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SEPTEMBER 2026
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BOAT SHOWCASE The new Swanwick Yachting Showcase takes place this month PAGE 6
LARGEST YACHT
Southampton’s Ocean Village Marina has welcomed its largest superyacht PAGE 8
Meridian of the World (0° longitude) in 1884. Paddy Rodgers, Director, CEO, Royal Museums Greenwich, said: “This is a lovely object, with beauty and functionality, which sits at a lovely intersection between navigation, Darwin’s emerging science of evolution and FitzRoy’s emerging status as a pioneer of meteorology. The charting of the globe with the Greenwich meridian at
WORLD CHAMPIONS! Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris have been crowned 470 world champions in Enoshima, Japan, completing an incredible season for the British partnership. The duo claimed their first world title, building on a remarkable run of form that has seen them win the European title
in Vilamoura in February, followed by a victory on LA28 Olympic waters at the San Pedro OCR in the summer. Bettine said: “Becoming world champions is an incredible feeling, and it is something Martin and I have worked so hard for. We have been through
a lot together since we started this partnership, and the trust and belief we have in each other is a huge part of why we have been able to achieve this.” Teammates and training partners Hannah Bristow and James Taylor also delivered a great week of sailing to finish
its centre, the understanding of evolution and the mapping of weather systems are all cross-referenced by one very special timepiece. What a treasure!” The chronometer was acquired following a successful fundraising campaign with support from Art Fund, Society for Nautical Research, The Tanlaw Foundation, National Heritage Memorial Fund and private individuals. sixth overall, narrowly missing out on a medal in a tightly contested fleet. Martin and Bettine will defend their world title next June at the World Sailing Championships in Gdynia, Poland. This will also be the first chance to secure Great Britain a place in the 470 class at the LA 2028 Olympics. The 470 is a high-performance two-person dinghy, renowned for its combination of speed, technical precision and close teamwork. Designed in the 1960s, it made its Olympic debut at Montreal 1976 and has been a mainstay of the Games ever since. Since Tokyo 2020, the 470 has been sailed as a mixed-gender event, bringing a new dimension to the class. The 470 result marks the start of a potentially historic few months for British sailing. Andy Brown and Emma Wilson will both defend their world titles on home waters as Weymouth & Portland hosts the iQFOiL World Championships from 7 - 12 September, marking the first time the UK will stage a major championship in the class and the first Olympic windsurfing world title event on British waters since 2009. There are also with strong medal hopes in both the ILCA 6 and ILCA 7 classes at their world championships in Ireland.
SOLO RACE START
Golden Globe Race sailors leave France to race more than 28,000nm PAGE 10 Image: C.Gregory/GB1
Image: 470 Olympic Sailing / Junichi Hirai
The Royal Observatory still holds the ledger books in which staff recorded the sea lives of these chronometers. As Admiralty hydrographers surveyed the globe, they relied on these timekeepers for measuring locations relative to Greenwich. Decades later, the widespread use of these British charts based on the Greenwich meridian contributed to its designation as Prime
Image: JJ / GGR2026
The National Maritime Museum, Greenwich has acquired a rare pocket chronometer – a timekeeper used on ships to determine longitude while navigating at sea – known as ‘K’, which will go on display in October. It is one of only two surviving pocket chronometers from the Beagle Voyage (1831 - 1836), the expedition during which Charles Darwin carried out research leading to his theory of evolution. HMS Beagle set sail to survey the coasts of South America, but the voyage is now most famous for the research carried out by Darwin. During the expedition, he collected specimens, recorded observations and sketched the flora and fauna he encountered. This work later became evidence for his groundbreaking theory of evolution. Robert FitzRoy, captain of the Beagle, took 22 chronometers on the voyage. He selected ‘K’ as the observation chronometer and referred to it affectionately as the ‘journeyman watch’. Whilst most of the chronometers remained secure in the captain’s cabin, FitzRoy took this pocket watch on shore to measure the celestial observations essential to his timekeeping measurements. Funded by the Admiralty since 1818, the Royal Observatory, Greenwich played an important role in the management and testing of Royal Navy chronometers in this period. The Astronomer Royal, John Pond, reported on the best instruments and these were reserved for the Beagle voyage. Francis Beaufort, the Hydrographer of the Navy – the officer responsible for the production of charts – specifically requested pocket chronometer ‘K’ for use on the voyage.
Image: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich
HISTORIC POCKET CHRONOMETER
IN THE NEWS…
CUP ROUND-UP
38th America’s Cup team news and racing schedule confirmation PAGE 12
THE BOOK CLUB
The Nautical Book Club, plus books including the CA Cruising Almanac PAGE 14
6 PAGES DEDICATED TO MARINAS STARTS ON PAGE 53!
ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026 - FOR MORE NEWS GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK
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ALL ABOARD By Jane Hyde
editor@allatsea.co.uk
W
hether you are picking up All at Sea for the first time – perhaps at the Southampton International Boat Show – or are a regular reader, welcome to our bumper September issue. Staying with the boat show, over on page 33 you can read our 10 page guide. Whether you have been before or visiting for the first time, an experienced boater or newcomer to this wonderful world, our guide covers what you can expect at the various show stages, on the marina, at The Shipyard and much more. And if you are considering a boat purchase at the show, check out Ancasta’s great advice for buying new and used craft on page 44. The Southampton show really is a fantastic day out for all the family, and for certain members of the family that might include a Guinness, which has become something of a tradition at the show. Susannah Hart explains more in this month’s Into the Drink… The Southampton International Boat Show might be the largest UK boating event, but there are many more happening between now and the end of the year. On page 21 you will find our round-up of events
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taking you until the end of 2026, and that includes this month’s second America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta in Naples. The British teams are hoping for a better weekend than the last time out in the spring, and you can read all about what to expect on page 22. We also have lots from the America’s Cup in the news, so turn to page 12 for a new team name, a schedule up-date, crew announcements and more. We have a couple of new features for you this month too. First up is Autumn Escapes with MDL Marinas in which we will be exploring some of the UK’s best boating destinations, uncover great places to eat and sharing seasonal cruising inspiration. Our first stop is The Hut at Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight… What about some autumn reading to go with your autumn escapes? On page 14 discover the Nautical Book Club; every month we will bring you a new selection of books from the club, plus All at Sea readers can enjoy 15 per cent off across the Nautical Bookshop. Staying with nautical books, we have an excerpt from Thundery at Times in which Katie Carr learns to kayak to complete her brother’s adventure of sea-kayaking every area
CONTENTS
of the Shipping Forecast. You can also win a copy of Katie’s book! From a recent publication to one that is celebrating its centenary. In Dougal on Tour we look at Nevil Shute’s first published book, Marazan, and we explore the author’s enduring literary legacy. Lastly, a mention for our muchloved pets and their love of life on and by the water. We have a Paws Aboard special on page 24 with more great photos of your pets, along with advice for taking dogs onboard and stories of RNLI animal rescues. As you will see in this month’s Pets Afloat, we now have a prize for the best photo. Thanks to TopDog for supplying this prize. The hardest part is choosing the winning pet as they are all so cute! If you have ever sent a photo to Pets Afloat, Photos of the Month or Me & My Catch – thank you, and feel free to send more. We have many readers who send in lots of photos, which we love as we enjoy seeing what you (and your pets) get up to on the water! If you enjoy the paper, why not subscribe and never miss an issue. Subscriptions just cover postage costs – find out more at www. allatsea.co.uk.
Could your next cruise include a fantastic lunch courtesy of Otium Rewards?
EVENTS GUIDE .............................. 21 All at Sea’s guide to events taking you all the way through to the end of the year.
AMERICA’S CUP PRELIMINARY REGATTA ................ 22 The second Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta for the 38th America’s Cup takes place in Naples this month.
PAWS ABOARD ............................. 24 Top tips for taking your dog on the water, plus RNLI pet rescues.
PETS AFLOAT ............................... 26 A full page of furry cuteness!
WIN WITH ALL AT SEA A Gill Coastal Cruising Jacket worth £230
Mark Hyde mark@allatsea.co.uk
Editorial Assistants Marianne Rickard Henry Roberts
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Contributors
Thundery at Times worth £18.99
THUNDERY AT TIMES .................... 29
Another round-up of your fantastic photos, plus how to send in yours.
We catch up with Stuart Brotherton, Sales Director at Ancasta International Boat Sales.
PHOTOS OF THE MONTH ............... 50
CRUISING ASSOCIATION ................ 51
All at Sea has teamed up with Gill Marine to give away the new OS3 Coastal Cruising Jacket.
The Cruising Association will be bringing a wealth of cruising knowledge, practical advice and inspiration to this month’s Southampton International Boat Show.
ONBOARD WITH BOATSHED ........... 30
PUZZLE PAGE ............................... 52
Could every boat become a floating island - giving people access to boats and water, without having to go anywhere.
SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE ................... 31 With Nick Ogden, Performance Marine Group Chairman.
BOAT SHOW GUIDE ....................... 33 Your 10-page guide to the much-loved Southampton International Boat Show.
NEW OR USED? ............................ 44 A practical guide to buying a yacht with Ancasta's Stuart Brotherton.
BOAT SEA FISHING ZONE ............... 46 Bait of the month, return of the giants and this month’s winning catch photo.
A NEW ERA ................................... 47
Sustainability concerns and shifting lifestyle priorities are transforming how people buy, sell and use yachts.
David Henshall Neil Chapman Susannah Hart Kaloyan Radulov Published by
p29
SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE .................. 48
COMPETITION ............................. 30
Editor
Jane Hyde 07940 240390 editor@allatsea.co.uk
Production / Distribution
p30
DOUGAL ON TOUR ......................... 28
An extract from Thundery at Times; Katie Carr's challenge, left to her by her brother, to sea kayak in every area of the Shipping Forecast.
AUTUMN ESCAPES WITH MDL MARINAS .............................. 19
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SEPTEMBER 2026
As Nevil Shute’s first published book, Marazan, celebrates its centenary, we explore the author’s enduring literary legacy.
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Try your hand at this month’s puzzles.
CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS ....... 53 How Boatfolk marinas have been adapting to the changing desires of boaters.
MARINA FOCUS ........................... 56 This month we are in East Sussex at the popular Brighton Marina.
MARINA FOCUS ........................... 57 Situated on the picturesque non-tidal River Thames at Chertsey, Penton Hook Marina is Britain’s largest inland marina.
MARINA GUIDE ............................ 58 The latest news from around the UK’s marinas, plus your regional marina guide.
INTO THE DRINK ........................... 62 Susannah Hart raises a glass to Guinness – a modern nautical tradition.
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Registered address: Blue Barns Business Park, Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 7FX The views and opinions of the contributors to this publication are not necessarily those of the Publishers. Accordingly, the Publishers disclaim any responsibility for such views and opinions. Printed in Cambridge by Iliffe Print. All at Sea is copyright and can not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publisher. Every care is taken in compiling the contents, but the proprietors assume no responsibility for any effect rising therefrom. Articles submitted for consideration must be the original work of the author and not previously published. Where photographs are included, which are not the property of the contributor, permission to reproduce them must have been obtained from the owner of the copyright. The editor cannot guarantee a personal response to all letters and emails received. All at Sea accepts no liability for products and services offered by third parties. Average recycled content of paper in UK newspapers is 63.2 per cent COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS Closing date: 29/9/26. Postal entries to 13a Thornwood, Colchester, Essex CO4 5LR. Enter online at www.allatsea.co.uk or email editor@allatsea.co.uk. Winners will be notified by email. The winners will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. No cash or alternatives will be offered. If any prize is lost or damaged during the course of delivery, All at Sea will provide reasonable assistance in seeking to resolve the problem, but it will not always be possible to obtain replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event no financial compensation would be payable by All at Sea or their affiliates. We reserve the right to cancel the competition, if circumstances change that are beyond our control. Subject to availability, UK delivery only. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your name and county may be published in the paper if you win. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea, by post or email.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026 - FOR MORE NEWS GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK
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KIT GETS A NEW LIFE
YACHTING SHOWCASE
A new event on the River Hamble this month brings together leading sail and power brands, premium brokerage yachts and sea trial opportunities in a customerfocused environment. A collective of leading yacht sales and brokerage businesses based at Swanwick Marina has announced the Swanwick Yachting Showcase, an appointment-led yachting event taking place from the marina on the River Hamble, 19 – 27 September. Designed specifically for serious buyers, whether entering the market for the first time or looking to upgrade, the showcase offers a more personal and immersive alternative to a larger show format. Visitors will have unhurried access to a carefully curated collection of new and pre-owned yachts, supported by oneto-one appointments with experienced brokers and brand specialists. With each business opening its doors, the showcase will feature the latest models from brands including Beneteau Power and Sail, Lagoon Catamarans,
Prestige Motor Yachts, Dufour Yachts, Rhéa Marine – Motor Yachts, Bavaria Sailing and Motor Yachts, Regal Boats, Bali Catamarans, Greenline Yachts, Excess Catamarans, Sanlorenzo, Bluegame and Jeanneau Sail and Motorboats, alongside an extensive selection of approved pre-owned yachts. A key feature of the event will be the opportunity for prospective owners to participate in sea trials on selected models, providing a valuable chance to experience life onboard in real cruising conditions. Matthew Shave, CEO of Ancasta Group, said: “Purchasing a yacht is a significant decision and one that deserves time and consideration. By offering dedicated appointments and the opportunity to experience yachts properly, including sea trials on selected models, prospective owners can gain a genuine understanding of how each yacht performs and what life onboard could look like. It creates a far more meaningful and informed purchasing experience.” swanwickyachtingshowcase.co.uk
Sailors across the UK are being encouraged to pass on their kit through a new partnership between the RYA and kitround, a circular sports marketplace dedicated to reducing waste in the sports industry and supporting more people to get on the water. Adam Stevens, Co-founder of kitround, said: “This partnership shows what is possible when sustainability and accessibility work together. By giving sailing kit a second life, we are not just cutting waste – we
are lowering the barriers that stop people getting into the sport in the first place.” Collection points will be available at events including the 2026 iQFOiL World Championships, RYA Connected Events and the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show. Kit can also be donated directly to kitround (contact donatesailingkit@ kitround.com). All suitable items will be rehomed through kitround’s circular marketplace, in a dedicated RYA kitshop on the platform, ensuring
they remain in use for longer and support more people to get on the water. Proceeds from donated kit will go directly to the RYA Foundation, helping fund projects that enable more people from all backgrounds to experience the benefits of sailing and watersports. As part of the collaboration, the RYA will continue to expand its collection of preloved sailing kit including wetsuits, drysuits, spray tops, gloves, boots and other technical clothing at key events throughout the calendar.
Boatshed Portsmouth, an established yacht brokerage specialising in the sale of motor boats and sailing yachts, has announced the opening of its new office at Gosport Premier Marina. The new office will serve as a hub for brokerage services including yacht sales, valuations, document handling and new boat sales. Conveniently located at the heart of Portsmouth Harbour’s boating community, the office provides clients with direct access to experienced brokers who understand both the local and international yachting markets. “Our new office represents an exciting milestone for our business and a great base for customers to come in and chat whether it be about how best to present their yacht for sale or to understand a valuation and the current market,” said Samantha Cassell, Senior Yacht Broker at Boatshed Portsmouth (pictured). “As the yachting community continues to grow, we wanted to establish a local presence that allows us a better opportunity to discuss options with our
clients with personalised advice, market expertise, experienced and practical brokerage support. “We are excited to help clients make informed decisions when buying or selling a boat and every aspect of yacht ownership; we have strong relationships with trusted local shipwrights, engineers and marine businesses to help with repairs as well.” The expansion recognises the growing demand for personal, face-to-face advice alongside online services rather than being entirely based online.
Images: Adam Prescott Photography Ltd
NEW GOSPORT OFFICE
THEIR MAJESTIES MEET RNLI LIFEGUARD GARDEN DESIGNER Chloe Erskine, designer of the Swim Between the Flags Royal National Lifeboat Institution garden met His Majesty The King, Patron of the RNLI, and Her Majesty The Queen at The RHS Sandringham Flower Show. Chloe explained to Their Majesties how the garden reflects the lifesaving work of RNLI lifeguards who patrol over 240 beaches across
Image: Ryan Sosna Bowd
the UK and Channel Islands, and are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Since the service began in 2001, they have saved over 2,000 lives. Crucially, during this time, they have carried out more than 48 million preventative actions by sharing water safety advice with beach visitors. The garden was in one of the show’s Community Cubes,
where botanical art can be viewed from all sides. It shows a coastal dune landscape, positioned between two red and yellow lifeguarding flags. The area between the red and yellow flags represents where RNLI lifeguards determine is the safest place to swim on a beach. The fingerpost in the garden points to the rest of the UK, showing the RNLI’s national reach and achievements.
Chloe said: “It was a privilege of the highest measure to meet The King and Queen, and to tell Their Majesties about the inspiration behind Swim Between the Flags. "One of the most enjoyable parts of the creation process has been learning more about the work of the RNLI, in particular the lifeguards, who are celebrating 25 years of lifeguarding in 2026.”
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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SNAPS THIS TIME IN 2009…
WINNING READERS
Congratulations to July’s competition winners. Stephen Carpenter, Southampton, won the Musto event competition and Lynda Dawson was the runner-up. Ben Brown, Essex, and Samantha Woods, Hampshire, won a copy of A Day At Fluffyville Port. This month’s competitions can be found on pages 14 and 30.
