusive access to the sea transforms lives, empowering disabled people through adventure, independence and maritime connection.

And, of course, our very own David Henshall will take to the stage on 26 September! He will be taking you on a captivating journey through the rich and fascinating history of the RYA as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.

For the full line-up and daily schedule see www.southamptonboatshow. com/the-boating-academy

NEW! INNOVATION ZONE

The UK is rapidly cementing its position as a hub for marine innovation, with multi-million-pound government funding programmes supporting clean propulsion, smart shipping and sustainable port technology.

Combined with the nation’s rich maritime heritage, world-class boatbuilding expertise and a thriving leisure marine market, this creates a fertile launchpad for startups aiming to scale internationally.

The Innovation Zone, a dedicated platform to showcase the next generation of marine innovation, is part of a wider collaboration between British Marine and Yachting Ventures. The Innovation Zone will host 12 startups developing solutions for the marine industry, from sustainability and digital technologies to safety innovations and recreational boating products.

TIME TO RELAX

THE SHIPYARD

At The Shipyard you can enjoy live music, open until 9pm on Saturdays, plus indulge in an array of gourmet street food with a refreshing beverage. Family-friendly fun is guaranteed to keep the good vibes flowing.

There will be daily performances from a mix of musicians and entertainers with highlights including BBC Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills (below), who will be bringing his DJ set to the show on Saturday 20 September, followed by an Elton John Tribute by Charles Michael Duke and Flash – A Queen Tribute Band on Saturday 27 September.

The show’s music programme also features the Southampton Salty Sea Dogs, the HMS Collingwood Marching Band in support of the show’s charity of the year – the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity – and the Southampton Rock Choir, along with many more acts. Check out the daily line-up of DJs and acts at www.southamptonboatshow.com/shipyard

FOOD AND DRINK

New! Chefs Ahoy!: With opportunities to taste, learn, shop and engage with chefs and producers, The Chefs Ahoy! stage is the ideal place to take a break from browsing boats and immerse yourself in the culinary side of sailing.

The Rustic Chef, Martin Dawkins, will be giving daily demonstrations on the Chefs Ahoy! stage, showing clever ways to cook onboard no matter your galley setup. Making its debut within the show’s new Boating Academy, Martin will showcase a variety of seafaring recipes; visitors will also have the chance to purchase the products featured during the demos.

Also joining the line-up is Joshie Man (Josh Harris), a young autistic chef who communicates non-verbally and shares his passion for cooking through the campaign Let Them Have Their Voices, led by his father. Joshie now travels across the UK, learning from top chefs and sharing simple, delicious recipes.

Chefs Ahoy! will also serve as a spotlight for a selection of local South Coast producers. For the full line-up and daily schedule see www.southamptonboatshow.com/chefs-ahoy

“Life aboard a boat means that cooking needs to be practical – but that does not mean it cannot be beautiful,” Martin said. “With a compact grill or a two-burner stove, you can create meals that are full of life and flavour.

Gabbi Richardson, Founder of Yachting Ventures, said: “The Innovation Zone is designed to give emerging companies a powerful platform to connect with the industry, test ideas and accelerate their growth in a thriving market.”

Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant: Located on the waterfront with views across Southampton Water, the terrace at the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy the show. With expansive open decking and plenty of indoor seating, it is ideal for a meal, a drink or simply watching the action on the On The Water Stage.

Centrally located within the show and positioned as a ‘pop-up’ from 24 – 28 September, the Innovation Zone will provide high visibility for these early-stage companies, positioning them alongside established brands and industry leaders.

The ‘Chefs Ahoy!’ stage will also feature the Good Evans Kitchen, an awardwinning cookery school based in Hampshire, plus Jay Geddes and Gary Morton Jones, otherwise known as the Dishy Dads, with their groan-worthy

Guinness Bar: To wash it all down, the Guinness Bar, sponsored by HSB Technical Ltd, will keep your drinks topped up and spirits high throughout the day.

The Shipyard: As mentioned, at The Shipyard you can treat yourself to gourmet street food and a cool (or hot!) drink.

Waterside Lounge: The show is also introducing a new Waterside Lounge hospitality area for premium ticket holders. The Lounge will provide a place to relax and soak up the atmosphere in between exploring the show. Enjoy delicious food, premium drinks and some of the best views at the show overlooking the show’s marina and On the Water Stage.

Image: Martin Allen Photography

puns and terrible dance moves.

Image: Paul Wyeth

At The Shipyard you

WHAT’S ON!

A round-up of some of the events, awards, competitions and more taking place during this year’s show.

WOMEN IN MARINE

Women in Marine returns to the show with a new day, time and location.

Taking place on 24 September at the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant, the popular panel and networking event is designed to inspire, connect and grow the community of women within the marine industry. It offers attendees the chance to engage in meaningful discussions, gain valuable industry insights and expand their professional networks.

The theme for this year’s event‘Diverse Talent in Action: Leadership, Representation and Career Progression in the Marine Industry’ - will see the panel take an in-depth look at how women in unique and specialist roles are shaping the industry, with a focus on leadership growth, sector representation and confidencebuilding in business environments.

Hosted by Nicky Vaux, known to many as The Boat Princess, an industry champion, podcast host and co-owner of Australia’s Empire Marinas Group, the panel includes Captain Claire Thompson – Commanding Officer, Aircraft Carrier - HMS Queen Elizabeth; Sarah Donohue - Marine Stuntwoman, Powerboat Champion, Conservationist, Speaker; Claire Abraham - HR Officer, Navico Group (Brunswick Corporation)

CHARITY OF THE YEAR

The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity is the official Charity of the Year for 2025.

As the principal charity of the Royal Navy, RNRMC exists to support sailors, marines and their families, for life. With a strong focus on making a meaningful difference, the charity is driven by service, support and integrity - values that closely align with the spirit of the show.

Sam Nicholson MBE, Interim CEO, RNRMC, said: “Being the charity partner for the Southampton International Boat Show is an absolute honour for Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity. We are incredibly proud to be part of such a prestigious event that celebrates

and Kate O’Sullivan – Joint Managing Director and Owner, ADPR.

Following the panel discussion, guests are invited to enjoy refreshments and informal networking.

Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said: “Women in Marine continues to be a vital platform for celebrating and supporting women in our industry. We are excited to bring together an incredible panel of inspirational female leaders who are shaping the future of our sector.”

The event is open to all genders and offers an excellent opportunity to

the very best of the UK’s maritime heritage.

“It provides a unique and high-profile opportunity for us to raise awareness of the vital work we do in supporting sailors, marines and their families, both serving and veterans. The show allows us to engage directly with the maritime community, share the stories that matter and generate essential funds that enable us to continue delivering lifechanging support.” RNRMC will host an interactive stand packed with activities for all ages. Visitors can take part in pop-up sustainability workshops and children can learn about environmental impact through fun, hands-on sessions led by the Royal Navy’s dedicated

support the progression and visibility of women across the marine sector.

This year, Women in Marine joins forces with its sister event, Women in the Marine Industry International, to support Room to Read, a global nonprofit dedicated to ending illiteracy and gender inequality. Through its Girls’ Education Program, Room to Read equips young women with the skills, mentorship and resources they need to complete their education and open doors to new opportunities, empowering them to build brighter, more independent futures.

To donate: www.roomtoread.org

sustainability team. RNRMC Mascots - Toots and Boots - will delight families across both weekends and during school visit days.

The RNRMC team will also host sessions and Q&As on leadership through adversity, featuring World Record holding adventurer Aldo Kane, members of the HMS Oardacious ocean rowing team and the Royal Navy Sustainability Lead.

In addition, visitors will be

able to shop for bespoke upcycled items made from recycled Royal Navy life rafts at the RMRNC stand throughout the show.

The Royal Naval Volunteer Band of HMS Collingwood will be in attendance on 27 September with a live musical performance and traditional marching displays.

You can show your support by adding a voluntary donation to the RNRMC when booking your show ticket.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Southampton International Boat Show returns with renewed focus on environmental responsibility.

As part of its continued commitment to sustainability, the show is taking new steps to support exhibitors in reducing their environmental impact and embedding sustainable practices into their show presence.

Central to this commitment are two key initiatives: the well-established Environmental Award, which continues to recognise outstanding sustainability efforts among exhibitors, and the launch of a Carbon Offsetting Scheme. These initiatives build upon the principles set out in the show’s Environmental Charter, supporting its journey towards a more sustainable future and encouraging the industry to take proactive, measurable steps in driving positive environmental change.

The new voluntary carbon offsetting scheme, delivered in partnership with Yacht Carbon Offset, has been designed to enable exhibitors to quantify and offset the carbon footprint of their show participation including stand build, travel and accommodation.

Proceeds from the carbon offset scheme will support a reputable carbon reduction project in a developing country, selected by British Marine in conjunction with Yacht Carbon Offset.

“The carbon offsetting scheme provides a simple way for exhibitors to take accountability for their carbon emissions,” explained Rachel Goult, Managing Director at Yacht Carbon Offset. “The data collected helps British Marine monitor the show’s overall footprint and allows exhibitors to benchmark and improve year-on-year.”

Carbon offsetting is not a substitute for emission reduction, but a complementary step that allows organisations to take responsibility for the emissions they cannot yet eliminate. All exhibitors are encouraged to take part in the Carbon Offsetting Scheme. However, for those who wish to enter the Environmental Award, participation in the scheme is mandatory.

The Environmental Award returns, celebrating exhibitors who go above and beyond in integrating sustainability into both their presence at the show and their wider business operations. The award highlights companies that lead by example — demonstrating innovation, accountability and a genuine commitment to reducing their environmental impact. The winner will be announced on 19 September on the Boating Academy Stage at 4pm.

Visitors to the show can also expect talks, interactive exhibits and educational activities from exhibitors designed to promote sustainability awareness within the boating community.

TYHA AWARDS CEREMONY

Boaters and berth holders around the world have been nominating their favourite TYHA Gold Anchor accredited marinas and outstanding marina professionals for the TYHA Marina Awards 2025, anchored by Haven Knox-Johnston.

Celebrating excellence across the marina industry, these awards shine a spotlight on those going above and

beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences, environmental excellence and exceptional service across the global network of TYHA-accredited marinas. The winners will be announced during a TYHA Awards Ceremony at the show on 24 September at 4pm on the Boating Academy Stage, followed by the annual TYHA stand party, sponsored by IGY Marinas.

Image: UK MOD Crown Copyright 2025

Image: Paul Wyeth

ARDENT TRAINING

SUPERYACHT UK YOUNG DESIGNER COMPETITION

The 2025 Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition, sponsored by LA Marine, is back and bolder than ever.

Taking place over two days at the show, this competition is a high-profile platform for the next generation of talent to shine. Open to Masters students and 2nd/3rd-year university students, this Superyacht UK initiative is all about nurturing the future of the industry - giving emerging designers the opportunity to be seen, celebrated and inspired. Competitors will receive a live

LOOK TO THE SKIES

An RAF flypast involving two Spitfires will take place on 20 September (at 4.20pm), to mark both the 80th anniversary of VE Day and the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

design brief, after which they will have just over a day to create a hand-drawn superyacht concept.

Their final designs will then be presented to a panel of expert judges, comprising some of the most influential figures in the superyacht industry. Winners of previous editions have gone on to secure roles with some of the most respected superyacht design studios in the world.

Last year’s winner in the 2nd/3rd Year category, Kasper Marriott said: “Regardless of the outcome, you will gain valuable experience. The competition

The flypast, planned specifically for the show, will feature two Spitfires from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Fleet. The BBMF has five Supermarine Sptfires – a 1940 MK IIa (the only surviving flying Spitfire from the Battle of Britain), a MK Vb, a clipped-wing MK XVI and two photo-reconnaissance PR MKXIXs.  These ‘warbirds’ were stationed in Southampton throughout the 1930s and

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

As part of the Southampton International Boat Show, British Marine is once again presenting the Apprentice of the Year Award – recognising one exceptional apprentice who is making a real difference in their role, company and across the sector.

Now in its second year, this prestigious award celebrates dedication, resilience, innovation and impact. Winning the Apprentice of the Year Award is more than just a title – it is a celebration of potential, passion and future leadership. The award brings industry-wide recognition and provides a platform to showcase talent.

The winner will be announced on 23 September during the Apprentice Recognition Ceremony. At the ceremony apprentices across all marine pathways, from boatbuilders to business administrators, engineers to events assistants, will be recognised for their hard work and achievements. Around 100 apprentices from leading companies across the sector will be presented with their certificates in front of peers, industry leaders and special guests.

TAKE THE TEAMO TRAIL

Show visitors are invited to take part in the TeamO Trail, an interactive competition running daily, with prizes up for grabs.

Participants will be challenged to find 10 creatively dressed TeamO mannequins positioned around the show. You will be looking out for anything from 80s neon to camouflaged angler, pirate to builder, all displaying a colour and a letter.

Trail-goers must note down the corresponding numbers with coloured box, then via QR code submit their completed forms to be entered into the daily prize draw.

Collect your entry form as you arrive and at designated points around the show, and get spotting!

NEW PARTNERSHIP TO BE ANNOUNCED AT SHOW

At the show PSA Prime Marine, which specialises in maintaining, refitting and managing yachts, will be unveiling a new collaboration with Cerashield, a leader in surface protection technologies for the marine industry.

By combining PSA Prime Marine’s expertise in yacht care and project management with Cerashield’s advanced technology, yacht owners will have access to a comprehensive package that not only improves aesthetics and performance but also extends the lifespan of their vessels.

“Our collaboration with Cerashield represents a real step forward in how we can help our clients protect and enjoy their yachts,” said Su Stirling, Co-Director of PSA Prime Marine.

“These coatings provide long-term benefits in terms of protection, efficiency and environmental responsibility, and we are delighted

Image: Martin Allen Photography

allows you to showcase your work to industry professionals and opens doors into the superyacht sector, which is an exciting field full of opportunities.”

1940s, each with a remarkable wartime history and surviving against all odds. Also not to be missed, the worldfamous Red Devils, the British Army’s official parachute display team, are set to make a dramatic show entrance on 27 September at midday (weather permitting).

to be showcasing this innovation at the show.”

To celebrate the collaboration, PSA Prime Marine and Cerashield will host an exclusive drinks and canapés reception at PSA Prime Marine’s stand on 19 September from 4-6pm. This will give visitors the chance to hear more about why PSA Prime Marine chose to collaborate with Cerashield. In addition, visitors to the stand can enter a prize draw to win a luxury hamper filled with fine wine and a selection of premium yacht maintenance products.

Ardent Training will be playing an even bigger role at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show. Not only will they be running their main stand, but they will also be manning an additional stand dedicated entirely to helping everyone find out how they can get started on the water. Whether you are brand new to sailing or simply curious about what it takes to take your first

TRADE TUESDAY

Trade Tuesday returns with a morning of expert insights, inspiring innovation and networking opportunities. The event will once again bring together boatbuilders, brokers, marina managers, suppliers and service providers from across the industry.

Lyndsay McClay, Chair, British Marine South & British Marine President Elect, said: “Trade Tuesday is a fantastic opportunity for the industry to come together, share knowledge and explore how we can grow stronger collectively. Whether you are a seasoned business leader or new to the sector, there is something here for everyone.”

ADVANCED RIGGING & HYDRAULICS

Hamble-based rigging specialist, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics has announced a new partnership with World Cruising Club – leading organiser of sailing rallies designed for the average cruising boat and crew, including the internationally renowned ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers).

As well as organising a portfolio of annual ocean sailing rallies, World Cruising

CAREERS AND APPRENTICESHIP EVENING

The British Marine Careers & Apprenticeship Evening takes place on 23 September at the Voco Southampton by IHG (previously the Holiday Inn), 4-7pm.

This evening gives the chance to meet faceto-face with leading marine employers, training providers and organisations helping people of all ages and backgrounds launch their maritime careers. From marine engineering and boatbuilding to sailing, hospitality, logistics and more, there is a sea of opportunity to explore.

The event offers tailored insights for students, career changers, teachers and parents alike. You will have the chance to ask questions, hear inspiring real-life stories and learn about the day-to-day roles across the sector – from engineering and boat

steps afloat, their team will be on hand with guidance, resources and expert advice to point you in the right direction. They will also be giving talks on the Main Stage, where they will be sharing insights into RYA courses, qualifications and the different pathways open to aspiring sailors.

It is a fantastic opportunity to explore how training can unlock new adventures on the water.

The event takes place in the British Marine Trade Lounge (8am – 12pm) on 23 September; this industry event is free to attend and is open to all marine professionals (register your place).

Club offers practical support for those planning an ocean voyage.

As a Preferred Supplier to World Cruising Club, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics will provide expert advice and comprehensive rigging services to World Cruising Club members and its wider bluewater sailing community.

Part of the Ancasta Group, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics is led by veteran rigger and Managing Director, Neil Brinsdon, who said: “Having been an advisor to ARC and other rally participants for many years, becoming World Cruising Club’s Preferred Supplier for rigging is a unique endorsement of our expertise.” To celebrate this new collaboration, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics will host a launch event on 20 September at 4pm on their stand. All World Cruising Club members and Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics customers are invited to attend.

design to sailing, customer service, logistics and marine operations.

Manj Mahey, Training Manager at British Marine, said:

“This event provides a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the variety of exciting career paths available in the marine industry. Whether you are exploring your first job or looking for a fresh start, you will come away from the evening with real knowledge, useful contacts and the confidence to take the next step.”

There is no age limit to attending the free evening event and all attendees will receive a complimentary ticket to the Southampton International Boat Show, valid for any day between 24 – 28 September.

For more information and to register your interest: www.britishmarine.co.uk/events/southamptoninternational-boat-show/discover-your-futuremarine-industry

Image: Southampton International Boat Show

BOATS GALORE

Expect exclusive showcases, UK and international debuts, and an unmissable 10 days on the waterfront.

WORLD DEBUTS!

■ Dufour 48

■ Speedcat

■ Mini Fisher 450 Classic

■ Orkney Pilothouse 27

■ Orkney Dayangler 19+

EUROPEAN DEBUTS!

■ Sea Ray 250 SDX

■ Gemini 1060 Cabin RIB

■ FA Brave Heart 100 Smart Electric Motorboat

■ Viknes 10

UK DEBUTS!

■ Bayliner C21

■ Fountaine Pajot 41

■ Poseidon Blu Water 185

■ Grand Banks 54

■ Hallberg-Rassy 69

■ Jomo 300

■ Lagoon 38

■ Parker 790 Explorer

■ Parker Sorrento 100

■ Rodman 790 Ventura CC

■ Sa er Yachts SE27 Leisure

■ Sa er Yachts SE33 Life

■ Bavaria C46

■ Bavaria SR41 Coupe

■ Bavaria SR35 HT

■ Bavaria Vida 33

■ Protagon 20

Whatever your boating, you will find it at the Southampton International Boat Show. Whether that is exploring boats, finding out about training, getting on the water, listening to expert talks, finding a sailing club or researching insurance and finance, the show is packed with people who love helping people get afloat, in whichever way they choose. For those new to boating, the Boating Academy is a dedicated space

designed for newcomers where you can get tips from the pros, attend short how-to sessions and ask all those important questions. Plus, exhibitors throughout the show will be delighted to chat and share their expertise. A huge number of visitors visit the show’s purposebuilt marina, and it remains one of the event’s must-see attractions and is where you will find an incredible array of boats, but there will be plenty of craft to discover throughout the show too. And if you are thinking of buying a boat, you will not be alone.

SUNSEEKER

Sunseeker will be showcasing a range of yachts that reflect the brand’s British heritage and global reputation for innovation and luxury. As a proudly British builder, Southampton holds special significance for Sunseeker.

Sunseeker CEO Andrea Frabetti said: “This is our home show and an unmissable opportunity for UK customers to experience an extensive selection of our models up close, meet our expert team and even pay a visit to our Poole shipyard to see first-hand where these remarkable yachts are crafted and perfected. It is a rare chance to truly meet the makers and understand the passion and skill behind every Sunseeker.”

Sunseeker has curated an ‘on-the-water experience’ for visitors to see as much of the range as possible. This year’s line-up will include: Manhattan 55, Predator 55 (launched at Cannes 2024), 65 Sport Yacht, Manhattan 68 (featuring a redesigned layout and interior, revealed at boot Düsseldorf 2025), 75 Predator, 76 Yacht, Ocean 156 (launched at Southampton 2024) and 90 Ocean.

PERFORMANCE MARINE GROUP

Performance Marine Group will unveil a world debut of the Rascal, a first of its kind carbon fibre dinghy from its specialist division Performance Sailcraft.

Crafted for high-performance sailors who demand excellence, the Rascal has been precision-engineered to excel under pressure and deliver an unmatched sailing experience. Its lightweight carbon construction and aerodynamic profile reflect PMG’s mission to push boundaries and evolve the future of marine sport.

“What makes the Rascal truly unique is its DNA,” said PMG Chairman Nick Ogden. “Drawing directly from the innovation and engineering excellence of our Powercraft division, the Rascal benefits from insights gained through the development of Thunder Child II - our World Record holding endurance powerboat. This cross-division collaboration has resulted in a sailing dinghy that applies advanced materials, hydrodynamic e ciencies and structural design principles typically reserved for o shore endurance vessels.”

Around 25,000 visitors come specifically to buy a boat or gather purchase information, with 71 per cent planning to buy within the next 18 months. Even if you are not buying a boat, though, there is still plenty of shopping happening; over one-third are looking to purchase boat parts and accessories*.

Whether you are buying, researching or just looking around, over the next two pages we have a taster of some of the craft you will come across this year. *according to independent research from Zing

ARGO YACHTING

View the fantastic display of Galeon Yachts and Pardo Yachts on the marina at Argo Yachting’s newly designed pontoon and hospitality suite. The six yacht line-up features two craft from Pardo Yachts and four from Galeon Yachts.

The Pardo GT52 is positioned between the Walkaround and Endurance range, appealing to those owners seeking more space and comfort than current walkaround models without sacrificing performance, while the Pardo 38 combines performance, practicality and style, o ering a spacious interior with modern design and comfort, ideal for easy and safe handling.

Galeon Yachts is renowned for its groundbreaking design innovations, redefining luxury and functionality in the yachting industry thanks to Tony Castro Yacht Design. With a focus on maximising onboard space and enhancing the connection between passengers and the water, Galeon has introduced a range of cuttingedge features, including ‘Beach Mode’, drop-down balconies, carousel cockpit seating and Skydeck electric roofs. At the show visitors can view the Galeon 560 Fly, 510 Skydeck, 440 Fly and 410 HTC.

The Argo Yachting team will be on hand to guide you, whether that is new yachts from Galeon or Pardo or pre-loved yachts across many well-known brands, retrofit and refurbishment, service and maintenance, finance and insurance.

Insights

Galeon 560 Fly

510 Skydeck

410 HTC

440 Fly

Pardo 38

Image: Harry Tiger | Tiger Co

Image: Harry Tiger | Tiger Co

ANCASTA

Ancasta returns to the Southampton International Boat Show with a handpicked fleet of new motorboats, sailing yachts and multihulls - including UK premieres from Prestige Yachts and Lagoon Catamarans. On display will be:

Prestige Motor Yachts: Explore the latest F-Line yachts, designed for open-plan living with expansive panoramic views - including the UK debut of the F5.7. Also on display is the Prestige M48 motor multihull, which delivers impressive space and comfort for its size.

Lagoon Catamarans: Making its first appearance in the UK, the new Lagoon 38 is poised to become a standout model in the Lagoon range. Designed for relaxed, stress-free cruising, it features a spacious layout and safe, easy access - making it a perfect choice for family adventures.

Beneteau Power: From leisurely weekend getaways to extended cruising, the Beneteau Power range o ers a motor yacht for every journey. On show in Southampton is the versatile Swift Trawler line, known for its reliable sea-keeping abilities, comfort and performance - ideal for family adventures.

Beneteau Sail: Whether you are after a relaxed cruise or an exhilarating race, Beneteau’s sailing yachts deliver

memorable experiences for all. Visitors can explore the Beneteau Oceanis range - perfect for shorthanded sailing - or enjoy the spacious luxury of the Oceanis Yacht 54.

Contest Yachts: Blending advanced construction techniques with classic craftsmanship, Contest Yachts creates luxury performance bluewater cruisers.

SAFFIER YACHTS

Sa er Yachts are bringing the SE 24 Lite, SE 27 Leisure and SE 33 Life to Southampton. The Sa er Elegance range is designed for those who seek the perfect balance between performance sailing and ultimate comfort.

Whether you choose the lightweight agility of the Se 24 Lite, the versatility

On display this year is the multi-awardwinning Contest 55CS - a previous winner of Bluewater Cruiser of the Year at the British Yachting Awards and a recipient of the European Yacht of the Year title in the Luxury Cruiser category.

More than just a boat show, this event o ers the chance to meet

Ancasta’s knowledgeable team, explore ownership options and get expert advice tailored to your boating goals – whether you are planning weekend escapes or long-distance adventures.

CONTEST YACHTS UK

Contest Yachts UK is to showcase the 17m luxury performance cruiser Contest 55CS at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show.

Designed by renowned naval architects judel/vrolijk & co, it is a previous winner of Bluewater Cruiser of the Year at the British Yachting Awards and a recipient of the European Yacht of the Year title in the Luxury Cruiser category.

“As a multi-award-winning yacht, the pedigree of the Contest 55CS speaks for itself,” said Susannah Hart, Marketing Manager at Contest Yachts UK. “Designed for short-handed, highperformance cruising, it is the ideal yacht for families or couples seeking to explore the world in comfort, safety and style.”

of the Se 27 Leisure, the sleek sophistication of the Se 33 Life or the spacious luxury of the Se 37 Lounge, you will experience e ortless control, high stability and smart deck layouts - all designed to be sailed singlehanded. The Elegance range is built to deliver relaxed, confident sailing with the space and quality to enjoy every moment onboard.

Every element of the Contest 55CS is carefully considered to enhance the o shore experience. From its stepped

RS SAILING

RS Sailing will be displaying a vibrant selection of boats from their Race, Adventure and Beach ranges. Stop by to check out exclusive special o ers, celebrate 10 years of the RS Quest and chat with the friendly team of experts to help answer all your questions.

Be among the first in the UK to see the RS Aira 22 – the newest addition to RS Sailing’s portfolio. Designed with adventure in mind, this spacious day cruiser puts comfort first, making it the perfect keelboat for families and friends looking to explore and relax on the water.

The team from RS Sailing Store will also join RS Sailing on the stand, o ering advice on chandlery parts, spares and top tips, along with exclusive show-only o ers. RS Sailors Club members can enjoy additional discounts too; you can sign-up for free.

will also find RS boats in action at multiple locations; on the water, you can Try A Boat with Rockley Watersports, who will have an RS Quest, RS Toura and the new

the show’s Lake area, you can try out a range of watersports – including sailing on a kids’ favourite single-hander, the RS Tera.

SE YACHTS

SE Yachts, the exclusive UK dealer for Arcona Yachts, Delta Powerboats and Najad Yachts, will have a line-up of three Scandinavian-built boats: the Arcona 435 Mk II, the Arcona 385 and the Delta 33 Coupé, which makes its Southampton premiere.

Arcona 435 Mk II: Winner of European Yacht of the Year 2019 in the Performance Cruiser category, the Arcona 435 has been further refined in the Mk II version, o ering enhanced interior styling and a sleek new look while preserving the yacht’s outstanding sailing performance. The 435 Mk II is equally at home on o shore passages and race circuits – combining exhilarating sailing with all the comfort you would expect from Arcona.

Arcona 385: The Arcona 385 is an all-rounder, o ering a perfect balance of performance cruising and

comfortable living aboard. Easy to handle short-handed yet rewarding to sail in all conditions, the 385 is ideal for both family cruising and spirited club racing.

Delta 33 Coupé: Making its Southampton debut, the Delta 33 Coupé represents a new generation of sport cruisers by Delta. With superior stability and fuel e ciency, robust

aft cockpit and secure forward helm positions to the spacious, evenly sized cabins below decks, the yacht has been thoughtfully crafted for liveaboard ease and seaworthiness. Custom interior configurations include two- or three-cabin layouts, with optional additions such as a workshop, study or extra storage space - perfect for longdistance cruising.

Susannah added: “Innovation is at the heart of the 55CS. Its intuitive control systems, engineering excellence and sophisticated build quality have earned its recognition as one of the most advanced yachts in its class.