GET IN TOUCH
While the RNLI is the largest and best known lifeboat organisation, there are also a lot of independent lifeboat organisations across the UK, many of which are members of the National Independent Lifeboat Association. Caister Lifeboat, for example, has been saving lives at sea since 1791 and is the UK’s oldest independent lifeboat station; it depends entirely on public donations. Hamble lifeboat, meanwhile, was the busiest independent lifeboat in the UK in both 2023 and 2024, responding to more than 230 call-outs. Independent lifeboat charities are often overshadowed, and so if you volunteer at one, or have one in your local area, we would love to hear from you whether it is news, a profile or fundraising up-dates: editor@allatsea.co.uk
Boat repairs and maintenance company BoatCare has relaunched with a new hub operating structure and service model. BoatCare became part of the Premier Marinas portfolio following its acquisition of Boatfolk in 2025. The move sees the company shift into a flexible and scalable service model, with expanded capability at strategic hubs located at Deacons and Portland Marinas. The change enables BoatCare to concentrate on its in-house expertise where the demand is at its highest, while maintaining coverage across the wider marina network through the provision of off-site services and established relationships with trusted partners including Yanmar and MerCruiser (via Barrus) and Coppercoat.
Nick Gill, National BoatCare Manager, said: “Bringing BoatCare into the ownership of Premier Marinas has given us the opportunity to review how its services are delivered and where we can add the most value for our customers. “The new model allows us to invest in our dedicated in-house capabilities at Deacons Marina on the River Hamble and Portland Marina on the Dorset coast, whilst continuing to support customers across the wider network and beyond. This is a more flexible approach that reflects the different needs of our customers." BoatCare services are available to all boat owners across the South Coast, providing access to a network of maintenance and support solutions.
LARGEST YACHT TO VISIT OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA MDL Marinas’ Ocean Village Marina has welcomed the largest superyacht in its history, with the 73m Lunasea arriving in Southampton. Lunasea arrived on the South Coast following a cruise in Scotland and passage from Norway and is making Ocean Village her short-term home ahead of the next stage of her programme, including a winter refit. With a beam of 11.4m, a maximum draught of 3.65m and a crew of 28, Lunasea’s arrival reflects Ocean Village’s growing reputation as a destination for visiting superyachts. The visit also has a strong local connection. Lunasea’s captain, Matthew Ledingham, began his maritime career working on the Hythe Ferry before progressing into the international superyacht industry.
Image: Christopher Ison
In the year that we celebrate 25 years of All at Sea it is fitting that we are looking back at a past issue of the paper which was also celebrating an important milestone – 100 issues (to save your maths that means you are reading the 304th issue of All at Sea)! The cover might have had a different style, but we were still bringing you all the latest boating news mixed with fantastic features including the ‘top boating stories of the past 100 years’ and in the news chart-topping singer songwriter Sophie Ellis Bexter cut the ribbon to open the Southampton Boat Show. Want to know what is happening at the show this year? Simply turn to page 33… You can read many past issues of All at Sea at www.allatsea.co.uk/ all-at-sea-the-paper
NEW MODEL FOR BOATCARE
Lauren Bright, Marina Manager at Ocean Village, said: “Welcoming Lunasea, the largest yacht ever to visit Ocean Village, is a fantastic milestone for the marina and a real demonstration of the scale of yacht we can accommodate. “It makes the visit particularly special to be welcoming a captain with such strong local roots, and we are delighted to welcome Matthew and the crew back to Southampton. We look forward to making Ocean Village their home during their stay.” Situated in the heart of Southampton and close to the Solent, Ocean Village combines dedicated superyacht berthing and marina facilities with a vibrant waterfront destination, giving visiting owners and crew convenient access to hotels, restaurants, bars and leisure facilities. Image: Emirates GBR SailGP Team
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SEE PAGE 58 FOR MORE MARINA NEWS
ANNUAL EXHIBITION
As the Royal Society of Marine Artists’ prepares for its 81st Annual Exhibition at the Federation of British Artists’ Mall Galleries, 16 - 26 September, new figures reveal a succession dilemma for the historic society, as an increasingly senior membership is met with a growing demand for marine art. Read more at www.allatsea.co.uk
Image: Ryan Sosna Bowd
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS
Visitors are invited to make the most of Heritage Open Days Festival with free entry to Buckler’s Hard Museum on 11 - 13 September at the maritime village on the banks of the Beaulieu River. Highlights include the exhibition HMS Agamemnon – Navigating the Legend, housed in the Shipwrights Workshop. This display reveals how nations are working together to protect the wreck of Admiral Nelson’s favourite ship. On Friday 11th at 11:30am and Sunday 13th September at 2:30pm, Mary Montagu-Scott, Chair of the Buckler’s
Hard Shipyard Trust, will give a free talk within the exhibition, sharing progress on the preservation project and her own experience of diving on the wreck. Plus, on Saturday 12th September at 2pm, local historian Marc Heighway will present Beaulieu River in WWII, exploring the river’s vital role during the Second World War. Visitors will also have the rare opportunity to step aboard HMS Medusa, a surviving World War II Harbour Defence Motor Launch, which will be moored on the river for the weekend.
On your free visit to the museum, discover more about the maritime village where ships for Nelson’s fleet at Trafalgar were built. See exhibits, listen in on conversations between villagers of the past and follow residents’ stories in the exhibition of village life. Heritage Open Days Festival brings together and celebrates heritage sites across the country. For free Heritage Days entry to Buckler’s Hard Museum, quote the code HOD26 at the admission desk on arrival. Dogs are welcome on a lead in the museum, so take the whole family along.
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Image: JJ / GGR2026
10 British skipper Henry Wootton aboard his Cape George 36 Privateer during the SITraN Challenge Prologue. Henry finished second after the offshore passage from Les Sables-d’Olonne
150 YEARS OF MARINE TAMAR EXCELLENCE ON THE RIVER TA T MA AR EXPERT E EX PERT BOAT BOA O T STORAGE, OA STO T RAGE, TO E LIFTING & MAINTENANCE SINCE 1870 E,
GOLDEN GLOBE RACE A total of 16 sailors set off from Les Sables-d’Olonne this month to race more than 28,000 nautical miles solo, non-stop and without outside assistance, navigating with sextants and paper charts aboard traditional long-keel yachts in the spirit of the original 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race. Ahead of the race the sailors completed the three-day SITraN Challenge Prologue, which delivered a useful reminder that precision matters at sea. Seven boats did not complete a technically valid rounding of one virtual waypoint. The errors were readily acknowledged on the dock, in several cases with a smile. No competitor lodged a protest, and because the SITraN Challenge was
a fun training and systems-check event, no penalties were applied. French skipper Damien Guillou brought the Rustler 36 Solarem home in first place. British skipper Henry Wootton finished second aboard the Cape George 36 Privateer, with Italian skipper Andrea Lodolo third aboard the Rustler 36 BiBi. Before the fleet’s departure on 6 September, the public area of the Vendée Globe Marina pontoon was open to see the race yachts at close quarters and meet the sailors as they completed their final preparations. American-Irish skipper Colm Walker only reached Les Sablesd’Olonne on 17 August after a
passage from the west coast of the United States. After arriving, Colm assessed a growing list of problems aboard the yacht, including numerous deck leaks and substantially more repair work than could reasonably be completed before the 6 September departure. He therefore withdrew intending to prepare for the 2030 edition. The Parade of Sail begins at 14:00 on 6 September. From 14:30, the McIntyre GGR yachts leave the Vendée Globe Marina one by one at two-minute intervals, heading down the famous Les Sables-d’Olonne channel before setting sail for Cape Horn – and, ultimately, back to Les Sables-d’Olonne.
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The epic migrations of humpback whales and Arctic terns, alongside the small but vital daily movements of limpets, are among the incredible journeys being uncovered as part of The Wildlife Trusts’ National Marine Week, 25 SEPTEMBER - 9 SEPTEMBER, a nationwide celebration of Britain’s coastlines and the wildlife they support. Each year, many species return to or pass
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12
TEAM’S NEW IDENTITY The British Women’s America’s Cup Team has unveiled its new Cobham-Ultra GB2 identity, working alongside Britain’s principal America’s Cup team, GB1. The women’s team previously competed as Athena Pathway, the women’s and youth development programme founded by Sir Ben Ainslie and Hannah Mills OBE in 2022. Since its launch, Athena Pathway has established itself as Britain’s leading development programme for high-performance foiling sailors, creating opportunities for female and youth athletes to train and race alongside some of the sport’s biggest names. As well as a programme for foiling athletes, Athena Pathway also offers development opportunities for onshore roles, including electronics, engineering, data analysis and boat building.
Next year will see the second edition of the Women’s America’s Cup, following the inaugural event in Barcelona in 2024. While making the final of the first Women’s America’s Cup was an incredible achievement, Hannah Mills, Team Principal of Athena Pathway and Cobham-Ultra GB2, has made it clear her desire is to win, as she returns as Team Principal and Helm of Cobham-Ultra GB2. Hannah said: “The Cobham-Ultra GB2 identity creates a stronger platform for British sailing and will inspire young female sailors to believe they can be part of the future of the America’s Cup. Our ambition is to create opportunities for the country’s best young sailors to progress all the way from the Athena Pathway into GB2, GB1 and Emirates GBR in SailGP.” Athena Pathway remains the main talent identification and development
programme for the British America’s Cup and SailGP Teams. As part of the new structure, the British Youth America’s Cup crew will compete under the CobhamUltra GB2 AC40, with sailors selected through the Athena Pathway representing Great Britain in the Youth America’s Cup. Hannah added: “Having one integrated programme gives those athletes a clear route to the very top of our sport. Athena Pathway will remain the engine room of everything we do. It will continue to identify and develop the next generation of talent before preparing them to compete at the highest level.” Both the women’s and youth teams have been training in the AC40 race boat in Italy. The teams will combine for the second Preliminary Regatta of the America’s Cup in Naples from 24 - 27 September. Turn to page 22 for AAS's regatta preview.
ARC TEAM USA UNVEILS SQUAD ARC Team USA has announced the first six sailors selected to its AC75 sailing squad as the team continues its campaign toward the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup in Naples. The initial line-up comprises Lucas Calabrese, Riley Gibbs, Hans Henken, Harry Melges IV, Michael Menninger and
The British America’s Cup Team, GB1, has announced kitefoiler Jemima Lines as the newest addition. Jemima was part of the British Sailing Team’s Kite4Gold programme when the sport was introduced for the Paris 2024 Olympics and caddied for British gold medallist Ellie Aldridge at the Games. The 29-year-old brings a unique blend of elite sporting performance, mechanical engineering expertise (she has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering) and adventure experience to Britain’s America’s Cup campaign. Ian Walker, GB1 CEO, said: “As the programme transitions from AC40 development into commissioning the AC75, the specific nature and importance of the fifth crew member’s role has become much clearer. Jemima stood out because of her unique combination of elite sporting performance, world-class foiling experience, engineering expertise and the personality to thrive within a highperformance team.” As well as a member of the sailing team, she will also be a key part of the design team and develop the tools the GB1 race crew will use on the AC75. The dual role reflects that of GB1 sailor Bleddyn Mon, who also has a degree in mechanical engineering and holds an integral role in the design team. Alongside them in the GB1 race crew are Dylan Fletcher MBE, Ben Cornish and Andrea Tesei, who joined the British team from the Italian entry, Luna Rossa.
Jemima’s signing comes as the 38th America’s Cup approaches a landmark moment in its 175-year history, as it will be the first time the competition has mandated that at least one crew member onboard the AC75 race boat must be female. The requirement follows the success of the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup which took place during the 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona in 2024. Jemima said: “It is an absolute honour to be joining GB1 at such a transformative moment for our sport. The opportunity to be working with such a world-class team both on and off the water is incredible. The role itself is really exciting as it perfectly combines my engineering background and high-performance foil racing experience.” Image: J.Green/GB1
Image: C.Gregory/GB2
GB1’S NEW ADDITION
RACING SCHEDULE CONFIRMED FOR 2027 AMERICA'S CUP EVENTS
The countdown to the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup has taken a major step forward with the official publication of the Conditions Governing the Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series and the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Match. The action gets underway on 22 - 23 May 2027 with a historic opening weekend of the Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series, as all seven AC75 challengers line up together for fleet racing for the first time. Six fleet races across two days will provide fans with an incredible spectacle on the Bay of Naples.
Following the fleet racing, attention turns to traditional one-on-one match racing, beginning on 26 May. Over the following weeks, the Challenger teams will battle through the Round Robins and knockout stages, with only one earning the right to lift the Louis Vuitton Cup (won by INEOS Britannia in 2024) and challenge the holder, Emirates Team New Zealand, for the oldest trophy in international sport. The 38th America’s Cup Match is scheduled to begin on 10 - 11 July 2027, with the first team to secure seven race victories claiming sailing’s ultimate prize. Image: C.Gregory/GB1
Louisa Nordstrom, a group whose collective experience spans the Olympic Games, SailGP and the America’s Cup. ARC Team USA Sailing Director Giles Scott said the selection reflected the team’s ambition to build a group capable of growing and evolving throughout the campaign: “We have deliberately selected
sailors who bring a balance of experience, talent and long-term potential. We are building a squad rather than defining fixed roles from day one. The America’s Cup demands adaptable athletes who can evolve alongside the programme, and we believe this group gives us an incredibly strong foundation to build the team from.”
Image: Ryan Sosna Bowd
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14
NAUTICAL READS
NAUTICAL BOOK CLUB
Pirates and Privateers of the Atlantic and the Caribbean By Hunt Janin, Nicole Sheehan £25 Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Shipwreck diving is like swimming in a frozen moment in history, and the Baltic sea offers some of the best diving in the world. It contains close to 100,000 wrecks – many of them intact and undisturbed. This book is the result of 12 years’ work and about 3,000 dives at depths of up to 110m. With page after page of beautifully and skillfully lit photography, the authors bring us with them down to the depths.
weather and the challenges of ocean voyaging in a remarkably small craft. Maritime history and biographies: The Strange Last Voyage of Donald Crowhurst — Nicholas Tomalin and Ron Hall One of sailing’s most haunting true stories. The book investigates Donald Crowhurst’s ill-fated attempt to sail solo around the world during the 1968 Golden Globe Race — a remarkable story of ambition, isolation, deception and tragedy at sea.
Offering a worldwide sea-and-shore based coverage of the maritime, political and economic reasons for privateering, this book is a study of international privateering in the 18th and 19th centuries. It first examines the ships themselves, which were privately financed and privately owned vessels designed, outfitted and manned to locate enemy ships under the auspices of a national or a local government. It also considers the officers and seamen, the investors and the multi-racial makeup of some of their crews, as well as discussing the European and other women who played an indirect but nevertheless important role in privateering. Ghost Ships of the Baltic Sea £35 | hardback Bloomsbury
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Stories of the sea: The Ocean Book — Esther Gonstalla
A beautifully visual exploration of our oceans and the challenges they face. Through clear and engaging infographics, Esther Gonstalla reveals how the ocean works, how deeply our lives depend upon it and the impact human activity is having on the marine world. All at Sea readers can enjoy 15 per cent off across the Nautical Bookshop with code ALLATSEA15. Monthly Subscription: nauticalbookclub.com/product/ nautical-book-club-monthlysubscription
Don’t miss next month’s selection!
CA CRUISING ALMANAC
The Nautical Book Club is a monthly book subscription created for people who share a passion for the sea. Every month, members discover a carefully selected collection of nautical books, from sailing adventures and maritime history to ocean exploration and life at sea. As a member, you choose and vote for the book you would love to read, and that is the book they send directly to your home. It is a simple way to discover new authors, fascinating stories and different perspectives from across the maritime world — while always having a say in what you read next.
Every issue we will bring you a new selection of books from the Nautical Book Club. This month, the club brings together three remarkable books exploring the sea through adventure, maritime history and our ever-evolving understanding of the ocean. Sailing Adventures: Ocean Crossing Wayfarer — Frank Dye An extraordinary account of small-boat sailing at its most adventurous. Frank Dye takes the humble Wayfarer dinghy far beyond what most would imagine possible, facing open seas, unpredictable
Introducing the 2027 CA Cruising Almanac - produced by the Cruising Association in collaboration with Imray. Trusted as the go-to onboard reference for sail and motor cruisers, the Cruising Almanac covers the coasts and islands of the British Isles, together with NW Europe from Bergen, through the approaches to the Baltic and down to Gibraltar. The 2027 edition has been comprehensively reviewed and updated, with highlights including a reorganised western Scotland section, revised coverage of the Swale, Medway and Menai Strait, updated harbour plans, new entries for Wisbech and Rhu and improved tide tables to make passage planning even easier. The Almanac serves as a comprehensive guide for planning safe passage in and out of harbours, rivers and anchorages, as well as discovering new waters. With detailed information
on almost every harbour and a multitude of anchorages, whether you are planning weekend cruises or extended voyages, the 2027 CA Cruising Almanac remains your essential companion. Members pay £30, non-members £40 (plus P&P), or save on postage and collect your copy from the CA Stand H244 at the Southampton International Boat Show. shop.theca.org.uk Read more about the CA at the boat show on page 51.
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Image: C.Gregory/GB1
16
PRELIMINARY REGATTA
Image: RNLI/Nathan Williams
All of the America’s Cup teams have been upping their intensity in training, determined to put it all on the line in Naples for the second Preliminary Regatta from 24 - 27 September when nine boats will contest for the title, with American Racing Challenger Team USA making their debut. Having the USA on the start line enhances the competition. Led by CEO Ken Read, a multiple world champion and past America’s Cup skipper, alongside Giles Scott, the team’s Head of Sailing and a double Olympic gold medallist, ARC Team USA is expected to perform at a high level. All the teams, however, are eyeing the two Luna Rossa boats as the benchmark after their stellar performance in Sardinia, but in the period since the Preliminary Regatta in Sardinia earlier this year there have been intense training camps. Luna Rossa, the hometown favourites, have a big target on their backs and the likes of Emirates Team New Zealand and GB1 will be looking for a fast start to stamp their authority on the regatta. GB1, the Challenger of Record, and Athena Pathway (now GB2) have been ramping up the pressure, training out of
Cagliari, whilst Emirates Team New Zealand have been hard at work in Auckland before de-camping to Naples for their summer training block with two AC40s – a Principal Team and a Women & Youth Team. TUDOR Team Alinghi have been working in Barcelona with Paul Goodison leading and will field one senior team again for Naples, whilst La Roche-Posay Racing Team have been training from Lorient in the north-west of France and also will send their Principal Team to the second Preliminary Regatta under the command of Quentin Delapierre. Team Australia, a confirmed entry for the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup, will not be on the starting line in September however. The dark horses are the Americans who have looked proficient in training, whilst the big story again is whether the Women & Youth Teams of Emirates Team New Zealand, Luna Rossa and GB2 can, once again, take the fight to their Principal teams and score race wins – or maybe even the regatta? Turn to page 22 to read more about this month’s Preliminary Regatta in Naples.
THE POWER OF OPPORTUNITY
A recent episode of SailGP’s behind-thescenes docuseries, Racing on the Edge, offers an unflinching look at two athletes redefining who gets to belong in the sport of sailing. Through exclusive behind-the-scenes access, the episode traces Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team’s Kai Hockley and his unlikely journey into sailing. Raised in an inner-city North London suburb, Kai attended Greig City Academy, miles from open water in a city where sailing is rarely offered as an after-school activity. Kai’s path began with a teacher and mentor, Mr. Holt, who bought the school’s first sailboat off eBay to teach students on a local reservoir. On a school trip to Cowes, Kai and his teammates stunned Cowes Week by taking home the Youth Trophy.
It was there that fellow Emirates GBR teammate Stuart Bithell first spotted Kai. Not long after, came the call from Emirates GBR CEO and Team Principal Sir Ben Ainslie, offering an onshore internship with the team. Kai has since joined full-time as the team’s Youth Development Sailor. ‘The Power of Opportunity’ captures Kai overcoming the odds stacked against him. “Because of where I grew up and where I am from, a lot of people do not expect me to be doing this,” Kai said. “So I say: do not listen to what other people say, just keep going at it.” Elsewhere, the episode sees U.S. SailGP star Anna Weis, the championship’s first woman competing full time as a grinder / jib trimmer – having spent her career challenging assumptions no woman in
the sport had been asked to challenge before. Stepping into the most physically demanding role on an F50, Anna finds that the mental battle is as significant as the physical one. “When you have all these people saying, ‘this is not going to work, this is not possible, she is not strong enough, what are the Americans doing',” said Anna. “I felt like that period was never going to end. And the longer it goes on, the more you doubt yourself. Your mind plays such a big role in your physical ability, and ever since I learned that, I feel like I am so much more in tune with how I talk to myself.” Episode 4 ‘The Power of Opportunity’ is available to watch now on SailGP’s YouTube channel.
SAVING LIVES AT SEA BRITS MISS OUT ON FINAL
Marking its tenth year broadcasting, Saving Lives at Sea, featuring the lifesaving work of the RNLI, returned to the BBC last month on BBC Two and iPlayer. The 10-episode BBC series showcases the courage of RNLI lifesavers around the UK and Ireland as they respond to emergencies around the coast.
More than 30 different RNLI lifeboat stations feature in the series, as well as some of the charity’s beach lifeguards. The programme features real life rescue footage, interviews with RNLI crews, lifeguards and the people they have rescued and an insight into the lives of the charity’s lifesavers.
Emirates GBR Driver Dylan Fletcher said the team was ‘disappointed’ with its result at the ROCKWOOL Germany Sail Grand Prix, after fine margins saw the team miss out on the event final. After four races, Emirates GBR was just three points away from making the top two of its group, but the team faced a difficult last race in chaotic conditions which left them unable to claim the points they needed. Australia’s BONDS Flying Roos claimed victory in the final against Northstar Canada, Spain’s Los Gallos and New Zealand’s Black Foils. The result means Emirates GBR is now fourth on the SailGP Championship leaderboard, but
Image: Ryan Sosna Bowd
Dylan Fletcher said his team is still focused on getting in the top three and defending their Season Championship title. Dylan said: “I certainly feel like we can get into the Grand Final. Although this weekend’s result was not what we wanted, it feels like quite a big step forward in how we have been sailing the boat, operating as a team and the communication onboard. There is no doubt from here that we need to go out and be getting on the podium, but there are plenty of events left and margins are always tight in SailGP.” Emirates GBR Strategist, Hannah Mills OBE added: “As a team, whilst this weekend was not what we had hoped, we feel like we are in a much
better place now and things are starting to click, so hopefully the better results will start coming.” SailGP returns over 5 - 6 September in Valencia. It will be the championship’s debut
in the Spanish city, and with sun-soaked beaches and roaring crowds lining Valencia’s iconic marina, the atmosphere promises to be nothing short of electric.
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Royal Clarence
You’ve found
our hidden gems
Tucked away on the South Coast, Royal Clarence and Birdham Pool aren't the obvious choice – and that's really the point. Royal Clarence is the sociable one: a lively spot in Portsmouth Harbour, minutes from the Solent. Birdham Pool is the quiet one, sitting pretty at the top of Chichester Harbour, with a boatyard for boat lifts and care and repair jobs. And at both, you'll find a crew who know boats, know you, and are always on hand. Two pretty marinas, relaxed boating, and great locations for less than you'd think.
Now that you've found us, let us help you find your perfect berth at one of our special South Coast marinas. Find out more at aquavista.com. Royal Clarence Waterside & Marina South Coast – Gosport Call 023 9252 3523
Birdham Pool Waterside & Marina South Coast – Chichester Call 01243 512310
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AUTUMN ESCAPES WITH MDL MARINAS NEW SERIES
Pt1: Could MDL be picking up the bill for your next lunch at The Hut? watching the world go by before making the short hop around to Colwell Bay. You can even leave the boat in Yarmouth and grab a complimentary lift to The Hut in their Land Rover 101s. Sometimes, the best boating days are not about ticking off miles. They are about enjoying every part of the journey.
12:30 – LUNCH WITH A VIEW
I
▲ For many Solent boaters The Hut has become something of a tradition
magine casting off from the River Hamble on a crisp autumn morning, cruising across a quieter Solent and dropping anchor for a long lunch at one of the South Coast’s numerous waterfront restaurants. Now imagine the boating you have already done has helped pay for that lunch. That is where Otium Rewards come in. In this new four-part series, we will explore some of the UK’s best boating destinations, uncover great places to eat and share seasonal cruising inspiration. Along the way, we will explore how everyday boating with MDL – from annual berthing and visitor stays to fuel purchases and selected boatyard services – earns Otium Rewards points that can be redeemed on experiences like these.
Our first stop is The Hut at Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight, with lunch courtesy of MDL Marinas and the points we have earned through Otium Rewards.
09:30 – CAST OFF
Leaving Hamble Point Marina, Port Hamble Marina or Mercury Yacht Harbour, the western Solent is little more than an enjoyable morning cruise away. It is a passage many local boaters know well, but one that feels completely different once the summer crowds begin to fade. Rather than heading straight across, take your time. Call into Yarmouth for a wander through its independent shops, grab a coffee at PO41 or simply enjoy
For many Solent boaters, The Hut is not just another restaurant – it has become something of a tradition. Drop anchor in Colwell Bay and you will soon see tenders ferrying diners ashore, all heading for one thing: an afternoon that rarely ends on time. Find a table on the terrace, order a chilled glass of pale, crisp Provence Rosé and settle in while watching boats come and go across the western Solent. The menu celebrates fresh local produce, from locally caught lobster served simply with fries and salad to the delicious catch of the day, fresh ‘Big Fish’ filleted at the table with Isle of Wight tomatoes and all the trimmings. If you are visiting with friends or family, the restaurant’s famous Surf ‘n’ Turf – a generous sharing feast of dry-aged steak, whole lobster, crevettes and bone marrow – has become something of a rite of passage for regular visitors. It is easy to see why lunch here has a habit of becoming an afternoon. Better still, the boating that brought you here could help pay for the experience. Every annual berth, visitor stay, fuel purchase and boatyard
services with MDL earn Otium Rewards points. Those points can be redeemed with Otium partners, including The Hut, treating you to days ashore like this.
WHAT COULD YOUR OTIUM REWARDS BE WORTH?
■ £50 worth of Otium points earned through visitor berthing over the summer could put a round of our favourite Hut cocktail, the Painkiller, on the table. ■ £200 worth of Otium points earned from filling up with fuel could go towards The Hut’s famous Surf ‘n’ Turf to share. ■ £800 worth of Otium points earned through annual berthing could turn into a delicious feast for the whole family, with plenty of St Esprit Provence Rosé. All earned through everyday boating with MDL.
Powered by Otium Rewards
HOMEWARD BOUND
As the afternoon draws to a close, it is time to point the bow back towards the River Hamble. The same Otium Rewards that helped make today’s lunch possible do not stop when you tie up. They can also be redeemed against MDL services, including boatyard work, helping you prepare for your next adventure. Because that is what Otium Rewards are all about – rewarding the boating you are already doing. To learn more about how Otium Rewards can work for you, visit: www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/otium
The Hut’s menu celebrates fresh local produce
Next month, Autumn Escapes with MDL Marinas heads west to Poole Harbour, where we will discover another waterside favourite and another opportunity to turn everyday boating into unforgettable experiences.
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To Rent
Boat Shed & Workshop
2034sqft boat shed and 40ft workshop
Within busy east coast marina and boatyard A unit offers marine services trades the opportunity to set up a highly versatile operation at one of Essex’s busiest boatyards. 40 ton boat hoist and craning available, with a cafe and pub on-site. Available immediately. Located at: Fambridge Yacht Haven, North Fambridge, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 6LU
Visit yachthavens.com/fyh-workshop, call 01621 740370 or email cathy.burrell@fambridgeyachthaven.com
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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Out & About
SEPTEMBER
1 September The Ocean Race Atlantic: New York to Lorient, France www.theoceanrace.com 4 September Cherbourg Race RORC/JOG Cowes - Cherbourg www.rorc.org 4 – 6 September Jersey Regatta Channel Islands www.jerseyregatta.com 4 – 6 September The Lizard Sea Shanty & Pirate Festival The Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall Facebook: The Lizard Sea Shanty & Pirate Festival 4 – 6 September IRC Welsh National Championship Pwllheli, North Wales www.ircwelshchamps.com 5 September 999 Family Fun Day Port Solent, Hampshire portsolent.com/events 5 - 6 September Hamble Classics Co-hosted by HRSC and RAFYC hambleclassics.co.uk 5 - 6 September Melksham Food and River Festival Melksham, Wiltshire melkshamfoodandriverfestival.co.uk 5 - 6 September Sea Ilfracombe Maritime Festival Ilfracombe, Devon seailfracombe.co.uk 5 – 6 September Rally of Boats at Bratch Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal Society Rally Wombourne, Staffordshire swcanalsociety.co.uk 5 – 6 September RCTA Gt Linford Milton Keynes Floating Market Milton Keynes, Bucks www.rcta.org.uk 5 – 6 September Spain Sail GP sailgp.com 5 September - 26 November The Ocean Film Festival World Tour www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk 6 September Portsmouth Boat Jumble Cosham, Portsmouth boat-jumbles.co.uk 6 September Bideford Water Festival Steampunk Edition Bideford Quay, Devon bidefordwaterfestival.co.uk 6 September Golden Globe Race Start Les Sables d’Olonne, France www.goldengloberace.com 7 – 12 September iQFOiL World Championship WPNSA, Portland, Dorset www.rya.org.uk/iqfoil-worlds-2026
8 – 13 September Cannes Yachting Festival www.cannesyachtingfestival.com 11 – 13 September The Black Country Boating Festival Bumblehole Nature Reserve Netherton, Dudley bcbf.com 11 – 13 September Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival Various venues, North Norfolk brancasterstaithe-shantyfest.co.uk 11 – 13 September Heritage Open Days Festival Buckler’s Hard Museum, Hampshire www.bucklershard.co.uk 12 September Brixham Heritage Sailing Rally Torbay, Devon www.brixhamheritageregatta.uk 12 September The Great River Race London greatriverrace.org.uk 12 September Round Hayling Challenge Hayling Island www.hisc.co.uk 12 September Heritage Open Day (& Volunteer Recruitment) National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port, Cheshire canalrivertrust.org.uk 12 September Maldon Town Regatta River Blackwater Essex maldonregatta.org.uk 12 - 13 September RCTA Wolverton Milton Keynes Floating Market Part of Wolverton Park Canal & Rail Festival Wolverton, Milton Keynes, Bucks www.rcta.org.uk 12 - 13 September RCTA Anderton Floating Market Cheshire www.rcta.org.uk 12 - 13 September MOGSAF – Bass Event Sands Of Luce Caravan Park Scotland www.mogsaf.co.uk 12 – 13 September Classic Boat Festival St Katharine Docks London www.skdocks.co.uk 12 – 13 September Bart’s Bash www.bartsbash.com 13 September Heritage Open Day & bookable free boat trips Anderton Boat Lift Lift Lane, Anderton Northwich, Cheshire canalrivertrust.org.uk 13 – 18 September British Sea Angling Festival Cornwall www.britishseaanglingfestival.co.uk
BOATING EVENTS FROM SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER
16 – 17 September Heritage Open Week - Blacksmith Forge Demonstration Dobson Locks Dobson Locks, Apperley Bridge canalrivertrust.org.uk
26 September WorldStar 2026 Plymouth Sound National Marine Park 3 Great Capes to Port - Plymouth Sound rwyc.org/race/worldstar-2026
16 – 26 September Royal Society of Marine Artists Annual Exhibition Mall Galleries, London www.mallgalleries.org.uk
26 - 27 September RCTA Napton Floating Market www.rcta.org.uk
17 – 20 September Ibiza JoySail Balearic Islands ibizajoysail.com 18 – 27 September Great British Beach Clean www.mcsuk.org 18 – 27 September Southampton International Boat Show Mayflower Park Southampton www.southamptonboatshow.com 19 September Oxford Canal Festival Oxfordshire www.oxfordcanalheritage.org/ oxford-canal-festival 19 September Active Marina Event Broadlands Marina Lowestoft tingdeneboating.com 19 - 20 September J Cup Ireland Royal Irish Yacht Club Dún Laoghaire, Dublin j-cup.co.uk 19 - 20 September RCTA Tipton Floating Market Tipton, West Midlands www.rcta.org.uk 19 - 20 September RYA Junior Club Championships Grand Final Northampton Sailing Club Northamptonshire www.rya.org.uk/events/rya-junior-clubchampionships-grand-final
26 September – 4 October Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez France www.lesvoilesdesaint-tropez.fr/en
OCTOBER 1 – 4 October UK Saltwater Fly Fishing Festival St Mawes Cornwall www.saltwaterflyfishinguk.com 1 – 6 October Genoa Boat Show Genoa Italy www.salonenautico.com 1 – 11 October World Sailing Inclusion Championships Portimão Portugal www.sailing.org/world-sailinginclusion-championships 2 – 4 October Sailing Champions League Final Kiel, Germany sailing-championsleague.com 2 – 4 October Essex Used Boat Show Burnham Yacht Harbour Essex www.clarkeandcarter.co.uk 3 October Fraserburgh RNLI Ballgowns and Buoys Fraserburgh Aberdeenshire rnli.org 3 – 4 October Banbury Canal Festival Banbury, Oxfordshire banbury.gov.uk
19 – 20 September Rolex Switzerland Sail Grand Prix Geneva, Switzerland sailgp.com
3 – 5 October Dartmouth Fishing Festival Dartmouth, Devon dartmouthfishingfestival.com
19 – 27 September Swanwick Autumn Showcase Swanwick Marina Southampton www.ancasta.com
3 – 9 October Weymouth Speed Week Portland, Dorset weymouthspeedweek.com
22 September RNLI Looe Boathouse Concert Acapella Group Stargazy RNLI Looe Lifeboat Station East Looe, Cornwall rnli.org 22 – 27 September Grand Pavois La Rochelle, France grand-pavois.com
4 October Suffolk Boat Jumble Trinity Park, Ipswich www.rotaevents.co.uk 11 – 12 October Eric Twiname Youth and Junior Team Championships Oxford Sailing Club www.rya.org.uk/events/rya-eric-twiname -youth-and-junior-team-racing-championships
OVER 75 EVENTS LISTED!
17 October Rolex Middle Sea Race Valletta, Malta www.rolexmiddlesearace.com 17 – 18 October Stourbridge Open Weekend Stourbridge Navigation Trust Canal Street, Stourbridge thebondedwarehousestourbridge.co.uk 23 – 25 October Suffolk Used Boat Show Suffolk Yacht Harbour Levington www.clarkeandcarter.co.uk 30 October – 13 November Youth Olympic Games Dakar, Senegal www.olympics.com/en/olympic-games/ dakar-2026
NOVEMBER 17 – 19 November Metstrade RAI Amsterdam www.metstrade.com 21 November Sea Shanty Festival Cutty Sark www.rmg.co.uk 21 – 22 November Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix sailgp.com 25 – 29 November Paris Nautic Show Paris, France www.parisnauticshow.com 28 - 29 November Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix 2026 Season Grand Final sailgp.com
DECEMBER DECEMBER 5 – 6 December Festive Boat Trips & Santa’s Grotto Experience National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port Cheshire canalrivertrust.org.uk 11 - 19 December Youth Sailing World Championships Vilamoura Portugal worldsailingywc.org 12 December Christmas at Standedge Marsden Huddersfield canalrivertrust.org.uk 12 – 13 December Festive Boat Trips & Santa’s Grotto Experience National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port, Cheshire canalrivertrust.org.uk
23 – 26 September Monaco Yacht Show Monaco www.monacoyachtshow.com
14 – 18 October Barcelona Salon Nautico Barcelona Spain www.salonnautico.com
19 – 24 December Festive Boat Trips & Santa’s Grotto Experience National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port, Cheshire canalrivertrust.org.uk
24 - 27 September America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta Naples, Italy www.americascup.com
16 – 18 October Mevagissey Shanty Festival Mevagissey, Cornwall mevashantyfest.co.uk
Please check with organisers as events are subject to change. All at Sea cannot be held responsible for the quality of events.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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NAPLES AWAITS The second Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta for the 38th America’s Cup will be hosted in Naples, Italy, this month, serving as the first major America’s Cup event in the city ahead of the main competition in 2027.