“The result is a vessel that is as pleasurable to sail as it is to live onboard – it is luxury performance cruising at its best.”

PETER LEONARD MARINE

Peter Leonard Marine is the o cial UK importer of JOMO Boats, the innovative and stylish ultra compact polyethylene boats.

JOMO Boats are designed for simplicity, sustainability and fun on the water. With their minimalist Australian design, easy-to-use controls and whisper-quiet electric motors (petrol options also available), JOMO Boats o er a refreshing and modern approach to recreational boatingperfect for lakes, rivers, canals and coastal waters.

walkaround decks and a full-size retractable sunroof, the 33 Coupé is built for year-round enjoyment. Inside, the satin-finished teak interior provides a peaceful retreat, with a fully equipped galley, U-shaped dinette and panoramic visibility from the wheelhouse. Below deck, the layout o ers comfortable overnight accommodation for four.

“We are excited to bring JOMO Boats to the UK market,” said Peter Leonard, Managing Director of Peter Leonard Marine. “These boats are perfect for a new generation of boaters - environmentally conscious, designsavvy and focused on enjoyment without hassle. Whether you are

looking for a family-friendly day boat, a quiet cruiser for inland waters or a fun and flexible runabout, JOMO has something to o er.”

Available in a variety of colours and configurations, JOMO Boats are lightweight, low-maintenance and easily trailerable - making them an ideal choice for both new and experienced boaters. The electric models boast quiet operation and zero emissions, aligning perfectly with the increasing demand for sustainable outdoor leisure solutions.

You

RS CAT12

rigged up and ready to sail. Over at

Lagoon 38

Delta 33 Coupé

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

The Southampton International Boat Show brings together hundreds of leading marine brands. Anyone who loves to ‘shop ‘til they drop’ is guaranteed an array of nautical clothing, marine gadgets and other chandlery in Retail Areas across the show. Not forgetting boating holidays, insurance, finance, associations, clubs, watersports, power and so much more…

GTECHNIQ MARINE

Gtechniq Marine has unveiled a powerful new line-up of dedicated, specialist formulas tailored for RIBs, synthetic decks and vinyl surfaces.

The RIB Cleaner harnesses citrus oils and advanced agents to tackle grime, salt and stains, while remaining safe for PVC and Hypalon. Complementing it, the RIB Protector uses silicone dioxide and ceramic polymers to shield surfaces from UV damage, dirt and salt.

For synthetic decks, the Deck Cleaner lifts algae and residue without harming delicate materials, and the Deck Sealant forms a waterproof, non-slip barrier that repels stains and wear.

Onboard vinyl gets a refresh with Vinyl Cleaner, a bleach-free formula that removes embedded grime without damaging stitching. The Vinyl Protect adds a wipe-on, wipe-o layer that guards against fading, cracking and everyday wear.

Each product is available in 500ml and 5L sizes, o ering easy to apply, professional grade care for every vessel. With this launch, Gtechniq Marine continues to set the standard in marine surface maintenance.

Available from gtechniq.co.uk, plus you can find Gtechniq Marine around the show, including on Marineware and Platinum Marine Services’ stands. Look out for demos and sample giveaways.

VETUS

VETUS will showcase its extensive portfolio of innovative marine solutions and product developments. Discover the latest in electric drives, thrusters and integrated control systems. Highlights include:

BOW PRO Thruster Series: BOW PRO thrusters deliver smooth, proportional control for confident manoeuvring in any situation. Whether you are docking in tight spaces or adjusting course in strong currents, every movement feels natural, quiet and responsive.

E-LINE Electric Propulsion: a powerful, compact 48V electric drive system tailored for both repower projects and new builds. With Active Electronic Braking, the system eliminates the need for a clutch or gearbox, enabling precise manoeuvring and quick directional changes with minimal energy loss.

The E-LINE ensures clean, silent and e cient cruising.

Maxwell anchoring solutions: For over 55 years, Maxwell has been making high-quality anchoring systems trusted by boaters around the world. From small boats to superyachts and commercial

ELECTRIC OUTBOARD

This year Electric Outboard will not only be featuring a range of electric outboard motors - including an exciting new product for UK boaters - but they will also have a couple of inboard motors as well. With ongoing advances in battery and motor technology, there really is a solution for a wide range of craft from small tenders to support and safety boats to 40ft sailing yachts. At their stand you will be able to see the Momentum M10, a 10kW 15hp electric outboard, along with a new

motor designed for smaller boats, the U2 2kw, an ideal solution for boaters looking for a light but powerful electric motor for their tender.

The brains behind both the M10 and the U2 will be at the show from 19 - 21 September. The team will be delighted to take you through the many benefits of both motors and answer your questions.

Also on the stand will be EZ X05 and X10 outboards as well as a couple of the EZ Inboard motors, a Temo 1000 and more…

vessels, Maxwell products are built to handle tough conditions and make anchoring easy and reliable.

Sander Gesink, VETUS Marketing Director, said: “There is no substitute for face-to-face interaction with customers and OEMs, and these events provide the perfect platform to showcase the versatility and seamless connectivity of our marine systems through hands-on, intuitive displays.”

ENGINES PLUS

This year Engines Plus have a new, larger stand giving visitors even more to explore and experience. There will be two new additions to the Engines Plus portfolio.

While not new to the show, this will be Selva Marine’s first year exhibiting as part of the Engines Plus family. Selva o ers a wide range of solutions for both leisure and light commercial marine use.

Also new will be FPT Industrial at the show for the first time. FPT o ers advanced marine engines designed for durability, e ciency and performance. While FPT has a strong focus on commercial marine, there will be a selection of their versatile engine solutions on display, all suitable for a range of marine applications.  Alongside these new additions, familiar names return too. Solé Advance continues to be a favourite among boaters looking for complete

onboard power solutions, while proven performance, excellent e ciency and low emissions make Hyundai Seasall engines a solid choice for leisure and light commercial craft alike.

“We have been exhibiting at the Southampton International Boat Show for as long as I can remember,” said Hedley Beavis, Managing Director of Engines Plus.

“It is a milestone year for us as we move to a larger stand and expand our presence at the show. We are really excited to showcase both new and existing brands, alongside our expert team who will be on hand to support and advise visitors throughout the event.”

Whether a boat owner, boat builder or marine engineer, the team at Engines Plus will be on hand to help everyone find the right solution. The team will be ready to talk engines, propulsion systems, generators and everything in between.

SEASPRAY BOATS

CRUISING MATTERS

IT’S SHOW TIME WITH THE CRUISING ASSOCIATION!

Come and visit the CA on Stand H522 in New Wave Hall at the Southampton International Boat Show, where we look forward to welcoming both current members and those curious about joining our vibrant cruising community. With over 6,400 members worldwide, the CA has been at the heart of cruising since 1908 - connecting sailors, sharing knowledge and supporting every stage of the cruising journey. Stop by to meet experienced cruisers, explore our extensive global cruising resources and discover how CA membership can enhance your adventures - whether you are just starting out in UK waters, planning to explore Europe or preparing for a blue water voyage, the CA is here to support you.

MEMBERSHIP OFFERS AND PARTNER DISCOUNTS

You cannot put a price on the CA’s cruising expertise, but we

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Connect with our expert teams through our on-stand Section Days on specific cruising areas, dropin sessions with the Regulatory & Technical Services (RATS) Group and CA talks on The Boating Academy Stage. Our daily highlights (1100-1700 hours) include:

19 September - RATS on orca: We will share risk-reduction and safety advice for sailing in orca-a ected waters and answer your questions.

20 September - Channel Section: Drop by the CA and chat with our Channel Section team, who will share plenty of information on crossing The Channel and cruising its waters.

22 September - Crewing Service: Whether you are a skipper seeking crew or crew looking for a boat, our Crewing Service connects you to a match afloat.

23 September - Travelling with Pets: Get the latest on travelling with pets from GB to the EU, as we share the planning, preparation and entry/exit requirements, along with current regulations and guidance. From 1525hrs RATS will be presenting a talk on The Boating Academy Stage. Turn to page 28 for more CA pet travel advice.

24 September - Midlands Section: Meet our new Midlands Section, based at Rutland Sailing Club, who will organise events, socials and information sharing for local members.

24 September - Cruising in Europe: Learn how to extend your stay in Europe as we discuss key requirements and restrictions as well as opportunities for extended travel in Europe for both UK and non-EU nationals. Do not miss the RATS talk: Boating Academy Stage at 1525hrs.

25 September - Motorboat Section: Whether you are planning trips, buying your first boat or need navigation and maintenance tips, our team can help.

26 September - RATS: Come and discuss any RATS subject.

27 September - Mediterranean Section: For those cruising or aspiring to cruise in the Mediterranean.

SHOW PRIZES

We also have fantastic prizes on o er, including our show prize of two Wescom sMRT Alert man overboard beacons worth £540. Simply visit the CA Stand on any day of the show to enter.

Plus, in partnership with Imray, visit on Channel Section day (20 September) and you could win a copy of the ‘Channel Islands, Cherbourg Peninsula and North Brittany’ pilot book. Or drop by on Mediterranean Section day (27 September) and enter the draw for a copy of the ‘Mediterranean Almanac 2025/26’.

CRUISING INFORMATION

Pick up the 2026 edition of our renowned Cruising Almanac, which is trusted as the go-to reference for cruising in NW Europe. Save postage and buy at the show (£28 members / £38 non-members).

Discover the vast and unrivalled potential of the CA’s award-winning CAptain’s Mate, our exclusive to members digital cruising app which boasts 20,000+ worldwide cruising reports.

If you are looking for inspiration on cruising locations, discover the CA’s range of cruising guides. You can also explore our Local and Cruising Sections, get details on upcoming 2025/2026 events, discover our worldwide network, find out about our London clubhouse and much more.

Whilst you are visiting, make sure to grab a complimentary copy of Cruising magazine.

The CA looks forward to welcoming you to Stand H522 in New Wave Hall. For more info and updates go to www.theca.org.uk/southamptonboatshow

Follow the Cruising Association

@cruisingassociation@cruising_assoc @the-cruising-association @cruisingassociation

and/or reliance on

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HOW TO MAKE YOUR BOAT MORE COMFORTABLE

For most boat owners, time afloat is not just about reaching a destination – it is about the journey, the memories and the moments shared with family and friends. Whether you are planning extended cruises, entertaining guests or simply looking to enhance your onboard experience, comfort is key.

Shade where it matters most:

Long days on deck are part of the joy of boating, but too much sun can be draining. Fitting high-quality sunshades or a bimini provide essential protection and keeps your cockpit cool.  For extra versatility, consider retractable awnings or custom canopies that shield you from both sun and wind, making any day on the water more enjoyable – whether at anchor or underway.

Comfortable cockpit seating:

Upgrading to high-density foam cockpit cushions with marine-grade fabric instantly improves onboard comfort. Custom-made seating tailored to your layout enhances both relaxation and aesthetics – ideal for long passages on watch or social gatherings.

Modern decking for comfort and safety: Worn-out decks can be both uncomfortable and unsafe. Installing new synthetic decking (like Flexiteek) not only looks great but is easier to maintain, it is non-slip and more durable and comfortable underfoot – especially in hotter climates.

Deck showers: A warm deck shower is a small luxury that makes a big difference. Whether rinsing off after a swim or keeping sand off your deck, a well-placed shower with temperature control is a practical and refreshing addition.

Galley upgrades for effortless cooking: A well-equipped galley turns cooking at sea into a pleasure, rather than an exercise in endurance. Upgrade to modern appliances like an induction hob or combination microwave and improve efficiency with smart storage and custom cabinetry. A water filtration system also ensures a constant supply of clean drinking water.

Heads revamp: A good setup for onboard ablutions makes a big impact. Install a freshwater electric toilet and a high-pressure shower for a more comfortable experience. Add extras like heated towel rails, stylish fixtures and quality toiletries for a touch of onboard luxury.

We spoke to Paul Hardy, Refit & Service Manager at Ancasta Yacht Services, to find out what upgrades he recommends to turn your yacht into a stylish, relaxing retreat on the water.

“These enhancements do not just add value –they transform your boat into a true home away from home on the water”

A restful night’s sleep: A quality mattress can make all the difference on overnight stays. Swap out thin foam pads for memory foam or latex mattresses and finish with breathable bedding and blackout blinds for a better night’s sleep – even in tropical heat.

Feel good flooring: Replace tired or slippery flooring with high-quality marine flooring or soft-touch carpeting for improved aesthetics and safety. Adding anti-fatigue mats in high-traffic areas like the galley provides extra cushioning underfoot, making standing more comfortable during meal prep.

Keeping it cool – refrigeration: Invest in an energy-efficient fridge or freezer to keep food and drinks fresh, especially on longer trips. A secondary drinks fridge or wine cooler is a great bonus if you have the space – perfect for entertaining.

Onboard entertainment: Create the perfect onboard vibe with a Bluetoothenabled sound system, smart TV and marine-grade waterproof speakers. Zoned audio lets you enjoy music inside and out, whether you are entertaining or winding down at anchor after a day’s sailing.

Enhanced lighting, elevated ambience: LED lighting enhances mood and safety. Use dimmable lights in cabins for a cozy, customisable atmosphere, soft deck lighting for safe manoeuvres after dark and underwater lights for dramatic effect at night.

Climate control for year-round comfort: Stay cool in summer and warm in winter with efficient air conditioning and heating systems. Modern, energy efficient climate control units are available, providing comfort without sacrificing performance, fuel-efficiency or sustainability.

Generators for off-grid freedom: Planning on spending more time at sea? A quiet, fuel-efficient generator powers your key systems – from air con to fridges – when you are away from shore power, keeping life onboard comfortable and hassle-free.

Water makers for longer trips: A water maker means you will never worry about running low on fresh water during longer cruises. It is a game-changer for remote anchoring, ocean passages or extended bluewater cruising, giving you greater independence and less need for bulky water storage.

More battery, more freedom: Upgrade to high-capacity lithium-ion batteries to run systems longer without recharging. They are lighter, longer-lasting and more efficient – perfect for yachts aiming to stay off-grid or reduce generator use.

Upgrading is easy: Improving your yacht’s comfort is not just about luxury – it is about making every moment onboard more enjoyable, practical and stress-free. With expert help from Ancasta Yacht Services, upgrading your boat with smart, stylish and practical solutions has never been easier.