LAST TIME OUT
Image: Ian Roman / America’s Cup
Uniquely for this America’s Cup, teams are permitted to field two boats in the Preliminary Regattas contested in AC40 yachts. One of the two boats must be crewed by Youth & Women sailors on an equal 50/50 basis. The storylines that emerged from the First Preliminary Regatta in Sardinia in May
were compelling with what looked initially like a handing over of the baton to the new generation of Youth & Women America’s Cup sailors, yet the fairytale did not have the happy ending. What came through was experience, talent and hard-won class by the established superstars of the America’s Cup. Luna Rossa’s principal team won, to set a new benchmark in AC40 sailing, but now the gloves are off. The Youth & Women are gunning for Naples. Big questions surround some teams after Sardinia. The Challenger of Record, GB1, showed incredible pace – with a first, second and third - but suffered from equipment failures that left them down in eighth overall. They are expected to be strong come Naples. Although Britain’s Athena Pathway Women & Youth Team (now named Cobham-Ultra GB2) finished one place above in 7th place, the team achieved a spectacular race victory to build from. Emirates Team New Zealand made the final but stumbled on a mis-timed starting run that they will rue and replay over and over again, while the Emirates Team New Zealand Women & Youth finished in fifth. Tudor Team Alinghi, with just one boat racing, arrived with just a few weeks of preparation but showed speed and finished in sixth ahead of the British teams. La Roche-Posay Racing Team, also with one boat, were always up there and know exactly what is expected of them after their fourth place finish. Sardinia, though, announced the arrival of Marco Gradoni and Margherita Porro for Luna Rossa 1 Women & Youth Team as serious contenders. They blistered through the first two days but faltered on the Sunday, just missing out on the final race. Naples could well be redemption for the young Italian talents, who many local spectators will be cheering on from both land and water.
NEW ARRIVALS
However, for Naples there is a notable contender which will field one AC40. American Racing Challenger Team USA has been quietly building a new team of talented sailors with a mix of youth and experience, and trialling in Pensacola, Florida. Led by
British double gold medallist Giles Scott as Director of Sailing, the American team will be using Naples as a first sight of competition in the AC40 fleet. However, Team Australia, led by world-renowned sailor and past America’s Cup winner Tom Slingsby, will not make the starting line in Naples. If they had, it would have been the first time in history that all four countries that have ever won the America’s Cup – USA, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland – would compete together on the same racetrack for the same prize in the America’s Cup.
Luna Rossa won in Sardinia
Image: Ian Roman
Image: C. Gregory/GB1
F
ollowing the opening event in Cagliari, Sardinia in May, in which hometown favourites Luna Rossa beat Emirates Team New Zealand in the final, the second America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta takes place from 24 – 27 September in the Italian city of Naples. The regatta is expected to attract thousands of spectators to the waterfront, showcasing world-class competition against the backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the city’s historic coastline. Hosted on the spectacular Bay of Naples, the event will bring together the world’s leading teams racing high-performance AC40 foiling yachts and will give sailing fans an exciting preview of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup serving as a high-stakes warm-up ahead of the America’s Cup Match in July 2027 and, as the first major America’s Cup event in Naples ahead of the 2027 competition, it will provide valuable testing conditions. In many ways, September will be the moment when Naples stops being merely the announced host city and becomes the operational centre of the road to the 2027 America’s Cup. Teams will be temporarily hosted at the Navy Logistics Command in Nisida while redevelopment work continues in Bagnoli. Teams will then move into the permanent Bagnoli facilities ahead of the 2027 America’s Cup. Andrea Abodi, Minister for Sport and Youth, said: “Italy doubles down! The second Preliminary Regatta of the Louis Vuitton 38th America’s Cup will take place in the stunning setting of Naples. The Neapolitan city is thus preparing for a first dress rehearsal in its charming stretch of water, a baptism that holds many meanings, embodying the spirit of collaboration among institutions and the rebirth of a place, Bagnoli, which has been left to its own devices for over 30 years.”
THE RACING
The form book suggests that Luna Rossa will be strong in their home regatta, but they know that every team will be bringing their ‘A’ game to Naples. The pressure to perform in front of their home fans is something that CEO Max Sirena described as a “privilege” in Sardinia; and in Naples the levels of expectation are expected to be even higher. In a fleet where anyone can win, especially sailing fully equalised one-design AC40s, it is shaping up to be a tantalising prospect. The racing will be staged in the Bay of Naples, one of sailing’s most visually spectacular venues, with views of Mount Vesuvius, the Naples waterfront, Nisida and Bagnoli. Official Practice Racing begins on Thursday 24 September, followed by the first three fleet races on Friday 25 September. For the weekend of 26 - 27 September, there will be three fleet races on the Saturday, followed by two concluding fleet races on the Sunday ahead of a one-on-one Final race between the top two boats to round out the regatta.
For the America’s Cup GB1 will be based next to the Defenders, ETNZ The regatta will give an indication of: ■ whether defender Emirates Team New Zealand retains its edge ■ how strong the host challenge from Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli looks on home waters ■ the progress of newer challengers ■ how effectively teams are integrating their Women’s and Youth pathways into top-level competition. The beauty of racing in the Bay of Naples is that there will be viewing aplenty for spectators both shoreside and in designated areas on the water for private vessels (everyone who goes on the water in the Bay of Naples must register their vessel through the official America’s Cup website). Fans can also catch it live on the official America’s Cup Facebook and YouTube pages, as well as www.americascup.com.
RACE VILLAGE
Shoreside, Naples waterfront will be alive with the Official Race Village being freeto-all and open from 11am to approximately 8pm every day starting from 24 September and running through the regatta. The main stage will be the epicentre for the dock-out and dock-in shows every race day and will get the fans closest to the sailors. A presentation of the teams
will be made at approximately 6pm on 24 September. Entertainment from local artists will precede the racing and large screens will bring all the race action and commentary to the Race Village. Merchandise stands and food and drink stations will abound, as well as activations from partners and sponsors. Furthermore the Via Francesco Caracciolo will be closed to traffic for spectators to enjoy the promenade and the most perfect viewing spots of the AC40s in action.
NINE BOATS, SIX NATIONS
■ Emirates Team New Zealand (NEW ZEALAND) ■ Emirates Team New Zealand W&Y (NEW ZEALAND) ■ GB1 (GB) ■ Cobham-Ultra GB2 (GB) ■ Luna Rossa 2 (ITALY) ■ Luna Rossa W&Y (ITALY) ■ Tudor Team Alinghi (SWITZERLAND) ■ La Roche-Posay Racing Ream (FRANCE) ■ American Racing Challenger Team USA (USA) Team Australia is not racing in Naples.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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PAWS ABOARD T
Image: Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash
Boating with our dogs brings pure joy. Their wagging tails and sun-soaked naps turn gentle waves and fresh breezes into shared adventures, deepening bonds and brightening every moment spent afloat together.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
here is a special kind of happiness in bringing our dogs along on boating adventures. As the shoreline drifts away, their excitement is contagious - their ears perked, noses twitching at the breeze. They love the open space, the moving water and the endless new smells carried on the wind. Watching them on the deck, tails wagging as they explore, makes every trip feel lighter and more playful. They nap in sunny patches, alert us to passing birds and greet every splash with curiosity. Sharing the quiet rhythm of waves together, turning simple outings into joyful, memory-filled journeys for us all.
BE PREPARED
Preparing your dog for time on your boat starts well before you leave the mooring. Begin by helping your dog feel comfortable around the vessel while it is stationary. Let them explore the deck at their own pace, sniff new surfaces and get used to the rocking motion. If you have one, gradually introduce engine noise by starting the motor briefly while docked. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise builds confidence and reduces anxiety. Create a designated safe space where your dog can rest out of direct sun and away from busy foot traffic. Bring fresh water, a collapsible bowl and familiar items like a favourite toy or blanket to provide comfort. Dogs can overheat quickly on the water, so plan for shade and regular hydration breaks. Boat decks can get slippery, and hot, and so you could add non-slip mats or stick-on tread so they can walk confidently without sliding. Remember, too, it is important to keep the soles of dogs’ feet protected; heat is absorbed through their pads, meaning boat surfaces can get uncomfortably hot for them in the sun. Where appropriate you might consider installing netting along your guardrails to prevent your pet from slipping through or accidentally jumping overboard.
Properly fitted lifejackets or buoyancy aids also help keep your pet safe while on the water. Allow your dog to wear it on land first so it feels familiar rather than restrictive and give them the chance to practice swimming while wearing it. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer this safety kit helps keep their head above water in choppy conditions, and a sturdy top handle allows you to scoop them back onto the boat. A light attached to the top might also help you see your pet if they do take an unplanned swim in the dark.
ON THE WATER
Taking your dog on the water for the first time is an exciting milestone, but a little planning makes all the difference. Start by choosing a calm day with minimal boat traffic and gentle conditions. A quieter location helps reduce overwhelming sights and sounds. Once on the water, practice short sessions onboard before attempting longer trips, gradually increasing the duration to help them adjust to the sounds of the engine, shifting waves and changing scenery. Stay relaxed yourself; dogs take cues from your energy. If you are calm and confident, they are more likely to be the same. Watch your dog’s body language closely. Signs of stress, like pacing or whining, mean it is time to pause and reassure them. Once aboard think about toilet breaks and also, possibly, seasickness; dogs can get seasick just like humans and so you could speak with your vet about antinausea medications or natural remedies before setting out. For those all important toilet breaks, some boaters train their dogs to use a patch of artificial grass (or pee/training pads), while others plan regular shore stops. With patience and encouragement, that first gentle cruise can build trust and confidence. Soon, the sound of the engine and the scent of open water will signal a new adventure you both look forward to sharing.
Top tips for having your dog onboard n Use a canine lifejacket with a sturdy handle for easy lifting in and out of the boat. n Create non-slip footing to prevent sliding on smooth surfaces. n Start slow and calm on quiet water so your dog can adjust to motion and engine noise. n Provide shade and fresh water to prevent overheating and dehydration. n Keep a short lead handy for docking, fuelling or busy marinas.
RNLI SHOP: shop.rnli.org
n Bring a familiar bed or mat so your dog has a secure, comfortable place to settle. n Plan toilet breaks using puppy pads, artificial turf and stops. n Rinse your dog with fresh water after swimming to prevent possible discomfort. n Watch for stress signals like pacing or panting and offer reassurance or a rest. n With a little preparation, your dog can be a calm, happy first mate on every trip.
Image: Oskar Kadaksoo on Unsplash
Dog Print Bandana: £8
Water Bowl: £16
Pet Cooling Mat: £17
PAWS FOR THOUGHT
RNLI Dog Towel: £12
Knot Rope Anchor Dog Toy: £8
RNLI Stripe Dog Lead: £5
If you are leaving Great Britain with your pet, you should ensure that they are correctly prepared in accordance with the rules of the destination country. You must also complete certain steps to enter or return to Great Britain with your pet. Details about how to prepare, including microchipping,
vaccinations, approved routes and travel documentation, can be found on GOV.UK. Further information is also available from the Cruising Association (www.theca.org.uk/pets). With patience, preparation and consistency, your dog will gain confidence on the water, turning boating days into safe, happy adventures you can all enjoy together.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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Image: RNLI/Andy Lockwood
RNLI STORIES In 2025, the RNLI launched their lifeboats 179 times to rescue animals, with pet dogs making up the vast majority of these incidents, although crews also aided three sheep, a horse and a whale. This is an increase from the 163 animal launches recorded in 2024. One of those 2025 launches involved a Devon dog owner who was rescued along with with her dog, Lucca, by Dart RNLI volunteers after the pair were stranded on a riverbank. Felicity Bellamy (pictured below) was walking with threeyear-old Lucca in woods when he left the path and scrambled down to the river shore some 20 feet below. Felicity soon realised something was wrong: “I called out to Lucca and heard him below. I guessed he must have fallen down to the shoreline on the beach and could not get back up. It was quite a steep drop. “I thought if I could get down to his level I would be able to help him back up the bank, so I slid down on the roots and picked him up. I soon realised there was no way I was going to be able to get back up the bank. I walked along the shoreline but it was sheer rock. “I got as far as the boundary with the Naval College and saw the no entry sign and “live explosives” and that is when I realised I needed help.” Felicity, a keen RNLI supporter, fundraiser and donation collector since childhood, knew the correct procedure and called the Coastguard. They alerted the Dart lifeboat station and the Atlantic B Class and then the D Class, helmed by Tatty Pettigrew and crewed by Nigel Viles and Sam Smale, were tasked to help. Felicity said: “The RNLI crew were so efficient and the helm was very good at putting me at my ease. She went the extra mile and it was very reassuring. They were all very kind and not critical. “Lucca had a lovely time waiting for the boat, digging on the beach and getting covered in mud. He thought the whole thing was planned for him. He loved the ride back to Dartmouth where he was given a treat and I had a cup of tea.” Helm Tatty said: “Felicity did the right thing. There is nothing to be gained by taking risks and risking injury. As always, we
SEA LEGS AND SANDY PAWS: LIFE AFLOAT WITH COCO
Flynn and ‘Dave’ are brought to the safety of the lifeboat on the XEP craft
were very happy to attend and help Felicity and Lucca from a situation which could have become more difficult.” Felicity said she was so grateful she would be dropping into the Dartmouth RNLI Visitor Centre to make a donation to the charity organisation.
TRAINING EXERCISE
Dogs are sometimes even involved in RNLI training exercises! Last year one night-time exercise involving Oban lifeboat was made all the more realistic when the volunteers were joined by Flynn, a Cocker Spaniel. Flynn was with lifeboat Coxswain Ally Cerexhe who was playing the role of ‘Dave’, a dog walker who had become disorientated during a walk along the shoreline near Dunstaffnage Castle in almost pitch darkness. The crew of the RNLI’s Shannon class lifeboat, The Campbell-Watson, undertook a search of the shoreline using a powerful searchlight before locating Dave and his dog who were then brought from the foreshore to safety in the lifeboat’s XEP daughter craft. Flynn’s co-owner, crew member and Oban RNLI Water Safety Officer, Lawrie Cerexhe, was onboard the lifeboat during the exercise. She said working safely with animals is an important aspect of the lifeboat crew’s training: “It is not unusual for lifeboats to be tasked to rescue dogs from the water, which we will always do, not least so that dog owners do not risk themselves by entering the water. “We have a set of protocols we follow when we rescue animals that are in distress. Although we are there to help them, dogs can often be very scared and we can never predict how they will react. “It was not an easy exercise. First, we had to find Dave, who was dressed in black, in the darkness. Then two members of the crew had to go ashore in the small XEP daughter craft to bring Dave and his dog back to the lifeboat. Flynn seemed to thoroughly enjoy his eventful evening walk.” The RNLI urges dog walkers to prioritise safety by keeping pets on a lead near cliff edges or the water’s edge. The RNLI’s safety advice is, if your dog goes into the water or gets stuck in mud, do not go in after them. Move to a place of safety and call your dog. If they cannot get out, or if you lose sight of them, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Image: RNLI/Dart
Felicity Bellamy and her dog Lucca with the Dart RNLI rescue team
When Coco first stepped onboard her family’s sailing yacht at just 10-weeks-old, nobody knew quite what sort of boating companion she would become. Now in her fifth sailing season, this friendly Cockapoo - belonging to one of Pantaenius UK’s long-standing customers - has become a confident and experienced crew member. Along the way, she has also taught her owners that boating with a dog is not about doing anything complicated. It is about understanding your dog, planning ahead and adapting as you learn together. One of the first lessons came surprisingly quickly. “Train your puppy to do its business onboard,” laughs Coco’s owner. “We failed!” Instead, regular trips ashore have become an important part of every passage plan. Coco is perfectly happy waiting for her morning and evening walks, but those stops inevitably influence where and when the family cruises. She has even developed an uncanny ability to tell what is coming next. If there is a beach nearby, she is awake and ready to go by 6.30am. If it is a harbour or town pontoon, she is content to stay curled up for another few hours. Her owners have also discovered that thinking ahead is just as important for a dog as it is for the skipper. Because they are based on a swinging mooring, every dinghy transfer is carefully managed. They also know Coco well enough to understand when she might be tempted to jump. Seagulls, dolphins and fish all deserve a second look, but the real temptation comes when a sandy beach is within swimming distance. That is exactly what happened recently when Coco decided she could not wait for the dinghy to reach the shore. She leapt into the water and happily swam the last few metres herself. Fortunately, she had already been introduced to her well-fitting lifejacket during gentle swims from the beach, so there was nothing unfamiliar or alarming about wearing it. Her owners say that simple preparation is one of the best decisions they have made. Like any piece of safety equipment, a dog’s lifejacket is most effective when it feels completely normal long before it is ever needed. Life under sail has brought its own lessons too. Dogs do not understand why a yacht heels over, so when conditions become livelier, Coco’s owners help her move safely around the boat and make sure she cannot slide or find herself in harm’s way. If stronger winds or bigger seas are expected, one crew member naturally takes responsibility for keeping an eye on her throughout the passage. Perhaps the biggest surprise has been just how closely Coco watches the people around her. Like many dogs, she senses when the crew are feeling stressed, so staying calm and reassuring does not just help the humans make better decisions - it helps Coco feel safe too. Even after a five-month winter break, she slips effortlessly back into boating life each season, heading straight for her favourite spot onboard and somehow remembering exactly where the treats are kept. Every dog and every boat will be different, but Coco’s story shows that successful boating with pets comes down to preparation, patience and getting to completely know your dog’s personality. It is a reminder that some of the most valued members of the crew just happen to have four legs.