From new decking to smarter storage, sun protection to state-of-the-art sound systems, these enhancements do not just add value – they transform your boat into a true home away from home on the water.

Part of the Ancasta Group, Ancasta Yacht Services is a professional yacht refit, repair and services company with a team of highly skilled craftsman, with excellent facilities based in Hamble, Southampton. ancasta.com/yacht-services

THE PERFECT OUTBOARD

Daniel Rice, Marine Product Manager at Yamaha Motor UK, discusses what to bear in mind when selecting your outboard, according to your boat, your ambitions and your style of boating.

Whether fitting out a fishing boat, upgrading a family cruiser or looking for the perfect match for your performance RIB, choosing the right outboard is one of the most important decisions you will make. From power and control to environmental considerations and after-sales support, getting it right can transform your time on the water.

POWER WITH PURPOSE

When it comes to outboards, more horsepower is not always better. It is tempting to go big, but the ideal engine depends on your boat’s hull shape, weight and intended use. A vessel designed for leisurely inland cruising will not require the same setup as a highperformance sports boat.

Manufacturers often provide recommended engine specs, but consulting your local marine dealer is

the best way to ensure you are pairing the right engine with the right craft. An over or underpowered boat can lead to poor fuel efficiency, sluggish handling and potential safety issues, none of which make for an enjoyable day out on the water.

GREENER CHOICES ON THE WATER

As in many industries, sustainability is now a serious focus in the marine world. For boaters looking to minimise their environmental impact, electric outboards, such as those from Yamaha-owned brand Torqeedo, offer a compelling option. These batterypowered units run cleanly and quietly, with minimal maintenance and zero emissions. That said, they are not right for every journey. While electric

SHOP TALK

From new outboards to electronics we round up the latest news

Ghost® X Trolling Motor

From Lowrance comes the Ghost® X 47-inch trolling motor, designed for freshwater. Ghost X is packed with features designed to keep anglers dialled in on the fish. With enhanced precision, the new trolling motor includes an indicator that provides even greater accuracy and visibility for both sonar and motor direction. The new raised chevrons ensure maximum visibility from all around the boat.

The Ghost X also delivers a 20 per cent increase in thrust compared to the original Ghost trolling motor, empowering anglers to easily navigate strong currents and dense weeds. Plus, its quietness ensures a stealth approach to any fishing spot. Beyond precision, Ghost X offers superior control through its integrated foot pedal or any compatible multifunction display with NMEA 2000® integration.

The Lowrance Ghost X trolling motor starts at: £3,613.33.

ULTRAWIDE 15” TOUCHSCREEN CHARTPLOTTER

Garmin has extended the range of GPSMAP chartplotters with a new ultrawide 15-inch touchscreen - the GPSMAP® 1523xsv - offering a stunning high-resolution display and superior clarity in a sleek design to optimise space in the helm. With an edge-to-edge glass format that fits a wide range of dash configurations, users can enjoy the advantages of dual screens without needing two separate units, making it easier to

tech is advancing rapidly, current capabilities are best suited to shorter trips on calm waters. For longer runs, higher speeds or open sea adventures, traditional petrol outboards still offer the convenience of fast refuelling and extended range - making them the go-to for many coastal and offshore boaters today.

SMARTER HANDLING

Larger boats or those with multiple engines benefit from more sophisticated handling systems. Digital helm control options like Yamaha’s Helm Master EX deliver an intuitive, stress-free experience, giving skippers fingertip control over steering and positioning. From joystick manoeuvring to autopilot and position-hold functions, these systems take the pressure off when docking, navigating tight spots or holding course at sea. For boaters looking for extra comfort and confidence behind the wheel, this level of integration can make a real difference.

MORE THAN JUST THE MOTOR Performance is vital, but so is peace of mind. That is why it pays to choose an outboard from a manufacturer with a strong reputation for reliability and after-sales service.

A well-established dealer network means expert advice before you buy, as well as easy access to maintenance, servicing and spare parts down the line. The reassurance of a knowledgeable support team can be just as valuable as any feature under the cowling.

Choosing the right outboard will transform a user’s time spent on the water. Whether it is cruising along the coast or exploring inland waterways, taking the time to consider a boat’s requirements and intended use will guarantee the perfect match. Not only will this ensure the best boating experience possible but, most importantly, it will also offer maximum safety.

www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/home

For your nearest Yamaha outboard dealer: www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/ en/dealer-locator

RIB SHOP EXPANSION

MDL Marinas’ long-standing tenant Rib Shop Ltd has expanded its presence at Hamble Point Marina, which is situated at the mouth of the River Hamble with immediate access to the Solent.

The 590sq ft unit will serve as a dedicated, clientfacing showroom, not only showcasing Honda outboards and Highfield tenders, but also providing a dedicated space for clients to discuss their specifications for retubes, refits and new RIB sales.

Stephanie French, Company Director at Rib Shop, said: “As our business continues to grow, having this additional, client-focused facility allows us to enhance the service we provide. We are grateful to MDL Marinas for supporting our expansion and helping us bring this project to life.”

VERADO LINE-UP IS EXPANDED

Mercury Marine has expanded its award-winning Verado® outboard line-up with the introduction of the all-new V10 425hp Verado outboard and a performance enhanced version of the V10 350hp Verado outboard.

“These new V10 Verado engines reflect our commitment to giving

display the data and applications they use most.

Mariners will love the GPSMAP 1523xsv, not only because of the ultrawide display, but also the great features such as splitscreen customisation, built-in sonar, charts, engine data support, seamless connectivity and the ability to control all boat operations on one screen. garmin.com/marine

boaters exactly what they have asked for: greater performance with the same smooth, refined experience they expect from Mercury,” said John Buelow, Mercury Marine president.

Built on Mercury’s compact V10 platform, both engines offer 26-inch centre-to-centre mounting,

making them ideal for repowering boats originally rigged with L6 Verado or competitive outboards. Digital Throttle & Shift is standard on the new 425hp and enhanced 350hp Verado outboards, which also offer available Joystick Piloting for ‘exceptional control and precision’.

NAVIGATORS & GENERAL PUTTING BOAT OWNERS AT

THE HELM OF MARINE INSURANCE

Navigators & General (N&G), the UK’s longest-serving provider of pleasure craft insurance, is rea rming its commitment to boat owners through continued investment in people and technology - ensuring your time on the water is protected by those who truly understand it.

Now part of Geo Underwriting, N&G has spent the past year strengthening its team and expanding its capabilities. Many of the underwriters and customer service sta are boat owners and sailing enthusiasts themselves, giving them a deep, personal understanding of the joys and challenges of life afloat.

With over 100 years of experience, N&G continues to lead the way in pleasure craft insurance, o ering tailored cover for everything from day boats to bluewater cruisers, from narrowboats on a canal, to dinghies racing on the Solent.

Service That Keeps Pace

With Your Lifestyle

N&G has now launched a new customer portal designed specifically with boat owners in mind. Whether you are moored in the UK or cruising abroad, you will have 24/7 access to your policy documents, certificates and renewal information - right from your phone or tablet. The portal also makes it easy to update your policy and easily access key documents such as your ThirdParty Liability certificate or international certificates needed when entering the territorial waters of other countries. Later this year, N&G will introduce a quote-and-buy website for new customers, making it even easier to get the cover that you need.

People Who Speak Your Language What truly sets N&G apart is its people. Many of the team are sailors themselves, o ering expert knowledge and support grounded in real-world experience. You may have seen them out and about on the water this summer. The team continues to grow, with new customer service roles created to ensure boat owners receive personalised support, whether renewing a policy or making changes to their cover.

Expanding Access To The Boat Club Product

As part of N&G’s development, their popular Boat Club product is now available more widely, giving clubs access to high-quality insurance that has been developed over many years’ experience through their choice of trusted brokers.

Graham Clark, Head of Navigators & General, said: “We are proud to combine deep sailing expertise with smart technology. Our N&G team lives and breathes boating, and that passion drives everything we do - from underwriting to customer service. With new digital tools and a growing team, we are making marine insurance simpler, smarter and more supportive for boat owners across the UK.”

Solent based dinghy sailor David Henshall is a well known writer and speaker on topics covering the rich heritage of all aspects of leisure boating.

A HEART OF STONE

‘The past may be set in stone, but the future is ours to shape’.

For some time now these Diary pages have carried features detailing the twin pleasures of Weymouth and Portland and how they act as a gateway to the delights of the Jurassic Coast for visiting yachts.

Sitting side by side on the waters of Weymouth Bay, the two locations are like chalk and cheese: Weymouth is the classic seaside town, with a fabulous sandy beach and all the attractions you would expect to find at a holiday resort. Portland on the other hand is different, still not without its attractions but these are fewer and maybe for more specialised tastes: the D-Day Museum is excellent and ‘hands on’ but not everyone’s first choice for a damp day.

MEMO PROJECT

However, all this will soon change with the news that a wonderful new project is about to get the final green light before construction work hopefully starts in 2026, with the first phase, all being well, opening to the public in 2028. With the backing of some of the best minds behind the iconic Eden project, the proposed ‘MEMO’ site (for Mass Extinction Memorial Observatory –surely they will come up with a snappier name!) will have as its centrepiece one of the major mines for Portland stone.

The first mention of the M word might well fill some people with a horror of dark, damp, enclosed spaces but the reality of the MEMO project is just as far from this as it is possible to be.

But first, we need to take a quick look back into the history of Portland and the way it has been such a rich source of that essential building material, stone!

PORTLAND STONE

best having a lovely creamy off-white colour that would weather to a light grey, whilst still being the best for building construction.

Moving forward in time, as London grew in its role as the nation’s capital, Portland stone would become a highly prized commodity, with Wren using it for St. Paul’s Cathedral, not to mention Buckingham Palace which is another famous testament to the quality of the stone. However, if there is one single example that stands out for showing the pale beauty of Portland stone then it has to be in the stunning construction of the Cenotaph in Whitehall.

Like all our natural resources there is a finite limit to the amount of stone that can be removed over time and as the surface quarries started to become exhausted, new seams were worked that started to extend deep underground, creating the Portland mines. The amount of care that is taken in this operation is incredible, with 6m wide cuts being taken, but with equal 6m wide roof supports being left on either side which, allied to the structural strength of the stone, making the workings a completely safe environment.

UNDERGROUND HEART

All this brings us bang up-to-date and the latest plans for the MEMO project.

Ground Zero is based within Albion Stone’s Bowers Quarry and Churchyard Mine, which is situated on the northern side of Portland (indeed, it is just on the western side of the main road that leads up from the causeway and up the hill onto the top of the island). Bowers Quarry is already an extensive site and in the lower level can be found the entrance into the mine, with workings that extend further west under the iconic Church of St George (hence the Churchyard Mine).

Such is the attention to detail below ground that not only has the stone

not been removed from underneath the church, but the remaining stone pillars have been cut in such a way that they exactly mirror the shape and dimensions of the building up above them. Stood on the floor of the tunnel, despite being underground it is not difficult to feel a shared experience with the building above, as the roofline to the workings is a full 10m here so the sensation of the ‘vaulted roof’ is easy to enjoy, though it is almost more cathedral like than just a mere church.

It is certainly a very pleasant environment, as the mine stays at a constant temperature, is mainly dry and has a negligible smell, in part thanks to the 100 cubic metres a minute of fresh air that is pumped into the workings from a surface shaft that has an entrance facing out towards the sea. The mine is also blessed with the fact that limestone workings like this do not suffer from the noxious gases that can be found in other underground workings.

It is here that the MEMO project will have its underground heart, for as the tagline says “Together we will tell the biggest story of all: the evolving story of life. It is a story four billion years in the making and so far as anyone knows is unique in the universe.”

COUNTDOWN

It is certainly an evocative prospect and if things progress as quickly as the organisers hope, final planning permission will be granted next year, with work starting shortly after that. The good news is that if these dates are met, then there is a very reasonable expectation that the site could be opened to the public in time for the summer holiday season in 2028.

The whole project is so exciting that All at Sea will be returning to it when work is ready to start, for here will be a destination that will attract the many visiting yachts to the delights of Weymouth and Portland.

down in the late Jurassic era, was known to weather well yet was reasonably easy to work. The location was also important, as being able to transport the material by boat was crucial in the days before the road and rail network were developed. As far back as Roman times, the stone was being quarried and shipped around the country and beyond. However, these early masons soon found that there was a distinct hierarchy of stone quality at Portland, with the

 Deep underground lurk strange beastsJCBs with stone cutting chainsaws!

Portland Stone above ground and below. This Church of St George, stood on its own underground pillar of Portland stone

It is hard to believe that directly about this carefully cut stone lies a large church building (and a graveyard)

An aerial overview of the Portland site

Image: MEMO Project

Image: David Henshall

A wonderful artist’s impression of how one of the MEMO chambers will look

Image: David Henshall

THIS MONTH! From 11 - 14 September Portland becomes the stage for b-side’s Big Weekend - four days of bold, surprising art that transforms the island’s quarries, harbours and hidden corners into living galleries.

Photos of the Month

Send in your photos and you could be in All at Sea, on our Facebook page or in our weekly newsletter*. Send entries, with a caption, to editor@allatsea.co.uk. Each month’s winning photo will be included in the 2025 Photo of the Year reader vote.

Tamara Deprez’s photo taken at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa.

PHOTO

Thank you to Garry Dawson for sending in this Beachy Head photo.

late autumn afternoon at Falmouth Harbour taken by Tony Rothwell.

‘Final Resting’ - Jason finally got the fog he had been waiting for to capture this charming wreck in Southampton.

Reflections on the water at Maryport Marina, West Cumbria courtesy of Paul Wood.

This is Douglas Elliott’s photo of the prototype Drascombe Scaith sailing in the mouth of the River Yealm in Devon. The Drascombe Scaith was built by Douglas at the John Elliott Boatyard, designed by John Watkinson who is at the helm.

Thank you to Chris Church for this fantastic photo.

Also from Martin Smith ‘Inbound for the River Ore’.

Old bones on the River Deben by Martin Smith.