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Pets Afloat
Send us your pet pics to win
Our furry friends love spending time on the water as much as we do! The pet in the winning photo will win a Shore Thing reversible and adjustable dog harness and matching lead (worth £36) courtesy of TopDog! TopDog is a UK-based pet accessory business founded by dog lovers, for dog lovers. TopDog's harnesses can either be reversed to change the style or adjusted to fit a growing pup, giving dog owners more choice for their money. The brand donates a portion of profits every year to charity. See the full range at: topdogharnesses.co.uk
Bertie the Bernedoodle keeping an eye on Brightlingsea Harbour on a breezy day!
Eric the Italian Spinone loves nothing more than a trip out of Cowes.
THIS O M NTH’S WINNING PHOTO
Murphy, a white Sealyham Terrier, and his best friend Rodney love boats and the water.
Black lab Bonnie is ‘helping’ David Caulk with canopy maintenance…
Border Terriers Daisy and Wilma keeping watch from the flybridge.
Here is Forest, secure and cosy in his travel compartment.
Lucky whippet Walnut is off on his holidays.
The gorgeous Hattie is on watch again.
Tina is keeping an eye out for fish!
Does your pet love the water too? Send us your photos! editor@allatsea.co.uk As well as featuring in the paper your pet might pop up on All at Sea’s social pages or in our newsletter! www.facebook.com/allatseanewspaper | www.allatsea.co.uk/aasnewsletter
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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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
Sailing into Fiction
NEVIL SHUTE
However, there was one author who was happy to draw on his experiences aboard a small yacht when serving us up ‘a damn good read’ and this also gives us an intriguing snapshot into what yachting life was like 100 years ago. His full name was Nevil Shute Norway, but given that he was a mathematician working alongside such greats as Barnes Wallace on the R100 airship, he feared that his other life, as a writer of novels, would detract from his day job so he dropped the Norway to become known in literature circles as simply ‘Nevil Shute’. The Shute family had little connection with small boats and the sea, with Nevil’s introduction to yachting coming when he was looking for ideas of how to spend the long summer holiday away from university. He and a couple of friends answered an advert from a Southampton solicitor who was looking for a summer crew and after they made their way to Hamble, they soon found that there was a lot to learn.
Undaunted, Shute had stuck to the task of writing, with him taking as some inspiration the works of John Buchan (The Thirty-Nine Steps), allowing the pace of a police action/ thriller to help keep moving the plot along. Whilst still working on airship design, Shute would write his third novel, which after two-and-a-half rewrites he was happy to offer to a publisher, who would accept it and take the book, Marazan, into print. It is interesting that Shute attributed his newfound success in part to the purchase of a new typewriter. Although an action novel with a theme of running drugs into the UK in the 1920s, Marazan gives an early insight into many
Image: Shutterstock/Picture 51
PUBLISHED BOOK
of the key themes of Shute’s writing, featuring plans, boats and an almost requisite love interest. At the heart of the story is Marazan Sound, a sheltered area down in the Isles of Scilly where the drug transhipment was meant to be taking place. Anyone who knows the Scillies will recognise immediately that there is not a Marazan Sound there, instead Shute, who had reached that far South West in his early cruising episodes, created an amalgam of a number of locations. What carries the absolute ring of authenticity is the description Shute gives us of picking up his yacht, the Irene, a seven-ton cutter with a sevenhorsepower Kelvin as an auxiliary, from Salcombe before putting out to sea single handed. With only rudimentary navigational aids and a chart, Shute’s hero of the book, Stenning, prepares to spend the first of a number of nights alone at sea, as by now he was somewhere out by the Eddystone Lighthouse.
CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
Following the success of Marazan, Shute returned to yachts and the coast of the South West in later books, though his first love would be Hamble. His first ever book, Stephen Morris, started there on a yacht as did his final complete novel, Trustee from the Toolroom. Nevil Shute would no doubt be surprised that 66 years after his death, his novels are still in print. He would be even more surprised (and delighted) at the events taking place to celebrate the centenary of the publication of that first novel. Please join us in raising a glass to say happy 100-yearsold Marazan, written by Nevil Shute. Let us know if you have read Marazan and whether it is your favourite Nevile Shute book. “Salcombe is one of the prettiest rivers in the West” - Nevil Shute (I think most would agree)
Image: David Henshall
From fouling boats in the river when trying to make it downstream, to having their anchor drag (until it wrapped itself around the ground tackle for the Hamble Spit buoy) to running aground it was all a great adventure and one that Shute would eagerly soak up to feature in his later books.
EARLY NOVELS
His first attempts at completing a novel were not very successful, as a very good (and from the sailor’s perspective informative) narrative had been padded out with some unnecessary reflective ‘musing’. Yet from a yachting point of view, his first book, Stephen Morris, gives us a wonderful insight into what was quite a harsh life aboard a small yacht on a breezy day in the Solent. His experiences chime in nicely with those of Carruthers in Riddle of the Sands, who went aboard expecting blue blazers, Image: Shutterstock/TLC Kernow
I
n the late 1950s, as the grey post war years of austerity faded away to be replaced with the optimism of the ‘sixties’, a national newspaper conducted research into what were now the favourite aspirations of the ‘man in the street’. And right up there at the top was the wish to be a boat owner; clearly the population of the UK still saw itself as a maritime nation. Even today, some 70 years further on, there is still a strong residual nostalgia for anything relating to a life afloat, yet despite this, boating gets short shrift when it comes to being portrayed in literature. Of course there are the pirate novels, then the tales of life on the Spanish Main, whilst Arthur Ransome gave us the wonderful collection of ‘Swallows and Amazons’, but the life that most readers would recognise as time spent in a small boat is sadly lacking from the majority of the pages of fiction writing. It was not until the last few years that Solent based author Pauline Rowson started giving us some excellent yacht-based novels that capture with an authentic feel what yachting and even living aboard can feel like.
Nevil Shute’s first published book was the novel Marazan, released in 1926
white duck trousers and a crew only to find that he was the crew and that the deck above his pillow leaked. It was only after Shute’s untimely death in 1960 that his family found Stephen Morris along with his second book, another nautical novel called Pilotage, and brought them together to create an interesting opening bookend to the incredible literary career that would follow.
Image: Nevil Shute Foundation
Image: Nevil Shute Foundation
Nevil Shute’s love of boats provided inspiration for much of his writing, capturing the adventure and challenges of life afloat. As his first published book, Marazan, celebrates its centenary, we explore the author’s nautical experiences and enduring literary legacy.
The next few days are given over to how Stenning worked to keep himself and the Irene safe and out of the hands of the authorities ashore (Stenning was on the run). His growing problem was a lack of water onboard and although he could replenish his supplies at Falmouth or Helford River, this could put him at risk of capture so instead he sailed on to the Scillies where the novel took a much darker twist in the narrative.
The cover of a first edition of Marazan
“He would be even more surprised (and delighted) at the events that will be taking place to celebrate the centenary of the publication of that first ever novel” Even today there are secluded anchorages to be found in the Isles of Scilly. 100 year ago, a small yacht visiting would have been a noteworthy event
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
THUNDERY AT TIMES
Thundery at Times is the funny, honest and life-affirming story of one woman’s attempt to finish the challenge left to her by her brother: to sea kayak in every area of the Shipping Forecast.
Katie Carr wrote her first book, Moderate Becoming Good Later, from her late brother Toby’s notes, telling his story in his voice; now she tells her own. This is an inspiring story of female resilience in the face of overwhelming grief, as Katie learns to kayak in order to complete her brother’s interrupted adventure of sea-kayaking every area of the Shipping Forecast. Here we share an extract from Thundery at Times.
T
he butterflies in my stomach multiply as Nicky (my aunt) and I walk along the empty seafront in Palamós, around the corner to the marina. It’s a year and four days since Toby died. The sky is translucent like matt-finish porcelain lit from behind, the sea a steely grey and a light wind caresses my face. Three days earlier, I confessed to Nicky, who’d come to visit, that I was thinking of finishing Toby’s challenge to sea kayak in all the areas of the Shipping
Image: Shutterstock/Ritasm
Forecast. It was an idea that had grown as I’d written about his adventures, a feeling that I needed to get outside into nature, combined with a sense that anything was possible. I’d written his book, hadn’t I? It had started as a possibility but the more I considered the logistics involved and the places it would take me, the more committed I became to getting it done. By the time I tentatively mentioned it to Nicky, I’d already decided to do it – despite having
Image: Sarah Hollingworth
2 COPIES TO WIN! Thundery at Times: Loss, Hope and an Unfinished Kayaking Adventure By Katie Carr Hardback | £18.99 Summersdale Publishers Katie had never been in a sea kayak, but when her brother Toby died in the middle of his challenge to paddle in every area of the Shipping Forecast, she decided to honour his memory by completing his adventure. On a journey that takes her from the monotonies of motherhood in urban Barcelona to the far reaches of the Shipping Forecast through the wilds of the British Isles, Katie is forced to face her past and question her present, exploring the loss of her family members as well as her own identity. After two years of inelegant paddling and potentially worse parenting, can she finally cross the finish line?
Thundery at Times is not a story of battling high seas or completing daring tasks, but one of making your own rules and living life to the full. It is about finding joy and hope in nature, motherhood and middle age, in nurturing your own adventures and embracing connection and peace. It is a story of female resilience in the face of adversity; of staring down grief and asking, what is possible from here? For a chance to win this book enter at www.allatsea.co.uk/competitions or by email to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header ‘Thundery at Times’ competition. Q: Katie aimed to complete her brother’s challenge to paddle in every area of which forecast? Closing date: 29/9/26 See competition T&Cs on page 4.
Subscribe to All at Sea’s newsletter: www.allatsea.co.uk/aasnewsletter 29 never paddled. Nicky recognised this straight away and encouraged me. Most other people would have told me I was crazy, but I knew Nicky (like Toby) wouldn’t. Over tapas and beer, she contacted a kayaking friend of hers in Palamós, where Josep, my partner, grew up, asking if we could borrow a couple of his boats. I’d briefly met Marc six years earlier when Nicky was coaching at a kayak symposium nearby and I had a newborn Llorenç. ‘I haven’t seen you around,’ Marc says with his trademark directness as we arrive at his shed. ‘Katie’s got two young boys,’ Nicky replies, ‘nearly six and three.’ ‘That explains it, they do stop you from going out,’ Marc says. ‘That’s why I love being an uncle.’ Toby did too, I think to myself. I wonder how I’ll manage to pull this off. If I’m going to finish Toby’s challenge, I’ll need to leave the children on land a lot, although they are less of a handful now. I already feel guilty for leaving them with their dad this morning. ‘Here, try this,’ Marc says, handing me a kayaking top. I hold it for a moment, wondering if there is a special way to get it on. The gear is familiar to me, yet I’ve never worn it. Marc must see the doubt in my face. ‘Just yank it on, it’s like being born again,’ he jokes. The tight rubber gasket pulls my hair painfully as I force myself into it. I hope the actual paddling will be easier. Underneath I’m wearing my best guess at good kayaking clothes: Lycra leggings, a rash vest, a lightweight running top and some neoprene sailing shoes. ‘You’ll need this too.’ Marc passes me a spraydeck which I recognise as a ‘beginner’s one’ (although he’s kind enough not to point this out): made of nylon rather than neoprene, it will come off with no effort if I capsize and is a way of making new paddlers feel more comfortable when they start. Thanks to Kevin making me capsize in Jersey, I don’t feel worried at all and add a buoyancy aid to finish my kayaker’s look. We move the kayaks off Marc’s trailer and down to the coarse sandy beach. Nicky directs me to sit in mine and check the foot pegs are in the right place. These metal supports provide resistance for my feet, so it won’t be my arms doing all the work. ‘If you’re sitting straight and the balls of your feet are on the foot pegs, your knees should be slightly bent outwards and in contact with the kayak,’ Nicky
tells me before checking it looks okay. I get out, take a paddle and we carry the boats to the water’s edge. Nicky holds the back of the kayak as I stumble into it. I’ve spent the last hour so focused on the practicalities of the kit and how this kayaking lark might work that I haven’t thought about what I’m feeling. As I start to float, facing out to the horizon, carefully placing the paddle in the water, I feel the resistance of the sea for the first time and my eyes fill with tears as I move between the rocks. I’ve imagined this so many times, I’ve read Toby’s every description of what it feels like to be on the water, I’ve interviewed other paddlers, and I’ve put the feeling into words, but it was never mine until now. ‘Okay?’ says Nicky. ‘Yep,’ I say, swallowing my tears. ‘It feels a bit emotional,’ I admit. ‘I’m not surprised,’ she replies. Paddling out, there is slight movement on the water, but I feel calm and confident bobbing on the sea. The years on Hullaballoo and my time dinghy sailing in Barcelona have made me comfortable on the sea. I have no idea what I’m doing with the paddle and wish I had a sail, but it feels right to be on the water. Even before writing the book, the sea had always meant freedom and adventure for me. Nicky shows me some different paddle strokes as we leave one small bay and enter another. I imagine Cala Margarida was once pretty, flanked as it is by ochrecoloured rocks, but the dominance of white apartment buildings stacked behind has spoiled its natural appeal. I can’t remember the last time I was in a small boat looking back at the land; it would have been before Toby was dying, before the pandemic, before having Max, before so many things. A bumpier patch of water snaps me back to the present, and my arms are already feeling tired as I wobble around the next headland. The kayak seems stable, it’s me that is not. I think about my first time driving a motorbike, it felt so heavy, the likelihood of my dropping it so high, and yet after a bit of practice, I hardly felt the weight of it at all. I wonder if paddling will ever be like that for me. n
ABOUT KATIE CARR
Katie Annice Carr is a leadership lecturer, coach and author based in Barcelona. Between training executives to embrace storytelling and self-reflection and wrangling her two young boys, she enjoys art, nature and challenge.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
30 To distribute All at Sea for free: www.allatsea.co.uk/getthepaper
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.
WIN A GILL COASTAL CRUISING SAILING JACKET All at Sea has teamed up with Gill Marine to give away the new OS3 Coastal Cruising Jacket, which offers the ideal balance of comfort, performance and protection. WORTH
Image: Joshua McCormack
£230!
Could every boat become a floating island? Last month I asked if boats are evolving beyond their intended purpose. Instead of boating existing for movement, I pondered whether the quieter bits, such as morning coffee on deck and a swim before breakfast, are higher priorities. This formed the basis of my Floating Island trial in the British Virgin Islands – giving people access to boats and water, without having to go anywhere. This project could be a game-changer and industry disruptor, which is why I am delving into more detail this month. A NEW LENS Like marinas almost everywhere, the bay near me was full of perfectly good boats that were not going anywhere. Their owners were swimming, reading, sharing meals in the cockpit or watching the world drift by. The boats were not sailing, they were simply wonderful places to spend time. This is when I began to think we need to look at recreational boating through a different lens. The marine industry naturally encourages people to buy boats, learn to sail and head for distant horizons. Yet perhaps the first step is not ownership at all, maybe it just needs one or two unforgettable nights afloat. THE EXPERIENCE No pressure to leave the berth, no qualifications or a skipper. Just other priorities; a coffee on deck, a stroll into the marina for lunch and the gentle sound of halyards in the evening breeze. For many people, that might be enough. Some will enjoy the experience and leave with happy memories, others may discover they want sailing lessons, perhaps shared ownership or a boat of their own. Whatever their preference, their journey into boating begins with an experience. COMMUNITY There are already a handful of boats available through Airbnb, Booking.com and similar websites. They prove people enjoy staying on boats, but boats are not floating hotel rooms, they are part of a living community. Every marina has its own character, unwritten rules and network of people who quietly help make it work. Marina managers, berth holders, local cafés, yacht clubs and neighbouring boat owners all have a stake in what happens on the pontoons. That is very different from renting a city apartment. So any platform hoping to succeed has to fit naturally into that ecosystem, and not simply treat boats as unusual accommodation.
▲ Nearly every boat has the potential to become a floating island
For more than 50 years, Gill has developed clothing designed to perform across a wide range of marine disciplines - from offshore racing and coastal cruising to dinghy sailing and powerboating.
No more dreaming of life afloat, it can start with spending a single night onboard Previous ideas, such as Beds on Board, show there is a genuine interest in staying aboard boats. Maybe the next step is not simply a better booking website, but a platform designed specifically for boating, one that works for owners, guests, marinas and the wider waterfront community. A NEW WAY OF SHARING And this is not purely about earning money - the sharing economy is evolving. Some platforms now focus less on commercial transactions and more on giving people access. Home exchanges, shared workspaces and community-based networks all recognise value does not have to be measured in pounds. Boating could follow a similar path. Some owners may wish to rent out their boat occasionally to help cover marina fees. Others might prefer a reciprocal system, offering a weekend aboard their boat in return for the opportunity to spend time on someone else’s in another harbour. One owner shares a yacht in Portsmouth, another offers a houseboat in Amsterdam, someone else has a sailing boat in the Caribbean. Instead of creating another holiday booking website, isn’t it better to create a community that allows more people to experience life on the water? POTENTIAL Nearly every boat has the potential to become a floating island, whether swinging gently on a mooring in the Caribbean or tied safely alongside in a busy marina. If we can help more people discover that feeling, while respecting the owners, marinas and communities that make boating so special, everyone stands to benefit. The guest enjoys a memorable weekend, and the owner gets more value from their boat, whether that is income, shared access or simply the pleasure of introducing someone new to boating. Local businesses welcome new visitors and the marine industry gains something it has been seeking for years. Not just more customers, but people who genuinely understand why life on the water is worth experiencing. The future of boating does not begin with buying a boat, it starts with spending a single night on one. ■
Bridging the gap between relaxed coastal sailing and the demands of offshore passages, the stylish OS3 Coastal Cruising Jacket* delivers confidence in changing conditions - without the bulk of offshore kit. Crafted with Gill’s exclusive XPLORE® 2-layer waterproof and breathable fabric and finished with their eco-conscious SHIELD® PFASfree water repellent finish, the OS3 Coastal Cruising Jacket keeps wind and water out while letting your body breathe. Fully taped seams and a double storm guard over the anti-corrosion YKK zipper ensure watertight performance where it matters most.
Designed for sailors who demand more from their coastal gear, it features a packable hi-vis hood, thermal fleece-lined collar and adjustable double cuffs with PU inner seals for all-day comfort in shifting conditions. Practical touches like chest hand-warmer pockets, deep cargo storage and an adjustable hem make this jacket a trusted choice for coastal cruising with a technical edge. Gill’s reputation has been built on technical credibility and engineering expertise, priding itself on its rigorous product testing process. Materials and construction are pushed beyond industry standards in controlled lab environments and validated through real-world use on the water, so sailors and boaters can simply head out on the water and trust their gear. *Available in Men’s or Women’s Cut
HOW TO ENTER
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 Gill Jacket Competition. You can also enter via the All at Sea newsletter (sign up at www.allatsea.co.uk/aasnewsletter).
Q: Gill Marine recently celebrated which anniversary milestone since they first started making technical sailing clothing? A: NAME: ADDRESS:
EMAIL:
Terms and conditions: Closing date is 29/9/26. Post entries to 13a Thornwood, Colchester, Essex CO4 5LR, enter online at www.allatsea.co.uk or email editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header ‘Gill Jacket competition’. Winners will be notified by email. The winners will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. No cash or alternatives will be offered. If any prize is lost or damaged during the course of delivery, All at Sea will provide reasonable assistance in seeking to resolve the problem, but it will not always be possible to obtain replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event no financial compensation would be payable by All at Sea or their affiliates. We reserve the right to cancel the competition, if circumstances change that are beyond our control. Subject to availability, UK delivery only. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your name and county may be published in the paper if you win. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea and Douglas Gill International Ltd by post or email.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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Shootin’ the Breeze...
…Nick Ogden, Performance Marine Group Chairman. As a manufacturer we are fully aware of the cost of manufacturing, sales, distribution etc, and so we needed to develop a structure that supported those processes. We also own an AI business that has developed a technology that delivers asset intelligence to create risk models for lending. From that building Magic became logical, as when we modelled out the process, we found that we could deliver a proposition similar to personal car leasing but for dinghies, that we could also finance. Magic allows sailors and clubs to access a new dinghy with a 30 per cent initial payment followed by 24 interest-free monthly payments. At the end of the term they can buy the boat, upgrade it or return it. The boats are digitally tracked through NFC tagging and asset intelligence systems to support lifecycle management and transparent value outcomes. The key point is that we are not discounting boats we are restructuring access to them.
AAS: Your background is in banking and financial technology, so how did you end up in the marine world? NO: I have always been interested in industries where legacy structures are holding back growth and accessibility. My background in fintech - from creating the world’s first online shop, to launching Worldpay and later founding ClearBank - was really about modernising systems that people had accepted for decades as “just the way things work”. The marine industry, and particularly dinghy sailing, had some of the same characteristics. It is an incredible sport with a strong heritage, passionate communities and fantastic products, but many of the commercial and ownership models had not evolved alongside consumer expectations. When I became involved with Performance Marine Group, I saw a real opportunity to combine advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and financial innovation to help make the sport more accessible and sustainable for the next generation. AAS: Can you tell our readers about Performance Marine Group? NO: Performance Marine Group is focused on highperformance sailcraft and powercraft manufacturing, with a strategy centred around innovation, quality and long-term sustainability within the marine sector. The group includes Performance Sailcraft, best known as one of the first builders of the Bruce Kirby designed Olympic-class Laser. Now marketed as the ILCA we own the Ocean Play range, which includes some of the best-known training and club boats in sailing. Over the last few years, we have invested heavily in manufacturing capability, technology and international expansion and 70 per cent of our manufacturing worldwide is exported. A major milestone was the opening of our new Australian production facility in Morisset, which is helping us meet growing global demand for Olympicclass boats while also supporting the development of new high-performance ranges. What is important to us is that PMG is not just about building boats - it is about strengthening the wider ecosystem around participation, clubs, dealers and long-term access to the sport. AAS: Earlier this year Performance Sailcraft, best known as the builder of the Olympic-class Laser, launched Magic, a new fintech platform designed to reduce financial barriers in dinghy sailing. Can you explain how Magic works? NO: The industry was ready for an improvement in customer service was one issue. Largely the whole customer service proposition has remained the same for years. That legacy tends to restrict consumer choice and slows the uptake of sailing, according to many of the sailors we have talked to in Europe and Australia. Fintech allows you to deliver a wide range of choices and options, and so we looked to find a way to improve access to the water and one recurrent obstacle was the cost of dinghy ownership. So, we looked at how we could change that to make access to dinghies simpler and easier.
AAS: Will Magic extend beyond Performance Sailcraft dinghies? NO: Magic is a standalone business and through our partnership with Sporta plans to partner with other manufacturers in new sports sectors have already started. Although it launches initially with Performance Sailcraft, the platform itself is designed to support broader sports applications. The underlying logic works wherever you have durable assets with predictable residual values and strong owner communities. We see significant opportunity to work with other manufacturers over time, and some initial discussions have already started. Ultimately the objective is bigger than any one brand - it is about helping modernise access to all sports more broadly. AAS: What are the current trends in dinghy buying? NO: We are seeing a growing divide between aspirational demand and outright ownership affordability. People still want to sail, clubs still want modern fleets and parents still want pathways into the sport for younger sailors, but the upfront cost of ownership has become a much bigger consideration globally. At the same time, consumers increasingly expect flexibility. In almost every other area of life - from cars to software to entertainment - people are used to subscription-style access and predictable monthly costs. Marine has lagged behind that trend. We are also seeing strong demand return for durable club and training fleets, particularly through the Ocean Play range, where sailing schools and clubs are prioritising reliability, availability and lower lifetime operating costs, hence our development of Magic. AAS: What else can the industry do to help break down the barriers to boating? NO: Accessibility is the key issue. That includes affordability, but it also means simplifying the customer journey and making entry into the sport less intimidating. The industry has traditionally expected people to adapt
to sailing, whereas I think we now need sailing to adapt more to modern lifestyles and expectations. Flexible ownership, stronger club support, modern digital experiences and clearer progression pathways will all help. We also need to recognise that younger consumers increasingly value access over ownership. If we want participation to grow, the sport needs to meet people where they are financially and culturally. AAS: What else can we expect from Performance Marine Group during the remainder of the year? NO: 2026 is very much about scaling internationally and continuing to invest in manufacturing capability and product development. We are expanding production across multiple facilities, continuing the rollout of Magic internationally and developing new products that combine advanced materials, digital technologies and highperformance design. There will also be further investment in dealer and club support infrastructure, because we see those relationships as fundamental to long-term growth. The focus is not just on building more boats, but on creating a stronger and more sustainable ecosystem around them. AAS: Where do you see technology making the biggest impact on leisure boating in the next few years? NO: I think the biggest impact will come from the convergence of digital technologies, AI and asset intelligence rather than any single breakthrough product. We are moving towards a world where boats become increasingly connected assets - with better diagnostics, predictive maintenance, lifecycle management and integrated financing. That creates better ownership experiences, better safety outcomes and stronger residual values. Advanced manufacturing will also continue to evolve rapidly, particularly around composites, lightweight structures and more sustainable production methods. The marine sector has historically been slower to digitise than industries like automotive or banking, but I think that changes significantly over the next decade. We can turn a dinghy into a payment device already, imagine saying to the bar staff just go and tap my dinghy to pay. AAS: Will Performance Marine Group be at the Southampton International Boat Show this year? NO: We attended Southampton International Boat Show last year, opening the show with the iconic Thunderchild II, and to launch our industry-first lightweight and high-speed carbon-fibre performance dinghy, the Rascal. The show provided an excellent platform to launch the Rascal, receiving incredible interest from show visitors and industry stakeholders. With 2026 being very busy for us on the production
side, we do not have time to be there this year, but hope to drop in as visitors as the show remains one of the most important events in the marine calendar and an excellent opportunity to engage directly with sailors, clubs, dealers and the wider industry.
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS What technology do you wish you had invented? The internet browser - because it fundamentally changed access to information and commerce globally. Favourite country to visit on holiday? Australia. Great sailing culture, fantastic lifestyle and an incredibly positive outdoor mentality. What is your favourite sport to play/watch? Watersports and sailing, for sure, but the number one is endurance powerboat. Moment in history you would love to have been at? 1972 London to Monaco Powerboat race. What is your favourite film? Seven Samurai. If you could have dinner with one person, who would it be? The late Bruce Kirby, an extraordinary designer who has brough sailing to a huge number of people. As an innovator, I appreciate the challenges he faced during the evolution of the Laser.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
32 Want to advertise with us? email: advertising@allatsea.co.uk
VISIT US AT THIS YEAR’S SHOW: STANDS P16/P36
SEPTEMBER 18TH-27TH 2026
POP UP CHANDLERY STAND P16 - SUPPORTED BY SHOW SPECIAL
PETER LEONARD MARINE BOATS STAND P36 Boat Show only special deals from all suppliers.
POWERED BY
Peter Leonard will also have two boats in the water with Suzuki, see them on stands M229, M231
GET DISCOUNTED SHOW TICKETS USE CODE: PETERLEONARDM www.southamptonboatshow.com
Peter Leonard Marine are a UK based family run, friendly business formed in 1970. We have grown into one of the busiest boatyards in the area and have a well stocked chandlery.
Call us: 01273 515987 www.peterleonardmarine.co.uk
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
SOUTHAMPTON
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INTERNATIONAL
BOAT SHOW The Southampton International Boat Show returns from 18 – 27 September for 10 fantastic days of boating, watersports and entertainment.
T
he countdown is on for one of the UK’s biggest celebrations of life on the water, as this year’s show promises 10 days packed with inspiration, entertainment and unforgettable experiences for seasoned sailors, watersports enthusiasts and complete newcomers alike. From the moment the gates open, visitors can expect a programme filled with action both on and off the water. Live demonstrations, expert talks and hands-on activities run throughout the event, offering something for every level of experience. Whether your passion is professional sailing, high-speed powerboat racing, traditional wooden boatbuilding or Britain’s rich maritime heritage, there is plenty to discover. The excitement extends well beyond the boats on show. A dedicated watersports lake provides the perfect opportunity to get involved, with paddleboarding and kayaking sessions led by the experienced team at Rockley. As the watersports specialist celebrates its 50th anniversary, visitors can learn from expert instructors
while enjoying one of the most popular attractions at the show. Returning too is the Andark Dive Tank, where visitors can experience the thrill of scuba diving in a safe, supervised environment. Using state-of-the-art equipment and supported by experienced instructors, complete beginners can take their first breaths underwater. For those keen to get afloat, the everpopular Try-a-Boat experience once again offers visitors the chance to head out onto the water during the show. Included within the price of admission, the initiative gives guests the opportunity to enjoy time afloat with respected organisations including Clipper, Wetwheels and Team Endeavour Racing, providing an accessible introduction to boating for visitors of all ages. Away from the water, the show’s packed speaker programme brings together some of the most respected names in boating and the wider marine world. Combining inspiring personal stories with practical advice and expert insight, the talks offer visitors a unique opportunity to hear directly from those who have pushed the boundaries of life at sea.
Among the speakers are Tom Cunliffe, Monty Halls, Pip Hare and Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, whose remarkable career has inspired generations of sailors. From becoming the first person to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation to establishing the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, his session will explore the adventures that have defined an extraordinary sailing career. For prospective boat owners, the Westerly Owners Association will demonstrate that getting afloat does not have to cost a fortune. Their practical sessions will focus on affordable boat ownership, maintenance and cruising. Following its hugely successful debut last year, the expanded Wooden Boat Stage returns with an even bigger programme celebrating the craftsmanship, heritage and community behind traditional boatbuilding. The stage combines live demonstrations, expert presentations and inspiring stories that showcase both historic skills and the future of the craft. The impressive line-up includes Belinda Joslin, founder of Women in Boat Building, Paul Dyer, Boat Building Academy’s Operations Manager, and Will Reed, Director of the Boat Building Academy
in Lyme Regis. Adding further historical depth, Mary Montagu-Scott, Director of Buckler’s Hard Maritime Museum, is passionate about promoting and sharing maritime heritage, sailing and historic ships. New for 2026, the Wooden Boat Stage Afloat takes the experience directly onto the marina itself. Visitors will have the chance to admire an extraordinary collection of classic and historic vessels, including the Guide of Dunkirk and the iconic offshore racing yacht Apache 555. Together, they provide a rare opportunity to experience maritime history up close while meeting many of the owners and experts responsible for preserving these remarkable boats. There is the Sail Hub too; head to The Ghostship and Sailing Solice to meet Mothership Adrift, Ship Happens, Saving Blue Steel, Jazz Turner and Sailing Project Parrot. Show visitors can enjoy talks, live podcasts, Q&As and will also have the opportunity to go aboard both boats in the marina. At the heart of the event sits Europe’s largest purpose-built marina, where more than 250 boats will be on display. From sleek sailing yachts and luxurious motor cruisers to high-performance RIBs, cutting-edge powerboats and beautifully restored classics, the marina offers an unrivalled showcase of every corner of the boating world. But the show is about far more than boats. Leading marine manufacturers and industry brands will also present the latest innovations in technology, equipment, clothing and accessories, allowing visitors to compare products, seek expert advice and discover what’s new. Throughout the ten-day event, live music, family entertainment and interactive experiences help create a vibrant festival atmosphere. Late-night entertainment on both Fridays and Saturdays adds another dimension, ensuring the excitement continues long after the sun sets over the marina. Whether you are looking to try a new activity, hear incredible stories from life at sea, discover the latest innovations in boating or simply enjoy a fantastic day by the water, the Southampton International Boat Show promises 10 unforgettable days celebrating everything that makes life on and around the water so special.
INFORMATION
■ 18 – 27 September ■ Mayflower Park Southampton, Hampshire Show postcode: SO14 2AS ■ The show opens daily at 10am and closes at 6pm, except Fridays and Saturdays when The Shipyard remains open until 9pm, and the last Sunday when the show closes at 4.30pm ■ All dogs (including guide dogs) are permitted into the show. However, access onto the show marina, New Wave Hall and catering areas will be significantly restricted at busy times and there are limited facilities available for dogs at the show ■ southamptonboatshow.com
TICKET OFFER
Book your ticket for £23 using the code ALLSIBS2026! Children under 15 can attend for free but must have a valid ticket. All visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Make your visit to the Southampton International Boat Show truly unforgettable with the Premium experience. Get exclusive access to the private Waterside Lounge, treat yourself to a delicious lunch and make the most of extra perks.
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
34 Want to advertise with us? email: advertising@allatsea.co.uk
THE GREATEST EXAMPLE OF THE GREATEST EXAMPLE OF NEW BOAT QUALITY, NEW BOAT QUALITY, AT PRE-OWNED PRICES AT PRE-OWNED PRICES
DESIGN & REFIT SPECIALIST DESIGN & REFIT SPECIALIST Don’t just take our word for it... see for yourself at Stand M153 Don’t just take our word for it...
see for yourself at Stand M153 Southampton International Boat Show Southampton International 18th - 27th September
Boat Show
18thsetagyachts.com - 27th September
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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WHAT’S HAPPENING? Enjoy a packed programme from start to finish, with on-the-water activities, live demonstrations and expert talks covering everything from professional sailing and powerboat racing to traditional wooden boat building and maritime heritage. DON’T MISS!
The Battle of Brita Memorial Flig in ht will be flying over the show on 18-20 September
SHOW MARINA & ATTRACTION BOATS
The purpose-built show marina is home to more than 250 boats, creating an impressive waterfront showcase. Wander through dedicated zones featuring everything from sailing yachts and powerboats to paddleboards and personal watercraft, discover unique attraction vessels and step aboard incredible boats. Step aboard this year’s attraction boats and discover the stories behind every hull. From iconic 1970s racers and beautifully restored classics to pioneering new designs, each offers a unique glimpse into the people, craftsmanship and adventures that have shaped the boating world. Helen Mary R: This is the 2026 ASTO/ MCA Sail Training Vessel of the Year and is also celebrating her 40th anniversary. Throughout her lifetime, she has sailed over 100,000 miles and introduced more than 6,000 young people to the sea. Step aboard to discover how Sail Training transforms lives, meet the crew and learn how the Morvargh Sailing Project is using Sail Training to inspire and change lives through offshore sailing adventures. Tectona: Brought by Sailing Tectona, a charity supporting young people and people recovering from mental health challenges and addiction, visitors can step aboard Tectona – a stunning 20m
gaff ketch built entirely of teak on a beach in India in 1928. Boleh: This is a 40ft, 18-tonne sailing vessel built by Malay shipwrights in Singapore in 1949. Today, the Boleh Trust uses Boleh to help people facing challenges build confidence, connection and wellbeing through time on the water. Revolution: This 50ft Victory Class 1 offshore racing catamaran weighs in at 5,200kg and is powered by twin Sterling ProCharged V8 engines producing 1,085hp each. Formerly raced as Negotiator and King of Shaves by Chris Parsonage in the UIM Class 1 series, the boat has an impressive history in international Class 1 competition.
boat, Barracuda, is a Westerly Storm 33 designed by Ed Dubois, combining racewinning performance with cruising comfort and is still sailed extensively across the UK and Europe. Sea Scamp: Built in 1936 for the German Luftwaffe, Sea Scamp is a classic Bermudan sloop with a remarkable history. After arriving in the UK in 1945, she was raced by the Royal Marines and later served as a training vessel for the Royal Navy and Sea Scouts. Today, she is cared for by the 110-member Sea Scamp Syndicate and is National Historic Ships UK’s 2026 Flagship of the Year. Straight & Narrow 2: Step aboard this 58ft cruiser stern narrowboat, built by Caldon Boats and beautifully fitted by Straight & Narrowboats. Alvechurch Plover: ABC Boat Hire is unveiling its brand-new Plover Class narrowboat. Built at Alvechurch Marina in Worcestershire, the 58ft boat sleeps up to six and showcases the quality craftsmanship and practical design behind the UK’s largest hire fleet.