(5)

Protecting from light or view (7)

Thrust out (7)

Shift, move very slightly (5)

S acredly obscure (6)

Clods (6)

Frighten off (5)

Glowing (7)

Country, capital Beirut (7) 24 Mr Mosimann, famous chef (5)

25 Cleansing agent (4)

26 Machine for destroying documents (8)

Down

1 Large stringed instrument (5)

2 Time after sunset (5)

3 E xtremely painful (12)

4 Not so hard (6)

6 Young person (5)

7 Deviate (7)

8 Main dietary component (12) 12 Purchase (3) 14 Interferes unnecessarily and ill-advisedly (7) 16 U nderstand (Scots) (3)

17 Tree limb (6)

19 Darkest part of a shadow (5)

21 Played a part (5)

22 Photocopier ink (5)

Each letter of the alphabet has been given a different number. Substitute numbers for letters to make words to complete the puzzle. The check-box and letters either side of the grid may help you keep track.

Using the letters in the wheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible of three or more letters, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns.

Each word must contain the central letter and no letters can be used more than once per word unless they appear in different sections of the wheel.

There is at least one nine-letter word to be found. Nine-letter word(s):

DEACONS MARINA

With a history dating back over 100 years, the marina was significantly redeveloped in 2014 to modernise its facilities. It now o ers 110 walk-ashore pontoon berths for vessels up to 14.5m, plus 20 semi-tidal berths as well as a full-service boatyard

FACILITIES & BERTHING

With its location on the upper reaches of the River Hamble, Deacons Marina o ers an exceptional berthing experience for both resident and visiting berth holders. The friendly and well-equipped marina provides a peaceful yet convenient base for exploring the Solent and surrounding South Coast waters.

The marina can accommodate a wide range of vessels, with walkashore pontoon berths available for yachts up to 14.5m. It features 110 fully serviced pontoon berths, plus a further 20 semi-tidal berths which are available subject to weather and current, with extensive shoreside storage for up to 160 boats. A wellequipped boatyard and lifting facilities are available on-site, including a 15-tonne boat hoist and a mobile crane, supporting everything from routine maintenance and emergency lifts to winter storage and full refits.

OUT AND ABOUT

Deacons Marina is nestled in the charming village of Bursledon, o ering visitors a blend of maritime heritage and natural beauty. The marina sits alongside the scenic River Hamble, known for its strong sailing culture and stunning riverside walks.

A must-see highlight is the historic Bursledon Windmill, just a short drive away, which dates back to the 18th

with a 15-tonne hoist and undercover workshops. Since early 2023, Deacons has continued to invest in customer experience, including the installation of electric vehicle charging points, making it one of the first marinas on the Solent to o er this eco-conscious amenity.

The marina o ers comprehensive support for boaters, with expert

The facilities are designed with comfort and convenience in mind.

Berth holders and visiting crews benefit from modern shower and toilet facilities, free WiFi across the site, 24hour CCTV and gated access for added security, ample car parking and on-site laundry services. Each berth o ers electric and water hook-ups.

Deacons Marina is ideal for those who enjoy getting afloat all year round. Services such as the on-site chandlery are fully stocked with parts and supplies, providing easy access to essentials for maintenance and upgrades throughout the year.

Deacons is also home to a vibrant community of marine businesses. These include highly regarded specialists such as boatpoint, o ering professional brokerage services, and boatcare, which provides comprehensive maintenance including rigging, electronics, GRP repairs, antifouling

century and provides insight into the area’s industrial past.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the nearby Hamble Rail Trail is perfect for walking or cycling, following the river through picturesque countryside and woodland. The local village o ers quaint shops and pubs, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day on the water.

MARINA FOCUS

Deacons Marina by boatfolk is on the west bank of the River Hamble at Bursledon.

services covering maintenance, repairs, rigging and electronics.

A well-stocked chandlery and the welcoming Seahorse Bistro complete the convenient, on-site o ering.

With easy access by road, rail and river, Deacons Marina is known for its welcoming atmosphere, practical facilities and strong boating community.

and full refits. The marina also hosts Force 4 Chandlery and Mendez Marine, o ering everything from spares and rigging to RYA training.

Berth holders enjoy a host of exclusive benefits, including a national cruising pass with 300 free nights at sister marinas, 10 per cent o boatyard services, six weeks’ free storage ashore, complimentary Southampton international Boat Show tickets and free boat handling sessions with training discounts at Mendez Marine.

Social events, such as the annual summer party, create a welcoming community atmosphere.

Within easy walking distance of the marina, The Jolly Sailor pub stands out as a favourite, serving classic British fare with a welcoming atmosphere and riverside views. The nearby Creekside Co ee House is a great spot for a relaxed breakfast or afternoon co ee. For more dining options, the village centre hosts several eateries o ering a range of cuisines.

ACCESS

The marina is easily accessible both by land and sea, making it a convenient destination for boaters and visitors alike.

By land, the marina is situated along the River Hamble, just o the B3335 Hamble Lane. Visitors driving to the marina can reach it directly via the main road, with ample on-site parking available.

For those using public transport, Deacons Marina can be accessed via two nearby railway stations. Bursledon station, just a fiveminute walk from the marina, is ideal for travellers coming from London and northern routes.

Hamble station, approximately 1.5 miles away, can be more convenient for visitors arriving from Southampton or Portsmouth. Both stations o er regular services, with taxis and local buses available from Hamble station.

By sea, Deacons Marina lies along the River Hamble estuary, a wellcharted and popular route renowned for its scenic surroundings. While navigation is generally straightforward, boaters should be aware of strong tidal currents and narrow channels, especially at low tide. The marina entrance, near the village of Hamble, is clearly marked by buoys and navigational aids to ensure safe passage.

Visiting yachts should monitor VHF Channel 12 to communicate with the Hamble Harbour O ce for berthing instructions or assistance. Approaching at a cautious speed and remaining alert to river tra c, including commercial vessels and ferries, will help ensure a smooth and safe arrival at the marina.

BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA

CRUISING

Deacons Marina is an excellent base for exploring the Solent and nearby cruising grounds.

Cowes is eight nautical miles and takes up to two hours, with East Cowes marina o ering easy access from the Solent estuary. The sail is a scenic and manageable passage through sheltered waters, with lively Solent tides and occasional tra c adding a touch of challenge to this rewarding short hop.

Heading 11 nautical miles northeast from Cowes, Haslar Marina is just a short hop across the water.

At Haslar, visitors can enjoy meals at onsite venues like The Lightship, which requires a small annual membership fee, or The Creek, both known for their welcoming atmosphere and scenic views.

Weekend cruisers often venture further to Portsmouth Harbour or Lymington, each o ering excellent facilities and rich maritime history.

Portsmouth’s vibrant waterfront and Lymington’s charming access to the New Forest make both ideal stops.

For those looking to open the sails for up to four or five hours in more challenging tidal waters, the wider Solent, including The Needles, Bembridge Harbour or coastal ports like Chichester Harbour can o er rewarding sailing conditions. Sailors should remain mindful of tidal streams, strong south-westerly winds and busy shipping lanes which are common to the area.

With sheltered waters, excellent facilities and the convenience of the National Cruising Pass for use at sister marinas, Deacons Marina provides a fantastic springboard for Solent adventures.

boatpoint – brokerage service o ering new and pre-owned boat sales, valuations, surveys and brokerage support.

boatcare – full-service boat maintenance and repair provider, handling everything from antifouling and GRP repairs to rigging, engines, keels, thrusters and interiors.

Force 4 Chandlery – one of the UK’s largest chandlery branches stocking marine equipment, electronics, clothing and safety gear with expert sta support.

Mendez Marine (RYA Sea School) – provides boat-handling lessons, powerboat and RYA training courses right from the marina.

Pantaenius Insurance – with an o ce on-site o ering boat insurance services.

Seahorse Bistro – on-site café and bistro serving cakes, hot food, co ee and drinks in a relaxed riverside setting.

FURTHER INFORMATION

General Manager: Ben Lippiett Marina: 02380 402253

02380 178691

Check out our new & improved website, at:

With over 500 Tonnes of chain in stock, as well as a huge selection of rope, shackles, swivels, buoys and other mooring products, BGD are able to help you with most of your mooring & anchoring requirements .

Calibrated Chain suitable for Windlasses

*Test Certificate supplied with chain on request.

TITAN GRADE 40

Tested, Stamped & Certificated, Hot Dip Galvanised, Calibrated Chain Suitable for use on windlasses

Titan Chain is BGD’s own brand. Sourced in China and made specifically for BGD, Titan chain is a high quality, Grade 40 chain that performs well on windlasses. Titan chain can be supplied c/w a test certificate on request.

Titan HDG 6x18.5 DIN766

£3.45 per mtr

Titan HDG 7x22 DIN766 £4.56 per mtr

Titan HDG 8x24 DIN766 £6.95 per mtr

Titan HDG 10x28 DIN766 £9.36 per mtr

Titan HDG 10x30 ISO £9.36 per mtr

Titan HDG 12x36 ISO £12.24 per mtr

Titan HDG 13x36 DIN766 £13.80 per mtr

SOLID ZINC grade 40, calibrated chain is manufactured in Italy and is coated with an increased layer of galvanising, giving it increased longevity. It’s smooth finish & calibration makes it perfect for use on windlasses.

SOLID ZINC is tested, stamped & certified. Certificates available on request.

MF Solid Zinc 6x18.5 DIN766 £4.90 per mtr

MF Solid Zinc 7x22 DIN766 £6.30 per mtr

MF Solid Zinc 8x24 DIN766 £8.80 per mtr

MF Solid Zinc 10x28 DIN766 £12.50 per m

MF Solid Zinc 10x30 ISO £12.50 per m

MF Solid Zinc 12x36 ISO £16.30 per m

MF Solid Zinc 13x36 DIN766 £17.80 per m

Polyester Mooring Lines

Ready spliced, braided black polyester with 15” soft eye & whipped end. Packed in pairs in a netted stowage bag.

* 1 Line Only

READY MADE

16mm Diam x 8mtr £29.78

16mm Diam x 10mts £35.71

16mm Diam x 15mts £50.47

18mm Diam x 8mts £33.41

18mm Diam x 10mts £40.13

18mm Diam x 15mts £56.93

20mm Diam x 8mts £42.65

20mm Diam x 10mts £51.50

20mm Diam x 15mts £37.80*

Titan 316 Stainless Steel Chain

6x18.5mm DIN766

per mtr 8x24mm DIN766

per mtr 10x28 mm DIN766

per mtr 10x30 mm ISO

12x36 mm ISO

GRADE 70 8x24

Italian, Grade 70, 8x24 Anchor / Windlass Chain

MBL (Minimum Break Load) = 7000kg

Hot Dip Galvanised / Solid Zinc Coating DIN766 Calibrated c/w Test Certificate Available by the metre at £12.50 mtr

Pattern)

316 Stainless Trefoil Anchor (Bruce Pattern)

316 Stainless Voyager Anchor (DeltaType)

2kg £69.20

5kg £139.00

10kg £240.00

16kg £384.00

20kg £480.00

25kg £625.00

Boarding Fender 45cm x 12cm

White or Navy £39.95 each

Ever Popular! ‘Titan’ Heavy Duty Boat Stands ’

Voyager Anchor (Delta Type)

BUCKLER’S HARD YACHT HARBOUR

MARINA FOCUS

Situated on the beautiful Beaulieu River, the five Gold Anchor Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour is a natural haven where the New Forest meets the Solent.

Located in the heart of the New Forest, the Beaulieu River has been under the careful custodianship of the Montagu family for over four centuries, which has helped preserve its unique character.

In 2025, the £2 million redevelopment of the 54-year-old boatshed was completed, following the major expansion of Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour in 2021. The upgraded facility now meets modern marine industry standards and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to enhancing the river’s infrastructure. It also creates new opportunities for marine businesses to relocate, improving services and facilities for mooring holders on the Beaulieu River.

OUT AND ABOUT

The New Forest o ers a wide range of attractions, from castles and museums to gardens and theme parks. Just a short walk from the marina lies the historic village of Buckler’s Hard (pictured), where ships were once built for Nelson’s Navy. Visit the Buckler’s Hard Museum to explore its rich maritime past and step inside reconstructed 18th-century cottages. At the end of the high street, the Master Builder’s House o ers two great dining options: Henry’s, a cosy

ACCESS

For those arriving by road, it is just 25 minutes from the M27 motorway, o ering convenient access from across the South Coast.

FACILITIES & BERTHING

With a prestigious Five Gold Anchor accreditation, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour provides a sheltered haven on the Beaulieu River. The marina o ers 211 fully serviced walk-ashore berths, over 300 river moorings and a boat park with a slipway. Recent upgrades include improved electricity and WiFi, as well as a black water pump-out facility.

A vibrant calendar of events brings together the Beaulieu River boating community throughout the year.

Onshore, visitors enjoy the charm of the historic 18th-century village of Buckler’s Hard, home to a museum, restaurant, pub and tea room.

The newly opened boatshed includes five first-floor o ces, two

pub serving hearty food and local ales from 10am daily, and the Riverview Restaurant, featuring classic British dishes and views over the Beaulieu River. In the local village of Beaulieu, you will find the popular Beaulieu visitor attraction - best known for its worldfamous National Motor Museum. Brockenhurst station, just eight miles away, provides direct rail links to London Waterloo and Weymouth. Taxis from Brockenhurst to Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour take around 20 minutes.

meeting rooms and a high-clearance workshop for full-height vessels.

Two additional fully insulated bays with roller shutters support a range of boatyard services. The work may be carried out personally or by an appointed contractor.

Letting terms include parking, WiFi, electricity and access to a communal kitchen (service charges apply).

Meeting rooms are also available to hire by the day or half-day.

A new marina shop, chandlery and reception have opened, o ering fresh food and drink, boating essentials, curated gifts and a café space. These facilities serve berth holders, mooring users and more than 10,000 annual visitors to the harbour.

When approaching by boat from the east, keep the lit south cardinal to starboard o Stone Point and steer to the vicinity of a lit, yellow special buoy close to the bearing to run in on. The bearing to run in on is 324 guided by the transit marks, the front mark is port post No.2 and the back mark is Lepe House.

The journey continues with a picturesque 3.5 nautical mile cruise upstream to reach Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour. Visitors are welcome to enter the Beaulieu River at any time, day or night. However, marina berths are only available with an advance booking. Upon arrival, all visiting vessels should report to the Harbour Master’s O ce via VHF channel 68 using the call sign ‘Beaulieu River Radio’.

BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA

■ COOKS MARITIME CRAFTSMEN & YACHT SURVEYS

■ HARVE & SAM FLETCHER

■ JEREMY ROGERS

■ ROC MARINE SOLUTIONS LTD

■ OCEAN RIGGING

■ S.D ELECTRONICS

CRUISING

Large sections of the Beaulieu River and its banks are part of the North Solent Nature Reserve* which restricts public access, so hop aboard your boat to see the wide range of habitats and wildlife it supports. Highlights: Mulberry Dock - as you head downstream you will pass the old oyster beds where a floating dock was built for use in the D-Day landings. Gins - now home to the Royal Southampton Yacht Club, Gins was once bustling with activity as the monks of Beaulieu Abbey kept their fishing boats and trading ships there. Looking further afield, Beaulieu River is centrally located on the Solent, giving easy access to the sailing centres of Cowes, Lymington and Southampton. Perfect to use as a base for exploring.

*Please note: to protect important colonies of nesting seabirds, Gull Island and Warren Shore are closed to the public; however access to other parts of the North Solent Nature Reserve is possible by permit, issued by the Beaulieu Estate O ce (01590 614621 / estate@beaulieu.co.uk)

■ HUDSON MARINE

■ MARINE TEC LTD

■ RIVERBANK MARINE SERVICES

■ ROPEWALK MARINE

■ SOLENT YACHT CARE LIMITED

■ IBOATVALET

■ REYNOLDS MARINE INTERIORS

■ PARKER ADAMS BOAT SALES

PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION

“The reason I choose to moor my Cornish Crabber at Beaulieu river is very simple. It is stunningly beautiful and as a nature lover there is always something interesting going on throughout the seasons. Add to that a team that is highly professional and truly dedicated to looking after you, helping solve the challenges that go with owning a boat. The team are exceptional. I made a living helping teams achieve high performance. The Beaulieu River team hit all the right markers and best of all they do this without straining. I have not been in a marina that feels so helpful. I also love the good-natured manner that all things are conducted. Sure, it is a business, but it feels much more than that. The facilities are excellent and the range of trades supporting you are again highly professional.”

Chris Lever – Mooring Holder

Harbour Master: Wendy Stowe

Deputy Harbour Master: Adam Lewis harbour.o ce@beaulieu.co.uk | 01590 616200 www.beaulieuriver.co.uk

VHF Channel 68 - ‘Beaulieu River Radio’ Harbour Master’s O ce, Beaulieu, Hampshire SO42 7XB

Image: Stuart Martin/Beaulieu

THE CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS

Nestled amongst the moored boats, the Waterlodges at Yarmouth Harbour offer a unique Isle of Wight retreat.

Located in scenic Yarmouth Harbour, you will find two Waterlodges that offer a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. These floating apartments provide a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the Solent and easy access to the charming town of Yarmouth. Each lodge accommodates up to five guests and features two double bedrooms, a sofa bed, shower room and lounge/diner. The interiors are modern and stylish, equipped with all the amenities to ensure you have a comfortable stay. The fully equipped kitchen makes meal preparation easy and enjoyable along with the cozy dining area.

Each lodge features generous thermal insulation and a full heating system, ensuring a cosy break.

A standout feature of these Waterlodges is the outdoor space. Guests can unwind on the lower deck or the roof terrace, both furnished with outdoor seating. Whether you want to soak up the sun, or watch the boats and wildlife, these areas provide the perfect setting. With unrivalled views of the Solent, guests can experience the beautiful West Wight sunsets.

OUT AND ABOUT

Yarmouth is a charming town with plenty to explore. Visitors can discover the

historic castle, browse local shops and visit the picturesque pier, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The town offers a range of dining experiences, from casual cafes to fine dining, ensuring there is something for everyone.

From the harbour, you can embark on various activities including fishing trips, sightseeing boat tours or charter a boat for a private adventure. Popular cruises include trips to see the iconic Needles rocks. Just steps from your Waterlodge, Sandhard beach awaits - a hidden gem perfect for a quick swim, sandcastle building or a relaxing BBQ in the dedicated area. The River Yar and its estuary are excellent spots for bird watching, with a

“These

TURN TO PAGE 61 TO WIN A STAY!

floating apartments provide a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the Solent and easy access to the charming town of Yarmouth”

circular Estuary walk offering the chance to see various species of waterfowl.

The surrounding West Wight area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as paragliding, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, golf and horse riding. You can also hire a car or bike from the harbour to explore West Wight or further afied.

BOOK YOUR STAY

The lodges are available to book via yarmouthwaterlodges.com with minimum stay requirements depending on the season.

Whether you are planning a short getaway or a longer holiday, these floating apartments offer a unique way to experience life on the water without compromising on comfort or space. yarmouthwaterlodges.com

We have been getting to know more about East Sussex’s Peter Leonard Marine.

PETER LEONARD MARINE

Peter Leonard Marine, established in 1970, is located on Denton Island in Newhaven, East Sussex.

Peter Leonard Marine operate two marinas on the River Ouse (Newhaven) with a capacity of up to 250 boats afloat on tidal pontoon

FACILITIES & BERTHING

Peter Leonard Marine o er wellequipped marinas, marina services and comprehensive boat storage solutions backed by decades of experience in the marine industry. Their marinas provide easy access to the English Channel, making it

ACCESS

Access to the marinas and boatyard is straight forward. By sea, enter Newhaven Harbour and head north, through the swing bridge which is opened on high tide by request with Newhaven Radio Channel 12 (notice is required for an opening).

Their tidal marinas are accessible up to 2.5 hours either side of high tide. The pontoons and vessel take to the soft river bed at low tides.

By road, they are situated just o the A259 and there is ample free parking and space if towing your boat.

moorings and ashore. The marinas have electrical outlets, water points and the usual safety equipment you would expect. Both are secured with electronic key fob entry systems and CCTV.

O ering comprehensive marine services, the yard specialises in boat

a convenient location for boaters operating along the South Coast. The sheltered position within Newhaven Harbour ensures protection from the elements and o ers a safe haven for vessels throughout the year.

The facility includes secure pontoon berths for a variety of boat sizes, with WiFi, water and electricity available on-site. Whether you are looking for short-term mooring, long-term berthing, liveaboard moorings or winter storage ashore, the marina o ers flexible packages at competitive rates.

In addition to marina services, Peter Leonard Marine boasts extensive boat repair options. Their factory trained

CRUISING

Peter Leonard Marine is opposite Newhaven town centre with its many bus stops, and the mainline train station is a five minute walk with two trains an hour to Brighton, Eastbourne, London and beyond.

PLM’s marinas are situated in Newhaven, nestled between Eastbourne and Brighton. The beautiful Seven Sisters to the east give a stunning back drop to anchor and picnic or, to the west, a weekend to the Solent is within easy reach.

Newhaven Marina, just down the river, is undergoing a transformation and o ers a good ‘overnight’ option to the berth holders so they can extend their boating over a weekend. PLM sta can, by prior arrangement, deliver berth holders’ vessels to Newhaven Marina and moor up on their visitors’ pontoon for a small charge.

MARINA FOCUS

repairs, maintenance, storage and boat sales. With over 55 years’ experience, they cater to both commercial and leisure customers with facilities including a repairs and service workshop, crane and undercover workshop space, ensuring high-quality service throughout the year.

engineers can repair, service and rebuild most makes of marine engine and drive systems.

They are also the UK importers of Smartliner, Texas and Jomo boats, dealers for 3D Tender and have a large brokerage o ering pre-owned vessels.

Security is a top priority, with CCTV monitoring, gated access and on-site sta ensuring peace of mind for boat owners. Their expert team is also available to assist with maintenance, antifoul removal, valeting and preparation for launch. The boatyard is serviced by a 50 ton crane and 15 ton boat mover, allowing for safe and e cient launching and recovery.

Smaller craft can navigate the River Ouse as far as Lewes through the Ouse Valley. The breathtaking area of outstanding natural beauty really is a must-see!

OUT AND ABOUT

With its coastal charm and strategic location, Newhaven is a great base for exploring the Sussex coast and beyond.

Newhaven is a historic port town with a mix of natural beauty, maritime heritage and modern amenities. One of its key attractions is the Newhaven Fort, a 19th-century military fort o ering fascinating exhibitions and panoramic views of the coast.

The town also features a busy working harbour, home to fishing vessels, ferries and marinas.

Visitors will also find local shops, cafés, pubs and a weekly market, contributing to its friendly, smalltown feel.

Tide Mills, an abandoned 18thcentury village nearby, o ers a unique blend of history and wildlife.

Nature lovers can also explore the nearby South Downs National Park or enjoy walks along the cli tops of Seaford Head.

The Newhaven-Dieppe ferry provides direct access to France, making it a convenient gateway to Europe.

BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA

Where to eat and drink:

The Bridge, The Ship Hotel, The Hope Inn, Horaces Fish and Chips, The Drove (next door to Premier Inn), Mamoosh Riverside. Things to do:

Garden Paradise - A popular attraction with gardens, a heritage trail and a Museum of Life featuring dinosaur exhibits and fossil collection.

Sussex boat trips - O ering one hour excursions, two hour boat trips for those wanting to go a little further afield and private skippered charters.

Newhaven Maritime MuseumA must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of this charming coastal town.

Seahaven swimming pool and leisure centre - A family friendly indoor swimming pool with children’s pool.

West Beach - For a swim in the English Channel.

Brighton - Jump on a bus or train and head to the nearby cosmopolitan seaside city of Brighton.

Peter Leonard Marine

Denton Island, Newhaven, East Sussex BN9 9BA

Plmarine.com

info@plmarine 01273 515987

Berth holders often head east or west to Brighton and Eastbourne marinas and enjoy a meal and an overnight stay.

What3words location ///harps.inclines.adhesive

Peter Leonard Marine boat sales o ers a good selection of new and used boats. They are importers of Smartliner Fishing boats, Texas Weekenders, Jomo rotomoulded boats and are dealers for 3D Tender and Inflatable boats. They are a Sales and Service centre for Suzuki, Tohatsu, Yamaha and Honda outboards and are approved installers for Garmin marine electronics.

Peter Leonard Marine Chandlery is a well stocked chandlery and caters for motorboaters and yachties alike.

PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION

“I have used Peter Leonard Marine in multiple capacities over eight years now. From the purchase, servicing, craning out, craning back in, moorings, chandlery, maintenance and general advice (that is free). I am always o ered co ee and they always ask how I am. They have always met my budget and deadlines; they have always quite simply delivered and exceeded my expectations. They are integral to the local community, they keep local rescue organisations afloat and everything about ‘boats’ is in their DNA, now a second generation family business. I would always go to them for advice, quotes and steering before anyone else.”

Daisy (berth holder)

The view of Newhaven looking from Seaford

MARINA GUIDE

LONDON

ST KATHARINE DOCKS

Manager: Paul Atkins

50 St. Katharine’s Way, London, E1W 1LA

T: 0207 264 5312

E: marina.reception@skdocks.co.uk

W: ww.skdocks.co.uk

SOUTH WEST

PREMIER MARINAS FALMOUTH

Manager: Mark Evans

North Parade, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 2TD

T: 01326 316620

E: falmouth@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

PORT PENDENNIS MARINA

Manager: Mark Webster

Challenger Quay, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3YL

T: 01326 211211

E: marina@portpendennis.com

W: www.portpendennis.com

MYLOR YACHT HARBOUR

Manager/contact: Culum Matheson

Mylor Churchtown, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 5UF

T: 01326 372 121

E: marina@mylor.com

W: www.mylor.com

FALMOUTH HAVEN

Contact: Daisy Gould

44 Arwenack Street, Falmouth, TR11 3JQ

T: 01326 310990

E: welcome@falmouthhaven.co.uk

W: www.falmouthhaven.co.uk

MAYFLOWER MARINA

Manager: Charles Bush

Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4LS

T: 01752 556633

E: info@mayflowermarina.co.uk

W: www.mayflowermarina.co.uk

PLYMOUTH YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Steve Cox

Shaw Way, Mount Batten, Devon, PL9 9XH

T: 01752 404231

E: plymouth@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

YACHT HAVEN QUAY, PLYMOUTH

Manager: Richard Brown

Breakwater Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL9 7FE

T: 01752 481190

E: boatyard@yachthavenquay.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

MDL QUEEN ANNE’S BATTERY

Manager: Alex Warner

Plymouth, Devon, PL4 0LP

T: 01752 671142

E: qab@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.queenannesbattery.co.uk

SUTTON HARBOUR MARINA

Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe

Sutton Harbour, Plymouth PL4 0DW

T: 01752 204702

E: marina@sutton-harbour.co.uk

W: www.suttonharbourmarina.com

KING POINT MARINA

Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe

Brunel Way, Milbay, Plymouth, PL1 3EF T: 01752 424297

E: marina@kingpointmarina.co.uk

W: www.kingpointmarina.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS NOSS ON DART

Manager: Mike Smith Bridge Road, Kingswear, Dartmouth Devon, TQ6 0EA T: 01803 839087

E: noss@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

DOLPHIN BOATYARD

Galmpton Creek, Brixham, Devon T: 01803 842424

E: info@dolphinhaven.co.uk

W: www.dolphin-haven.co.uk

MDL BRIXHAM MARINA

Manager: Martyn Sherratt

Berry Head Road, Devon, TQ5 9BW T: 01803 882929

E: brixham@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.brixhammarina.co.uk

MDL TORQUAY MARINA

Manager: Martyn Sherratt

Torquay, Devon, TQ2 5EQ T: 01803 200210

E: torquaymarina@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.torquaymarina.co.uk

WATCHET MARINA

Manager: Matt Driscoll Harbour O ce, Watchet, TA23 0AQ T: 01984 322230

E: info@westernmarinas.co.uk

W: www.westernmarinas.co.uk

WEYMOUTH MARINA BY BOATFOLK

Manager: Neil Bedwell Commercial Road, Weymouth Dorset, DT4 8NA T: 01305 767576

E: weymouth@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

WEYMOUTH HARBOUR

Manager/contact - Ed Carter 13 Custom House Quay, Weymouth

T: 01305 838423

E: weymouthharbour@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

W: www.weymouth-harbour.co.uk

PORTLAND MARINA BY BOATFOLK

Manager: Paul Swain

Osprey Quay, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1DX

T: 01305 866190

E: portland@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

LAKE YARD MARINA

Manager/contact - Jenny Burrows

Lake Drive, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4DT

T: 01202 674531

E: o ce@lakeyard.com

W: www.lakeyard.com

POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN

Manager: Kerrie Gray

Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HJ

T/F: 01202 649488

E: info@poolequayboathaven.co.uk

W: www.poolequayboathaven.co.uk

PORT OF POOLE MARINA

Manager: Kerrie Gray

Poole Quay Boat Haven, Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HJ

T/F: 01202 649 488

E: info@poolequayboathaven.co.uk

W: www.poolequayboathaven.co.uk

SALTERNS MARINA LTD

Manager: Robert Golden

40 Salterns Way, Lilliput, Poole, Dorset, BH14 8JR

T: 01202 709971 F: 01202 700398

E: reception@salterns.co.uk

W: www.salterns.co.uk

MDL COBB’S QUAY MARINA

Manager: Kelly Trewern

Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4EL

T: 01202 674299

E: cobbsquay@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.cobbsquaymarina.co.uk

LYMINGTON YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Rupert Wagsta

Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD

T: 01590 677071

E: lymington@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

BUCKLER’S HARD YACHT HARBOUR

Harbour Master: Wendy Stowe

Harbour Master’s O ce, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour, Hampshire, SO42 7XB

T: 01590 616200

E: harbour.o ce@beaulieu.co.uk W: www.beaulieuriver.co.uk

HAVEN QUAY, LYMINGTON

Manager: Matt Toms

Haven Quay Dry Stack, Mill Lane, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 9AZ

T: 01590 677072

E: havenquay@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

DEACONS MARINA BY BOATFOLK

Contact name: Julie Spensley-Corfield

Bursledon Bridge, Southampton SO31 8AZ

T: 023 80 402253

E: deacons@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

MDL HYTHE MARINA VILLAGE

Manager: Debbie Scott

The Lock Building, Shamrock Way Hythe, Southampton, Hampshire, SO45 6DY

T: 023 8020 7073

E: hythe@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.hythemarinavillage.co.uk

SCOTTISH EXPANSION

Tingdene Group has acquired Holy Loch Marina, in Sandbank, near Dunoon on Scotland’s Cowal Peninsula. This is the company’s second marina acquisition this year, and its first expansion into Scottish waters.

With deep-water berths and direct access to some of the finest cruising grounds on the west coast of Scotland, Holy Loch Marina is a favourite among local and visiting boaters alike.

A key boating destination on the Firth of Clyde, the marina o ers more than 200 fully serviced berths, visitor berths, a well-equipped boatyard with hoist and slipway, on-site fuel and a range of shoreside services including marine engineering, chandlery and hospitality businesses.

Holy Loch Marina has been familyrun by the Downs family for over 25 years, originally developed by the late Matthew Downs. His children, Alison Allan and Stuart Downs, will continue to be actively involved under Tingdene’s ownership.

MDL OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA

Manager: Lauren McCann

Marina O ce, 2 Channel Way, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3TG

T: 023 8022 9385

E: oceanvillage@mdlmarinas.co.u

W: www.oceanvillagemarina.co.uk

MDL SHAMROCK QUAY

Manager: Barry Radband

William Street, Northam, Southampton Hampshire, SO14 5QL

T: 023 8022 9461

E: shamrockquay@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.shamrockquay.co.uk

MDL SAXON WHARF

Manager: Lauren McCann

Lower York Street, Northam, Southampton, SO14 5QF

T: 023 8033 9490

E: saxonwharf@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.saxonwharf.co.uk

MDL HAMBLE POINT MARINA

Manager: Dominic Brown

School Lane, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire, SO31 4NB

T: 023 8045 2464

E: hamblepoint@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.hamblepointmarina.co.uk

MDL PORT HAMBLE MARINA

Manager: Bertie Marsh

Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire, SO31 4QD

T: 023 8045 274,1

E: porthamble@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W:www.porthamblemarina.co.uk

TOWN QUAY MARINA

Associated British Ports, Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ

T: 023 8023 4397

E: info@townquay.com

W:www.townquay.com

“This marina has been a huge part of our lives,” said Alison. “It is more than just a place — it is a community that reflects our father’s vision. While it is time for us to hand over ownership, we are proud to continue working here and excited about what the future holds under Tingdene.”

Ian Collier, Managing Director of Tingdene Group, said: “Holy Loch Marina is a welcome addition to our growing marina portfolio. Its stunning location, established reputation and strong berth holder community make it an ideal fit for the group. We are excited to continue the great work already happening here.”

MDL MERCURY YACHT HARBOUR

Manager: Debbie Burns SatchellLane, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4HQ T: 023 8045 5994 E: mercury@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS SWANWICK

Manager: Graham Bristowe Swanwick (on the Hamble) Southampton, Hants, SO31 1ZL T: 01489 884081

E: swanwick@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

HAMBLE YACHT SERVICES

Port Hamble, Hamble,Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4NN T: 02380 201501 E: info@hysgroup.co.uk W: www.hambleyachtservices.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS UNIVERSAL

Manager: Martin Bowman Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 7ZN T: 01489574272 E: universal@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

HASLAR MARINA BY BOATFOLK

Manager: Ben Lippiett

Haslar Road, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1NU T: 023 9260 1201 F: 023 9260 2201

E: haslar@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS GOSPORT

Manager: Jonathan Walcroft

Mumby Road, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1AH

T: 023 9252 4811

F: 023 9258 9541

E: gosport@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

GPSMAPX3 SERIES

Touchscreen chartplotters in 7″, 9″, 12″ and 16″

MARINAS ACQUIRED

Aquavista has announced an expansion of the company’s marina portfolio with the acquisition of three marinas in the North West of England: Fettlers Wharf Marina near Ormskirk and Furness Vale Marina (pictured) and Marple Marina near Stockport.

Aquavista CEO Steve de Polo said: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of these three North West-based marinas which are in excellent locations, complementary to our existing network of 29 marinas.

We pride ourselves on investing in our marinas and waterside teams, ensuring that our customers’ lives by the water are made as easy as possible. I am looking forward to working with the moorers at these three new locations to further improve their marina experience as we bring them into the Aquavista network.”

Aquavista’s customers across all 32 marinas will now have even more choice of where to use their Explore 100 and Marina Swap benefits.

AROUND THE MARINAS

MDL Marinas has contributed to a joint £3,000 donation to SERV Kent – Service by Emergency Response Volunteers – through matched funding, supporting a fundraising initiative led by tenant Network Yacht Brokers Kent. The funds will help SERV Kent continue its volunteer-led work delivering urgent medical items to NHS hospitals across Kent, 24 hours a day.

Falmouth Harbour is now among the Harbours and Port Authorities in the UK using renewable HVO to fuel its fleet of workboats. A £50,000, 6,500 litre refuelling facility has been created at the Harbour’s Marine Hub with 50 per cent match-funding from Cornwall Council’s Growth Hub Grants Programme.

As the marina industry continues to evolve, so too does the demand for skilled, forward-thinking professionals. Responding to this need, British Marine’s Intermediate Marina Manager and Advanced Marina Management courses are growing in popularity, with dates scheduled across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. These programmes o er marina professionals the chance to elevate their expertise, build international credentials and join a global network of leaders shaping the future of the industry.

Safe Harbor Marinas has acquired Los Sueños Marina in Costa Rica, further expanding its international portfolio. It includes 200 wet slips and 166 dry slips, along with a fuel dock, restaurants and hospitality services, and can accommodate vessels up to 180ft.

Boathouse Chichester, a restaurant in the heart of Chichester Marina, brought the local community together for an afternoon of live music, food and relaxed summer vibes at its first summer party, the first in a series of community-focused events created by the restaurant to connect with local

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT

In celebration of their ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, Premier Marinas has announced the retention of its EcoVadis Silver rating, placing them in the top 11 per cent of companies assessed by EcoVadis.

To mark this achievement and continue driving local environmental e orts, Premier Marinas teamed up with Sea Angling Classic and Veolia to host a community coastal walk and litter pick around Portchester Castle on World Ocean Day.

Encouraging community involvement in preserving and protecting our coastline, over 60 volunteers came together on the day with a shared goal:

AQUAVISTA ROYAL CLARENCE

WATERSIDE & MARINA

Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1AX

T: 023 9252 3523

E: royalclarence@aquavista.com

W: www.aquavista.com

PREMIER MARINAS PORT SOLENT

Manager: Mark Phillp

residents and celebrate the talent and produce found in West Sussex.

More than 10,000 customers across D-Marin’s marinas are now using Smart Sensors to enhance safety, security and peace of mind while away from their craft. The Smart Sensors deliver round-the-clock monitoring and instant alerts for risks including water ingress, battery overheating, fire and unauthorised movement. Alerts are integrated directly with the D-Marin app and received simultaneously by marina teams, on standby 24/7.

A new, self-contained pumpout facility has been installed next to the fuel berth in MDL’s Hythe Marina Village by marine sanitation specialists LeeSan.

It is a LeeSan LS200W-ATEX, featuring stop start function and will be controlled by Hythe’s on-site fuel/pump operator.

US marina owner and operator, Suntex Marina Investors has announced the opening of its latest boat club location at Saguaro Lake Marina in Mesa, Arizona. It is the 24th site in the Suntex Boat Club portfolio, which now covers 10 states.

Construction of a new 700-berth marina, Marina Motril, is set to begin in March on Spain’s Costa Tropical within the Port of Motril. It will replace the Club Náutico and dry marina and is scheduled to open by spring 2028.

Safe Harbor Marinas has finalised the acquisition of Monaco Marine, marking the American company’s first foothold in the European market.

Demre Marina in Türkiye has o cially opened, adding 700 berths to the country’s growing maritime infrastructure. The marina has a mooring capacity of 450 at sea and 250 on land. The facilities accommodate short-term visits and longer stays, supporting year-round yacht tourism.

to protect our shoreline and reduce marine litter. Walking the scenic and historic coastal route around Portchester Castle and Premier Trafalgar Wharf, an incredible community e ort resulted in 92kg of coastal waste being cleared in just one afternoon.

Premier Marinas saw the event as a key opportunity to turn sustainability pledges into action.

“We are incredibly proud to retain our EcoVadis Silver rating and continue leading the way in sustainable marina management,” says Peter Wortley, EHS Manager at Premier Marinas.

“As a Group, we are in a position of responsibility to maintain the environment in which we operate

and where our customers enjoy spending time. This community cleanup allowed us to work further with Sea Angling Classic and Veolia to bring people together in support of environmental care.”

COWES HARBOUR SHEPARDS MARINA

Manager: Jock Ra erty

Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT

T: 01983 297821

E: shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk

W: cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk

ISLAND HARBOUR MARINA

Manager: Danie Erasmus

South Lockside, Port Solent, Portsmouth,Hampshire, PO6 4TJ

T: 023 9221 0765

F: 023 9232 4241

E: portsolent@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

PREMIER MARINAS SOUTHSEA

Manager: Dave Frey

Fort Cumberland Road

Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO4 9RJ

T: 023 9282 2719

F: 023 9282 2220

E: southsea@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

GUNWHARF QUAYS MARINA

Manager: Carl Jarmaine

Gunwharf Quays, Marina O ce Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3TZ

T: 02392 836732

E: gwqmarina@incentive-fm.com

W: www.gunwharf-quays.com/marina

ISLE OF WIGHT

COWES YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Katy Ednay

Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, PO31 7BD

T: 01983 299975

E: berthing@cowesyachthaven.com

W:www.cowesyachthaven.com

VHF: Channel 80

EAST COWES MARINA BY BOATFOLK

Manager: Mike Townshend

Britannia Way, East Cowes

Isle of Wight, PO32 6UB

T: 01983 293983

F: 01983 299276

E: eastcowes@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA

T: 01983 539994

E: info@island-harbour.co.uk

W:www.island-harbour.co.uk

BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR

Jack Miskin, Harbour Master

The Duver, St Helens, PO33 1YB

T: 01983 872828

E: mail@bembridgeharbour.co.uk

W: www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk

YARMOUTH HARBOUR

Harbour O ce, The Quay, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT

T: 01983 760321

E: info@yarmouth-harbour.co.uk

W: www.yarmouth-harbour.co.uk

VHF: Ch 68 (harbour), Ch 15 (water taxi)

SOUTH EAST

MDL NORTHNEY MARINA

Manager: Tom Ward

Northney Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0NH

T: 023 9246 6321

E: northney@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.northneymarina.co.uk

MDL SPARKES MARINA

Manager: James Rizzi

38 Wittering Road, Hayling Island Hampshire, PO11 9SR

T: 023 9246 3572

E: sparkes@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.sparkesmarina.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS CHICHESTER

Manager: Andrew Collumbell Birdham (Chichester Harbour) West Sussex, PO20 7EJ

T: 01243 512731

E: chichester@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

AQUAVISTA BIRDHAM POOL WATERSIDE & MARINA

Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BG T: 01243 512310

E: birdhampool@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com

LITTLEHAMPTON MARINA

Berthing Manager: Darren Humphries Ferry Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 5DS

T: 01903 713553 F: 01903 732264

E: sales@littlehamptonmarina.co.uk W: www.littlehamptonmarina.co.uk

LITTLEHAMPTON YACHT CLUB

Rope House, Rope Walk Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 5DH

T: 01903 732 926 F: 01903 725 911

E: fiona@littlehamptonyachtclub.co.uk W: www.littlehamptonyachtclub.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS BRIGHTON

Manager: Mike Hatch

West Jetty, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 5UP

T: 01273 819919 F: 01273 675082

E: brighton@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

PREMIER MARINAS EASTBOURNE

Manager: Dan Heckford

Sovereign Harbour, North Lockside, Pacific Drive, Eastbourne, BN23 5BJ

T: 01323 470099 F: 01323 470077

E: sovereignharbour@premiermarinas.com

W: www.premiermarinas.com

SMALL BOATS WELCOME

NEWHAVEN MARINA

Manager/Contact: Russell Levett

Newhaven Marina, The Yacht Harbour, Fort Road, Newhaven, BN9 9BY T: 01273 513 881