Figaro Beneteau 3: Owned by British solo offshore sailor Joss Creswell, the Figaro 3 is one of the world’s most technically demanding solo offshore racing yachts. This one-design semi-foiling monohull uses innovative foils to reduce drag, improve stability and help sailors push harder for longer, rewarding skill and precision at every turn. Saluki: The Hunter Association is bringing Saluki, a Hunter Pilot 27, to the show. Built in 1997, the Pilot 27 is a wheelhouse version of the Hunter Ranger 265. Around 100 were built, and Saluki is now based in the Solent. Exploring Duo: One couple, 3,000 miles, zero support, one mission. Rowing 3,000 miles from La Gomera to Antigua on a 7.5m boat, entirely self-sufficient and unsupported, all to raise money for three charities: The British Heart Foundation, Calder Valley Search and Rescue and Seaview Sailing Trust.
Batboat.UK: This iconic 28ft Ocke Mannerfelt Bat Boat was first seen debuting at the Miami Boat Show in 1994 and was introduced to the UK in the late 90s as ‘Wing & a Prayer’. The B-28 Bat Boat hull design was incredibly dominant globally, securing three consecutive UIM World Offshore Racing Championships right after its introduction. Now owned by Drew Langdon and renamed ‘BatBoat. uk’ the boat has kept its original eyecatching paintwork. Barracuda: Representing the world’s largest yacht owners’ association, with around 3,000 members, the not-forprofit Westerly Owners’ Association is run by owners for owners. Their attraction
TRY-A-BOAT LINE-UP
Try-a-Boat is a visitor favourite for a reason, offering the chance to get out on the water and try a range of boating experiences with, for example, Wetwheels and Team Endeavour Racing. Other opportunities include: Clipper RX: Be among the first to step aboard the brand-new Clipper RX, the next generation of ocean racing yacht built for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Experience Clipper RX for yourself with Try-a-Boat at 1pm on both Saturdays and Sundays.
UKSA J/80: Fast, responsive and great fun to sail, the UKSA J/80 is one of the world’s most successful one-design keelboats. Experience its thrilling performance for yourself, running from 18 – 21 and 25 – 27 September. Other boats in the Try-a-Boat line-up: Varuna Axopar 37, Ariadne Sun Odyssey 319, Viper Highfield 700 Sport RIB, Seaduction Hanse 360, Sea Symphony Hanse 415 and Sea Dancer Jeanneau NC11. All activities are included with your ticket. Availability is limited, so visitors are encouraged to book early.
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ON THE WATER ACTIVITIES
GUESTS & TALKS
This year is extra special as two long-standing show partners celebrate major milestones. Rockley and Andark are both marking their 50th anniversaries, bringing decades of expertise and helping even more visitors get on and in the water. All equipment and expert support will be provided, ensuring everyone can take part and enjoy the experience. Simply book your session when you arrive at the show - included in your ticket price. Rockley: Paddleboarding and kayaking sessions are available throughout the show — with everything provided and expert support on hand. The perfect chance to try something new, enjoy a different view of the event and build confidence in watersports. Andark Dive Tank: Experience diving with stateof-the-art gear, guided every step of the way by expert instructors. Once you are finished, freshen up with the convenient on-site changing facilities.
WOODEN BOAT STAGE
This year’s show will feature a significantly expanded Wooden Boat Stage, creating an even bigger platform to celebrate, showcase and support the future of wooden boatbuilding in the UK. The inaugural Wooden Boat Stage in 2025 was created by the Boat Building Academy in Lyme Regis (BBA), Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association (WBTA) and Women In Boat Building (WIBB) to shine a spotlight on the skills of wooden boatbuilding in the UK through daily demonstrations, practical sessions and expert-led talks and panels. This year’s line-up brings together master boatbuilders, craftspeople, restorers, historians and maritime experts for 10 days of talks, demonstrations and stories from across the world of wooden boats. Discover the people behind remarkable restorations, traditional techniques, historic vessels and the future of the industry.
New for 2026, the Wooden Boat Stage Afloat will expand the experience onto the water, showcasing a special collection of wooden boats with unique stories and outstanding craftsmanship. Look out for remarkable vessels including Hannah Stowe’s 1907 gaff cutter Larry, the historic Guide of Dunkirk (as featured in recent issues of AAS), the beautifully restored Camper & Nicholsons tender Gelyce and the iconic offshore racer Apache 555. Jasmine Hill, Event Director of Southampton International Boat Show, said: “The Wooden Boat Stage embodies the heart and craft of the UK’s wooden boat industry, bringing stories, skills and projects to life for our visitors. We are excited to expand the stage in 2026, offering an even bigger platform for talent, innovation and the timeless appeal of wooden boats.” See the full day-by-day schedule on the show’s website.
The show’s speaker line-up at the Boating Stage brings together inspiring stories, practical advice and expert insight from across the sailing world. For example, for those looking to take their first steps into boat ownership, the Westerly Owners Association will offer practical advice on sailing on a budget, proving that getting afloat can be more accessible than many people think. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned boater, the Boating Stage programme offers practical tips and techniques from record breakers, boating professionals and sailing legends. With around 30 speakers lined-up there is a topic for every interest! Here is a taste of what to expect: ■ 18 September: Paul Gullet is Managing Director of Wave International Ltd and a Past President of British Marine ■ 19 September: Sir Robin Knox-Johnston captured public imagination in the 1960s with his solo, nonstop circumnavigation in the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race ■ 19 September: Geoff Holt is a pioneering quadriplegic yachtsman, founder of Wetwheels and Accessible Oceans ■ 20 September: Dr Daniel Moore is a deep-sea biologist, ocean explorer and leader of the Deep Shark Research Group at the University of Exeter ■ 21 September: Chaynee Hodgetts FRSA MMSAR AFNI is a criminal defence and inquest barrister
THE SHIPYARD SAIL HUB
Head to The Ghostship and Sailing Solice to meet Mothership Adrift, Ship Happens, Saving Blue Steel, Jazz Turner and Sailing Project Parrot. Enjoy talks, live podcasts, Q&As and the chance to climb aboard both boats in the marina. See the schedule on the show’s website.
KEY YACHTING J/70 INVITATIONAL CUP
The Key Yachting J/70 Invitational Cup brings competitive sailing to Southampton International Boat Show on Saturday 26 September, with 12 teams battling it out for the title. Supported by the Royal Thames Yacht Club and British Marine, the teams will compete across two heats before the top six go head-to-head in the final. Head to the Shipyard at 5.30pm for the prize giving ceremony, where the winners will be crowned. All the racing action is included with your show ticket!
Beyond the boats and speakers, the show offers a true festival atmosphere. Live music throughout the 10 days, including late-night entertainment on both Fridays and Saturdays, great food and drink, family entertainment and interactive experiences create an event that appeals to seasoned sailors, watersports enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike. Soak up the atmosphere with live music every day and an expanded evening entertainment programme at The Shipyard stage. Catch live music daily, with even more entertainment after hours as The Shipyard stage stays open until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Expect great bands, lively performances and headline acts throughout the week, all included with your show ticket.
▲ Sir Robin Knox-Johnston is one of this year’s speakers specialising in maritime incidents, investigations and forensic evidence ■ 23 September: Murray MacDonald is the founder and CEO of the charity - Autism On The Water ■ 22 September: Joss Creswell is a British solo offshore sailor based in France, competing in the Figaro 3 class ■ 25 & 26 September: Tom Cunliffe is among the world’s leading writers and lecturers on the sea ■ 26 September: Ellie Driver is a professional offshore sailor and naval architect with an MEng in Maritime Engineering The stage will also host the Young Journalist of the Year Award, Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition Awards and The Yacht Harbour Association’s Marina of the Year Awards. See the full day-by-day schedule on the show’s website.
On Friday 18 September, for example, watch The Blue Water Giants, uniting musicians from Procol Harum, Status Quo, Big Country, Tears for Fears and Robbie Williams’ band into one unmissable live act performing timeless classics. The next day look out for The Gloria Estefan Experience. Eva as Gloria Estefan brings the infectious energy, exceptional vocals and charismatic stage presence of the Queen of Latin Pop to life. A Britain’s Got Talent finalist from Southampton, she delivers an authentic tribute that gets audiences singing, dancing and celebrating. With a differing line-up each day, there is something for all the family including Luke & Elliot’s Fun Family Quiz! The full line-up and daily timings can be found on the show website.
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JOIN THE TEAM
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
Hamble-based rigging specialist, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics (part of the Ancasta Group), is celebrating the continuation of its partnership with World Cruising Club, leading organiser of offshore sailing rallies, with a special event at the Southampton International Boat Show on Saturday 19 September. Following the Ancasta Group’s recent partnership with Goslings Rum, visitors to the Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics stand (H4) will be invited to join the expert team from 16:00 for a taste of the island life with a Dark ‘n’ Stormy cocktail, while discovering more about the specialist rigging support available to sailors preparing for coastal cruising, ocean passages and world cruising adventures.
TECH SUPPORT HUB
This year Lewmar, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary, will focus on providing a dedicated Tech Support Hub. Whether you are looking for advice on a long-serving Lewmar product, need help identifying parts, require assistance troubleshooting an installation or want to learn more about their latest innovations, their experts will be available to assist. Visitors are encouraged to bring photographs of existing installations, product serial numbers or details of legacy equipment, enabling the team to help
Earlier this year British Marine revealed the nominees shortlisted for the 2026 Apprentice of the Year Award, celebrating the next generation of talent helping to shape the future of the UK marine industry. Now in its third year, the prestigious award recognises apprentices who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, resilience, innovation and impact within their workplace and across the wider sector. Manj Mahey, Head of Training at British Marine and judge for the Apprentice of the Year Award 2026, said: “The quality of nominations we have received this year has been very impressive and highlights the depth of talent coming through the marine industry. Each nominee has shown real dedication, enthusiasm
identify products and parts, discuss maintenance and servicing requirements and recommend the most suitable solutions for their vessels. In addition to technical support, visitors can explore their winch servicing display, where Lewmar experts will demonstrate best practices for maintaining and servicing winches. For those who enjoy a challenge, they will also be running a winch servicing competition, giving visitors the chance to test their skills and see who can dismantle and reassemble a Lewmar winch in the fastest time. Image: Mike Jones / Waterline Media
TAKE A BREAK
Take a break from exploring the show and enjoy a great choice of food and drink throughout the day. Discover street food inspired by flavours from around the world, alongside the iconic Guinness Bar, a firm favourite for visitors looking to relax and soak up the atmosphere. New for 2026, Dockside brings even more choice with a brand-new food hall, offering visitors another destination to grab a bite, enjoy a drink and recharge before heading back out.
and a willingness to learn, while also making a positive impact within their workplace and wider team.” The winner will be revealed during the Apprentice Recognition Ceremony at the Southampton International Boat Show on 22 September.
FOR THE KIDS
Keep little ones entertained in the dedicated Kids’ Play Area, where they can play, explore and burn off some energy before heading back out to discover everything else the show has to offer. Plus, keep an eye out for Red Funnel’s mascot on 26 September as they make their way around the show. Stop for a high five, snap a family photo and create fun memories. Like a family game? Join award-winning comedy duo Luke & Elliott for a fun-filled family quiz at The Shipyard on 20 and 27 September.
WOMEN IN MARINE
The Women in Marine panel and networking event returns once again, bringing together an inspiring panel of young female professionals to share honest insights into careers across the marine industry. Following record attendance in 2025, this year’s event on 23 September returns with the theme: ‘Real Women. Real Jobs. Real Opportunities’ providing a platform for open discussion, career inspiration and networking, while highlighting the breadth of opportunities available across the sector. Lyndsay McClay, President Elect, British Marine, said: “By bringing together women from different sectors and stages of their careers, we aim to create a space for learning, professional
CHARITY OF THE YEAR
The RNLI is the Southampton International Boat Show’s Charity of the Year for 2026. As the charity that saves lives at sea, the RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat crews, beach lifeguards, water safety advisers and international teams work tirelessly every day to rescue those in danger while promoting water safety through education and prevention. The RNLI will be bringing its lifesaving work to life throughout the show, with boats on display, expert talks, water safety advice and the chance to meet the team. One of the highlights will be the chance to go aboard the Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, which will be moored within the marina. Visitors will also be able to see the new Atlantic 85 Mk4 up close, featuring the latest Raymarine navigation and Image: RNLI
development and meaningful connections. While the discussion will provide valuable insights for those already working in the marine industry, it will also showcase the breadth of rewarding career opportunities available to anyone considering a future in the sector.”
communication technology which supports RNLI crews during lifesaving rescues in some of the most challenging conditions. On the Boating Stage, the RNLI’s Engineering & Supply Team will be providing insights into the development of the Atlantic 85 Mk4. Whether you are an experienced sailor, a watersports enthusiast or simply enjoy spending time by the coast, the RNLI stand (stand H38) will be the place to pick up practical water safety advice. Visitors will be able to speak to RNLI experts, discover how to stay safe on and around the water and learn what to do if the unexpected happens. When booking your tickets, you will have the opportunity to make a donation to support the RNLI’s lifesaving work, helping ensure they can continue to be there when they are needed most.
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The purpose-built marina, Europe’s largest, will be lined with more than 250 boats of every shape and size, from sleek yachts and high-powered motorboats to classic and modern sailing boats.
T
he Southampton International Boat Show will host an exciting array of new vessels, with a series of hotly anticipated world, UK and show debuts from leading global boating brands. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the newest innovations from the likes of Fairline, Princess, Arcona, Delta, Ockelbo, Quarken, Dragonfly, Bellini, Boatworld, Highfield, Nord Star, Hallberg-Rassy, Saffier, Rodman, J/Composites, J/Boats, Windy, Nautitech, Mini Fisher, Duchy and Levi Trentuno, and more. Talking about the line-up, Jasmine Hill, Event Director of Southampton International Boat Show, said:
“Southampton International Boat Show has always been a platform for celebrating the very best from the global boating industry, and 2026 promises to be no exception. This year’s line-up of world leading debuts highlights the incredible innovation, craftsmanship and diversity within our sector, from cutting-edge performance yachts to luxury motor vessels and accessible boats designed for everyday adventures. “We are proud to welcome such an impressive collection of renowned brands to Southampton, giving visitors the unique opportunity to experience the latest developments in boating first-hand.”
WORLD PREMIERES
Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding to showcase the Duchy 45 The largest model in the Duchy Motor Launch range to date, the 14.75m Duchy 45 combines timeless styling with enhanced space, luxury accommodation and twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 pod drives for effortless cruising.
Mini Fisher to share the Mini Fisher Classic Making its world debut, the Mini Fisher Classic blends 1950s-inspired retro styling with modern technology, offering a lightweight, versatile and accessible craft for leisure boating.
UK PREMIERES
Fairline to unveil the Fairline Targa 58 GTO A power grand touring yacht designed to connect indoor and outdoor living, featuring fold-out balconies, a beach club platform and a spacious social layout.
Multihull Solutions to showcase the Dragonfly 40 Carbon A sail performance trimaran making its UK debut, offering reduced weight, enhanced stiffness and speeds of more than 24 knots.
Highfield Boats to showcase the Highfield ADV9 A power cabin crossover designed for adventure, combining offshore capability with four-berth accommodation and all-season versatility.
MCC Marine Services to display the Nord Star 49+ SCY Flybridge A power luxury flybridge yacht offering adaptable layouts, premium craftsmanship and exceptional onboard comfort. Transworld Yachts Sailing to present the Hallberg-Rassy 370 A sail cruising yacht combining modern performance, generous accommodation and award-winning Swedish design.
Sebino to present the Bellini Astor 38 A power weekender combining refined styling, flexible accommodation and twin Volvo Penta V8 engines delivering 40-knot performance. Key Yachting to celebrate the Nautitech Catamaran N41 Type S The new 12.6m Nautitech 41 Type S introduces a new era of performance cruising, combining innovative hull design, sailing performance and adaptable living spaces. MCC Marine Services to launch Nord Star 49+ SCY with world-first Triple Stern Drive configuration Featuring a world-first Volvo Penta D6-480 DPI Triple Stern Drive setup, the custom Nord Star 49+ SCY showcases premium craftsmanship, flexible layouts and advanced propulsion. Wessex Marine to unveil the Levi Trentuno Inspired by Sonny Levi’s legendary G. Cinquanta design, the new Levi Trentuno combines 1960s-inspired styling, handcrafted Italian heritage and race-bred performance.
Williams Marine and Watersports to launch the Saffier SE 28 Leopard A sail daysailer featuring a new reversed-bow hull, four berths and extensive customisation options.
Windsong Boats to debut the Windsong Windsong is a unique, hand-crafted wooden sailing dinghy that blends traditional craftsmanship with high-performance design. Its powerful lug rig and lightweight hull create a fast, responsive and deeply rewarding sailing experience.
SE Yachts to present the UK premiere of the Najad 451 AC A sail bluewater cruiser combining a new aft cockpit layout, push-button sailing and handcrafted Scandinavian craftsmanship for long-distance cruising.