E: info@newhavenmarina.co.uk

W: www.newhavenmarina.co.uk

LADY BEE MARINA, SHOREHAM PORT

Manager: Julian Goldie

Lady Bee Marina and Chandlery, 138-140

Albion Street, Southwick, BN42 4EG T: 01273 591705

E: LBChandlery@shoreham-port.co.uk

W:www.shoreham-port.co.uk/chandlery

GPSMAPX3 SERIES

KENT

GILLINGHAM MARINA

Manager: Chris Aldous

173 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent ME7 1UB

T: 01634 280022

E: berthing@gillingham-marina.co.uk

W: www.gillingham-marina.co.uk

MDL CHATHAM MARITIME MARINA

Manager: Emma Powell

The Lock Building, Leviathan Way, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4LP

T: 01634 899200

E: chatham@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: chathammaritimemarina.co.uk

MEDWAY YACHT CLUB

Contact: Sue Bannister

Lower Upnor, Rochester, ME2 4XB

T: 01634 718399

W:www.medwayyachtclub.com

PORT OF DOVER MARINA

Manager: Chris Windsor

Dover Marina O ce Esplanade

Dover

Kent CT17 9FS

T: 01304 241663

E: marina@portofdover.com

W: portofdover.com/marina

SURREY

MDL PENTON HOOK MARINA

Manager: Benedict Moran Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 8PY

T: 01932 568681

E: pentonhook@mdlmarinas.co.uk

SUFFOLK

MDL WOOLVERSTONE MARINA

Manager: Shane Cheshire

Woolverstone, Ipswich, Su olk IP9 1AS

T: 01473 780206

E: woolverstone@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.woolverstonemarina.co.uk

LOWESTOFT HAVEN MARINA

Manager: Bob Beare

Lowestoft Haven Marina (twin site), School Road and Hamilton Dock

Marina O ce, School Road

Lowestoft, Su olk NR33 9NB

T: 01502 580300 F: 01502 581851

E: lowerstofthaven@abports.co.uk

W: lowestofthavenmarina.co.uk

FOX’S MARINA & BOATYARD

Marina Manager: Lee Gilson

Fox’s Marina, Ipswich Su olk IP2 8SA

T: 01473 689111

E: foxs@foxsmarina.com

W: www.foxsmarina.com

ESSEX

FAMBRIDGE YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Danyal Adams

Chelmsford, CM3 6LU T: 01621 740370

E: fambridge@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

WALES

ABERYSTWYTH MARINA

Manager: Adam Knowles

NEYLAND YACHT HAVEN

Manager: James Cotton

Brunel Quay, Pembrokeshire SA73 1PY T: 01646 601601

E: neyland@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

PORT DINORWIC MARINA

Dock Manager: Kevin Roberts Y Felinheli, Gwynedd LL56 4JN

T: 01248 671500

E: sharon@portdinorwic.co.uk

W: www.port-dinorwic.co.uk

BURRY PORT MARINA

Harbour Master: Robert Hockey

The Harbour O ce, Burry Port Carmarthenshire T: 01554 835 691

E: Info@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

N. IRELAND

BANGOR MARINA

Manager: Kevin Baird

Bangor, Co. Down T: 02891 45329

E: bangor@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

CARRICKFERGUS MARINA

Harbour Master: Ryan Hack

Marina Manager: Karen Steelen

3 Quayside, Carrickfergus BT38 8BJ

T: 028 9336 6666

E: harbour.master@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

W: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

BRISTOL

PORTISHEAD MARINA

SCOTLAND

RHU MARINA

Contact: Suzanne Bell Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LH

T: 01436 820238

E: rhu@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

LARGS YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Dave Hewitt Irvine Road, Largs Ayrshire KA30 8EZ T: 01475 675333

E: largs@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

TROON YACHT HAVEN

Manager: Stephen Bennie The Harbour, Troon Ayrshire KA10 6DJ T: 01292 315553

E: troon@yachthavens.com

W: www.yachthavens.com

SPAIN

MDL SANT CARLES MARINA

Manager: Nicolas Gonzalez Ctra Poble Nou s/n, Apartat de Correus 192, 43540 Sant Carles de la Ràpita, Spain T: (0034) 9777 45153

T (UK): 023 8045 0227 enquiries@santcarlesmarina.com W: www.santcarlesmarina.com

ITALY

MARINARA

Front Desk: Federica Civilla Via Marinara 11, Marina di Ravenna, 48122 Italy

T: (0039) 0544 531644

E: info@marinara.it W: www.marinara.it

WANT YOUR MARINA INCLUDED HERE?

Y Lanfa Aberystwyth, Trefechan SY23 1AS

T: 01970 611422

E: info@westernmarinas.co.uk

W: www.westernmarinas.co.uk

CARDIFF MARINA

W: www.pentonhookmarina.co.uk

BERKSHIRE

MDL WINDSOR MARINA

Manager: John Harris Maidenhead Road, Windsor Berkshire SL4 5TZ

T: 01753 853911

E: windsor@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.windsormarina.co.uk

MDL BRAY MARINA

Manager: John Harris Monkey Island Lane, Bray Berkshire SL6 2EB

T: 01628 623654

E: bray@mdlmarinas.co.uk

W: www.braymarina.co.uk

LANCASHIRE

AQUAVISTA GLASSON

WATERSIDE & MARINA

School Lane, Glasson Dock, Lancaster, Lancashire LA2 0AW

T: 01524 751491

E: glasson@aquavista.com

Manager: Andy Coles OBE

Watkiss Way

Cardi CF11 0SY

T: 02920 396078 F: 02920 345116

E: info@westernmarinas.co.uk

W: www.westernmarinas.co.uk

CONWY MARINA

Manager: Jon Roberts

Conwy Marina, Ellis Way LL32 8GU

T: 01492 593000

E: conwy@boatfolk.co.uk

W:www.boatfolk.co.uk

MILFORD MARINA

Manager or contact: Melanie Durney Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire SA73 3AF Tel: 01646 696312

E: enquiries@milfordmarina.com W: www.milfordmarina.com

Manager: Simon Davis

Portishead, Bristol BS20 7DF

T: 01275 841941

E: portishead@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

NEWCASTLE

ROYAL QUAYS MARINA

Manager: Matt Simms

North Shields, Tyneside NE29 6DU T: 01912 728282

E: royalquays@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

YORKSHIRE

AQUAVISTA HULL WATERSIDE & MARINA

Warehouse 13, Kingston Street, Hull

Yorkshire HU1 2DQ

T: 01482 609960

E: hull@aquavista.com

HOLLAND

JACHTHAVEN BIESBOSCH

Manager: Maarten Voskuil Nieuwe Jachthaven 54924 BA, Drimmelen, NL

T: +31 (0)162 682249

E: info@jachthavenbiesbosch.nl

W: www.jachthavenbiesbosch.nl

W: www.aquavista.com

LIVERPOOL

NEYLAND YACHT HAVEN

PENARTH MARINA

Manager: Stuart Jones

Penarth

Vale of Glamorgan F64 1TQ

T: 02920 705021

E: penarth@boatfolk.co.uk

W: www.aquavista.com

W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

LIVERPOOL MARINA

Manager: Daniel O’Dea

Liverpool Marina, Coburg Wharf, L34BP

T: 0151 707 6777

E: reception@liverpoolmarina.com

E: manager@liverpoolmarina.com W: www.liverpoolmarina.com

Located within the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, significant improvements have been completed at Neyland Yacht Haven following a substantial investment in the site’s infrastructure and amenities.

Over £1million has been invested to redesign and extend the main marina building, resulting in the addition of new, luxury washroom facilities for berth holders and visiting boaters. The Bar Restaurant has also undergone a major transformation. The dining area has been expanded to include a new snug lounge area

with Sky TV, while the kitchen has been upgraded and enlarged. Guests can now enjoy a revamped interior, an extended outdoor terrace with views over the marina and estuary, and a new food and drinks menu.

“This has been a significant investment and upgrade of our facilities,” said James Cotton, Marina Director. “We are thrilled with the positive feedback from berth holders and visitors, who are already enjoying the modern amenities, thoughtful features and the enhanced dining experience upstairs.”

waterlodge in Yarmouth Harbour

This prize is for a 2 night stay for up to 4 people in one of their two-bedroomed Waterlodges between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026. Equipped with everything you need for a short break, you can wine and dine your loved ones or alternatively, visit one of the many eateries in Yarmouth town, just a two minute walk away.

The Waterlodges o er stunning harbour views and a tranquil atmosphere. Spend your days exploring nearby beaches, wandering the historic town or simply unwinding on the deck whilst watching the boats go by. As evening falls, enjoy spectacular sunsets over the water with your favourite tipple. T&Cs apply.

Discover more about these amazing lodges, visit: yarmouthwaterlodges.com

To be in with the chance of winning this great prize enter below, at www.allatsea.co.uk or by email to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header Yarmouth Harbour Waterlodge Break Competition. You can also enter via the All at Sea newsletter (sign up at www.allatsea.co.uk/aasnewsletter).

Q: Which Isle of Wight town is known for its charming harbour and o ers a unique waterlodge experience?

Onboard with BOATSHED

Every month Neil Chapman, founder of Boatshed.com, discusses important topics in the marine industry and offers advice for buying and owning boats.

Here is a simple idea for youbring back some of the hards, of which there were once thousands around the coast.

Every month in All at Sea I share ideas, covering everything from boating to technology, plus advocating public access to the coast. This month’s topic is as old as tide itself; hards. Specifically stone hards - those shallow, tidal access points that used to line every harbour, inlet and village shoreline in Britain. Not slipways, ramps or boatyards. Just hards. Gently sloped, stone-laid areas where people could get to the water, or into it, on foot, with a trolley or dragging a dinghy behind them. We used to have thousands. We could bring some back.

WHAT IS A HARD?

A hard is the most honest kind of coastal infrastructure. It is not built on the coast, it is built with it. A stretch of foreshore extended, using locally-sourced stone or rubble, loosely laid and naturally graded. The result is a walkable, usable slope that extends the functional edge of the land further into the tide.

Historically, hards let you reach the water at more states of tide, without slipping through mud or sinking into sand. They did not belong to marinas or ports. They were public, shared, low-key. In places like Portsmouth Harbour, hards were central to daily life - used by ferry crews, fishermen, families and watermen alike.

Today, many still exist, some visible at low tide, others lost under silt or buried by fences. Most are dormant. But they have not disappeared. They are just waiting.

REBUILDING WITH STONE

It is a simple idea - bring back a handful of these hards, using nothing but stone. No concrete, resin grids, binders or anchors. Just gravel or rubble of the right size - local, inert, clean - laid gently to recreate the gradient of the old hard.

The technique is the same as it always was:

n Drop a few tonnes of appropriate stone onto the spot

n Spread it to follow the natural slope

n Let the tide shape it in

n Walk away

It becomes a usable surface from that day on, useful for walkers, paddlers, swimmers, small-boat owners. Not for cars or trailers. Just a bit more foothold where the land meets the sea.

You are not building anything. You are extending the shoreline, ever so slightly, using the same methods and materials that made coastal access possible for centuries.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Let us be clear, this is not a one-size-fits-all material. But it does not need to be complicated. There will be, must be, a type of stone aggregate available in most coastal regions that is:

n Local and geologically appropriate

n Graded to settle well

n Too heavy to wash away easily

n Not so fine that it clogs or silts

n Not so coarse that it shifts or scatters

Think of it like path gravel, but tuned for tide.

Or chunky drainage stone without sharp edges. Some areas might prefer crushed flint or brick, others might have access to granite chippings, rounded shingle or dredge-screened ballast.

This is local knowledge territory, the kind of thing coastal builders and fishermen have known for generations.

You do not need an engineer. You need a barge, a bucket and someone who knows the tides.

RESTORING POSSIBILITY

This is not about building infrastructure, it is about restoring possibility. A few tonnes of well-placed stone makes all the difference to:

n The paddleboarder walking down to the sea

n The swimmer wanting somewhere stable to enter at mid-tide

n The kayak instructor trying to gather a group without slipping in the mud

n The person who just wants to sit with their feet in the sea

You are not creating a facility. You are creating permission - subtle, durable space that says, ‘You can go to the water here’.

NO CONCRETE, COST OR CATCH

There are no bollards, lighting or signage. You do not need planning permission for a fence, because there is not one. You are not changing the shoreline, you are just reasserting it. And because it is just stone, it comes with a simple guarantee - if it does not work, we will take it away.

No permanent footprint or scarring - no legacy to clean up. Just a few men with shovels, and the job is reversed. This makes the project ideal for coastal councils, harbour boards and environmental bodies who do not want more permanent infrastructure. It is light-touch, lowbudget, low-risk.

It also has historic legitimacy. These places used to exist. They still do. You are not creating something new, you are simply reviving what is already written into the coastline.

“You are not creating something new, you are simply reviving what is already written into the coastline”

HOW MANY COULD WE REVIVE?

Estimates from heritage surveys, slipway audits and archaeological datasets suggest Britain had between 3,000 and 5,000 working hards at one point. Maybe 1,000 of those remain in some form. Hundreds more could be restored this way, especially in estuaries, tidal harbours and smaller coastal villages.

You would need to:

n Map them (historic OS charts are a good start)

n Visit at low tide

n Speak to the local authority or landowner

n Drop a few tonnes of stone

n Start with three and if they are used, do 10 more

Re looking for someone to map them, I am sure some of my nerdier colleagues at Boatshed.com could spin up an AI drone-mapping system and rope in a few local drone pilots to research the UK coastline.

FINAL THOUGHT

You do not need infrastructure to reach the sea. You need the right kind of stone, in the right place, placed with care and nothing else. Then it is just walk down, barefoot or booted, and meet the water on your terms.

If you know a spot where a hard once was, let me know (email All at Sea’s editor). Let us map them, one by one, and see what comes of it.

POOLE QUAY

BOAT HAVEN

POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN

POOLE QUAY

POOLE QUAY

BOAT HAVEN

BOAT HAVEN

SWINGING MOORINGS

Relax with a glass of wine, on a sunny afternoon, on your own swinging mooring in Poole Harbour overlooking Brownsea Island. Away from the madding crowd, these offer you ultimate privacy, peace & tranquillity.

PORT OF POOLE

PORT OF POOLE

PORT OF POOLE MARINA

PORT OF POOLE

VISITOR MARINA

125 visitor berths all year for vessels up to 75m in length and up to 4.8m draft

On the Port estate we can accommodate vessels up to 210m in length with a maximum draft of 9m.