RBS Marine to showcase the Rodman 790 Ventura SD A power sun deck model designed around space efficiency, flexible cockpit configurations and practical cruising.
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UK PREMIERES
Image: Sailing Energy / J Boats
Key Yachting to exhibit the J/Composites and J/Boats J40 A sail offshore performance cruiser combining speed, stability and comfort for both extended cruising and racing. Image: Jerome Kelagopian
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Excite Sports introducing Boatworld Cruiser 320 A power inflatable cruiser with a catamaranstyle hull for enhanced stability, spaciousness and easy storage. Excite Sports’ debut of Boatworld Carbon Pro 330 A power inflatable tender designed for yacht owners, coastal adventures and watersports.
BUYING A BOAT?
Parkstone Bay Marina to showcase the Windy SR40 This is a power performance yacht showcasing Scandinavian design, craftsmanship and dynamic handling.
SHOW PREMIERES
Norbalt Ltd to showcase the Ockelbo 21 A power boat making its show debut, combining Scandinavian design with versatile performance.
Clarke & Carter to unveil the Quarken 27 T-Top Another power boat making its show debut, featuring Nordic design, smart functionality and flexible cruising. Whaly 620R boat debut Built on the success of the Whaly 455 and 500, the 620R Pro delivers a bigger platform while keeping Whaly’s trademark drop-down bow door for unbeatable access, safety and versatility.
EXPECTED FOR 2027
SE Yachts to offer an exclusive preview of its 2027 line-up Showcasing the all-new Arcona 465 Mk II sailing yacht and the Delta 48 Adventure power cruiser ahead of their UK launches next year.
Sirena Yachts to debut the Sirena 48 The new Sirena 48 combines long-range capability and exceptional interior volume to deliver luxury cruising with spacious living areas more commonly found on much larger yachts.
ALSO ON SHOW
PRINCESS YACHTS Visitors to the Princess display will have the opportunity to experience five yachts from across the range, including the X80, Y72, S65, F58 and V50. Alongside its yacht showcase, Princess will also be celebrating the people helping to shape the future of British boatbuilding. The strength of the company’s apprenticeship programme has recently been recognised at a national level by British Marine, with carpentry apprentice Jordan Matthew Coles and marine engineering apprentice Niamh Taylor-May accounting for two of the three finalists shortlisted for the 2026 British Marine Apprentice of the Year Award. The overall winner will be announced during the Southampton International Boat Show. SETAG YACHTS A 2014 Princess 72 yacht underwent a comprehensive SETAG refit around four years ago and remains a great example of what is possible through thoughtful design, craftsmanship and quality refurbishment. Rather than focusing on buying new, Setag are showcasing how a pre-owned yacht can be completely transformed to meet an owner’s lifestyle and expectations delivering exceptional value for money without compromising on luxury or finish. With many new yachts on display, it is a timely opportunity to highlight the benefits of investing in a quality SETAG refit as an alternative route to ownership.
Buying your first boat is exciting, but it can also feel like entering a whole new world. Sail or power? New or pre-owned? Marina berth, trailer or dry stack? And what should you budget for once the boat is yours? The reassuring answer is that you do not need to work everything out before you start looking. Southampton International Boat Show is the ideal place to explore – compare boats side by side, step aboard different models, speak directly to marine experts and, importantly, get out on the water. Start with the boating life you want Before worrying about brands or specifications, think about what a good day on the water looks like for you. Are you imagining family trips, fishing, watersports, coastal weekends or longer sailing adventures? How many people would usually be aboard? Would you need overnight accommodation or lots of storage? Do you want something that can be trailered home, or would you keep it at a marina? A rough picture of how you will use your boat helps exhibitors point you towards models that genuinely suit your plans. Compare several types of boat One of the biggest advantages of SIBS is the variety. The 2026 line-up stretches from compact craft, inflatables and RIBs to sailing yachts, motor cruisers and catamarans. First-time buyers can explore boats such as the lightweight Mini Fisher Classic, the inflatable Boatworld Cruiser 320 and Carbon Pro 330, the Ockelbo 21 and the Quarken 27 T-Top, before comparing them with larger models elsewhere in the marina. Pay attention to the practical details. Is it easy to get aboard and move around? Is there enough seating and storage? How is the view from the helm? Would the layout work for children, guests, pets or the kit you plan to carry? Take photos and notes as you go. After your fifth cockpit, it becomes surprisingly easy to forget which clever storage space belonged to which boat. Try before you buy with Try-a-Boat Looking from the pontoon is useful. Feeling how a boat moves on the water is even better. Try-a-Boat is included in the show ticket and gives visitors the chance to experience different boats with expert support. The 2026 line-up includes an Axopar 37, Sun Odyssey 319, Highfield 700 Sport RIB, Hanse sailing yachts, a Jeanneau NC11 and UKSA J/80. Availability varies, so check the latest information when planning your day. Even when the boat you try is not one you would buy, the experience can
help you understand the difference between sail and power, open and enclosed layouts, or relaxed cruising and something more performance-led. The show also offers paddleboarding and kayaking with Rockley Watersports, plus accessible powerboating through Wetwheels – a useful reminder that getting onto the water does not have to begin with ownership. Learn from people who already own boats Make time for the Boating Stage. A particularly useful session for newcomers is The Route to Boat Ownership: Sailing on a Budget, presented by the Westerly Owners Association on 19, 21, 25 and 27 September. The session looks at the older GRP boats available at relatively modest prices, alongside storage and mooring choices, maintenance costs and ways to begin sailing without an enormous budget. You do not need to become an expert in one visit, but hearing experienced boaters discuss the realities of ownership will help you ask better questions. Ask about the full cost The purchase price is only part of the picture. Ask about mooring or storage, insurance, servicing, fuel, winter maintenance, safety equipment and training. If the boat is trailerable, include the trailer, towing requirements and launch arrangements in your calculations. Ask what is included in the quoted price too, as essentials such as electronics, covers and safety equipment may need to be added. Across the show you will find boat dealers, equipment specialists, insurers, marinas, training organisations and owner associations. Rather than trying to solve everything alone, use their expertise to begin building a realistic ownership plan. The RNLI team will also be at the show sharing practical advice on staying safe on and around the water. Safety might not be the most glamorous item on your shopping list, but understanding the right equipment, training and preparation is an essential part of confident boat ownership. There are no silly questions. A good marine business should be willing to explain the essentials clearly rather than overwhelm you with jargon. Leave with a shortlist, not pressure Your visit does not have to end with a signed order form. A successful day at SIBS might simply mean leaving with two or three possible boats, a realistic idea of ongoing costs and one clear next step. That could be arranging a sea trial, booking an RYA course, speaking to a local marina, exploring a boat club or researching carefully chosen pre-owned options. Come curious, ask plenty of questions and wear comfortable shoes!
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BOATING ESSENTIALS The Southampton International Boat Show is set to showcase an extensive collection of marine technology, equipment and services, with more than 20 world, UK, European and show debuts. Here we share just a few of the products and services on show this year.
Marine technology, communications and onboard systems Icom IC-M430 VHF and MA-600TRBB AIS transponder – World premieres: Icom will showcase a compact fixed-mount VHF and Class B+ AIS transponder designed to support reliable communications and vessel visibility. (Stand A58)
ZGYRO all-electric gyro stabilisation system – UK premiere: ZGYRO will present a compact, oil-free stabilisation system designed to reduce boat roll at anchor and while underway. (Stand H172)
Advance Yacht Systems onboard equipment – UK premieres: Advance Yacht Systems will present the Cristec C-Box energy-management system, Frigomar HE Series 12V air-conditioning units and updated Dessalator watermakers. (Stand H148)
Anchoring, launching and deck equipment
Jimmy Green Marine Ankerplex Drop anchor – World premiere: Jimmy Green Marine will introduce a stainless-steel anchor designed for reliable self-launching, rapid setting and resetting as conditions change. (Stand H8) Jimmy Green Marine SnubberBuddy – UK premiere: The SnubberBuddy Quick Release Chain Hook is designed to make attaching and remotely releasing an anchor snubber faster and safer. (Stand H8) Marine Innovations RIB Fender Mate – World premiere: Marine Innovations will present a practical system designed to make attaching and adjusting fenders on rigid inflatable boats quicker and easier. (Stand L119)
Webasto BlueCool SX-Series and Air Top Pro 25 – European premiere: Webasto will showcase compact marine air-conditioning and heating systems developed for onboard comfort. (Stand H256) IMP Aqua AMP charging range – product debut: IMP will introduce a range of marine-grade wireless, USB-C and integrated charging products for boats and outdoor environments. (Stand H246) Dometic cooling and power systems – new products on show: Dometic will display marine refrigeration, air-conditioning and 48V climatecontrol products for conventional, electric and hybrid vessels. (Stand W4) Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions – new products on show: Fischer Panda UK | Power Solutions has been appointed a UK distributor for Instagrid, adding the German manufacturer’s portable battery power systems to its portfolio of engineered power solutions for marine, mobile and off-grid applications. (Stand W2) Wifionboard: A market leader in providing onboard internet access for sailing yachts, motor boats and inland boats. At the show they will have the 4 way 5G MiMo antenna which is designed to work with their Teltonikia RUT M30 Router and a HAUAWAI B636 CAT 18 4G router with the 2way 4G Mimo. (Stand W26)
Onboard living and watersports
GN Espace Alize Gastro Grill – World premiere: GN Espace will unveil an IPX5-rated electric cooking appliance designed specifically for exposed yacht decks. (Stand H169) Ship Shape Bedding and Vispring marine mattresses – World premiere: Ship Shape Bedding will present bespoke Vispring mattresses handmade to fit the individual dimensions and shapes of yacht and motorboat berths. (Stand H88)
Silway UK magnetic living products – UK debut: Designed for life on the move and stylish modern living, Silwy’s magnetic glasses, tableware and smart accessories combine luxury design with practical functionality, keeping everything securely in place. (Stand H78) Sublue Vapor Pro underwater scooter – World premiere: Sea Scooter UK will present a highperformance underwater scooter offering speeds of up to 12km/h and a depth rating of 40m. (Stand H100)
Sailing clothing and marine apparel
Bruntons: Bruntons is the only company who design and manufacture feathering, folding and fixed bladed propellers. (Stand H192) Tek Tanks tank level technology: Meet the next generation of tank level sensing. Simarine STR1 and STR2 use precision radar technology to measure water, fuel, grey water and waste without probes, floats or moving parts. (Stand B014) Vanclaes range of modular stainless steel trailers: Vanclaes returns to the show to showcase their range of modular stainless steel trailers. (Stand P26) SBS Trailers and Tectrax C-ROVR – UK premiere: SBS Trailers will showcase a remotely operated electric system designed to simplify boat launching and recovery. (Stand P38) Aquadeck: Premium EVA marine decks and mats for boat owners, trade professionals and OEM customers. Equipped with state-of-the-art design technology, they accept template patterns in both physical and digital formats. (Stand H164)
Rooster sailing clothing and accessories – show premieres: Rooster will introduce the Airflex Lite Spray Top, SB2 Trainers and updated Technical Shorts 2.0, alongside several new sailing accessories. (Stand W38) dryrobe clothing and RNLI collaboration – new products on display: Returning to the show, dryrobe will present its changing robes and apparel, including a new collaboration with the RNLI, the Show’s Charity of the Year for 2026. (Stand H76) Mustang Survival TAKU waterproof clothing – UK premiere: Mustang Survival will showcase its new men’s TAKU waterproof jacket and bibs, designed for sailing, angling and wider outdoor use. (Stand H70)
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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Propulsion
Honda Marine UK outboard range – new products on show: Honda Marine UK will display outboards from across its 2.3hp to 350hp range, alongside Honwave inflatable boats. (Stand P40) Barrus to showcase marine brands: Discover the latest innovations from Mercury Marine, Yanmar Marine and Barrus’ extensive portfolio of exclusive marine equipment brands. (Stand P122 & P123) Electric Outboard: Helping sailing and rowing clubs, activity centres, individual boaters and water-based businesses make the shift away from petrol and diesel engines to reliable electric motors that are cleaner, quieter and cheaper to run with minimal maintenance. (Stand L122) Suzuki: Discover more than just Suzuki’s latest outboard technology. From free on-water experiences and competitions to expert advice and fundraising for Wetwheels, there is plenty happening on Suzuki’s stands throughout the show. (various stands) Yamaha: Discover a range of boats, Yamaha outboard engines, WaveRunners and Torqeedo electric motors. (Various stands)
Insurance, Training, Finance and Associations
Promarine Finance: Whether you are setting sail for life on the ocean waves, upgrading your weekend cruiser or seeking thrills and adventure in a RIB or sportsboat, they offer flexible marine mortgages secured on your vessel. (Stand P114) CompareYachtInsurance.com: No one wants to spend hours filling out forms and phoning round different insurers, so they have built a completely free service that makes finding insurance quotes for yachts of every size and value as simple as possible. (Stand H139) Haven Knox-Johnston: Over the years Haven K-J has grown to become one of the UK’s leading providers in boat insurance, with access to wider markets through Haven K-J Specialist based in
Marinas
Southampton, Poole, Plymouth and Maidstone. (Stand H208G) Ardent Training: Whether you are just dipping your toes into the world of sailing or aiming to take your skills to the next level, you will find something for you at the Ardent Training stand. (Stand H50) UKSA: If you are looking to launch a career at sea, gain an internationally recognised qualification or simply learn a new skill, UKSA offers expert tuition, industry-leading facilities and a supportive learning environment. (Stands L44, M928, M926) The Cruising Association: The CA will launch the 2027 Cruising Almanac, unveil new membership initiatives and offer a programme of expert-led sessions. Visitors can meet CA specialists for practical advice on technical and regulatory matters, explore the award winning CAptain’s Mate and find out how the CA’s Crewing Service connects skippers and crew for voyages from local sailing to ocean passages. (Stand H244) RYA: Head to the RYA stand for all the knowledge and information you need to make the most of your time on the water. Throughout the show, RYA experts will be on hand to share their knowledge and advice. (Stand H128) RNLI: The RNLI is the Southampton International Boat Show’s Charity of the Year for 2026 and will be bringing its lifesaving work to life throughout the show, with boats on display, expert talks, water safety advice and the chance to meet the team. (Stands H38, M914)
Yacht Havens Group: At every Yacht Havens, you will find a friendly team of boating enthusiasts running an efficient and fully serviced marina. Whether you are passing through or intending to stay, they will ensure your time on the water is all yours. (Stand 208F) Premier Marinas: They operate 18 of the finest South Coast marinas and boatyards, including Europe’s largest indoor dry stack at Trafalgar Wharf. Recent additions to their network includes Haslar, East Cowes, Portland, Weymouth, Dartmouth, Deacons and Hamble Yacht Services. (Stand W28) St Katharine Docks Marina: Described as a secluded enclave in the middle of one of the world’s greatest
cities, St Katharine Docks Marina has 185 berths in three basins, for vessels up to 40m long, as a visitor or on long-term berth contracts. (Stand H208E) Tingdene Marinas: With 12 premium Tingdene Marinas and Boat Sales offices across central and southern England, their teams are here to turn your boating dreams into reality and give you access to the best of the UK’s inland waterways. (Stand P134) TransEurope Marinas: TransEurope Marinas was formed nearly 40 years ago as a simple way for independent marina managers across Europe to support one another, share practical ideas and offer better value to their berth holders. Today, the network spans 11 countries, around 80 destinations and close to 45,000 berths. (Stand H208J)
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New or used? A practical guide to buying a yacht
“That peace of mind is often underestimated,” Stuart adds. “Especially for first-time buyers, knowing that everything is new, supported and built to current standards removes a lot of the uncertainty.” However, new builds come with tradeoffs - most notably time. Depending on the model and level of customisation, delivery schedules can extend well beyond a single season.
A well-maintained used yacht can represent exceptional value
T
here are few purchases that blend emotion and investment quite like buying a yacht.
An Ancasta sales broker presenting a pre-owned yacht to a potential buyer
For many prospective owners, the journey begins as a daydream - quiet anchorages, open horizons and the promise of escape. Turning that vision into reality, however, requires a cleareyed assessment of priorities, budget and intended use.
“Unless it is one of the new boats we have available for immediate delivery, it does require patience,” he notes. “If your ambition is to be on the water for the next season, a factory order may not align with that. Timing is a critical factor.”
“The key is understanding what matters most to you as an owner and making decisions that support that”
One of the first and most significant decisions buyers face is whether to buy new or explore the pre-owned market. According to Stuart Brotherton, Head of Sales at Ancasta, it is a question that extends beyond simple cost comparison.
The strength of the pre-owned market
“People often come in with a strong initial instinct, either drawn to the idea of something brand new, or convinced there must be value in the used market,” he explains. “But the right answer depends entirely on how they want to use the boat and what kind of ownership experience they are looking for.”
“A well-maintained used yacht can represent exceptional value,” says Stuart. “Any initial depreciation has already occurred, which means buyers can often access a higher specification or a larger vessel than they might if buying new.”
At the other end of the spectrum, the pre-owned market offers a different proposition, often defined by value and immediacy.
Availability is equally important. Unlike new builds, which are subject to production timelines, preowned yachts are usually ready for purchase and handover within a much shorter timeframe.
The case for buying new
A new yacht carries an obvious appeal. At its core is the ability to specify a boat that aligns precisely with an owner’s expectations - both functionally and aesthetically. Layout, materials, onboard systems and performance characteristics can be tailored to suit a very specific brief.
“For many clients, particularly those keen to maximise a season or working to a specific cruising plan, that immediacy is a deciding factor,” Stuart explains. “But buying used does require a more forensic approach.
“For some buyers, particularly those planning extended cruising or with clearly defined requirements, that level of control is invaluable,” says Stuart. “You are not adapting to someone else’s decisions – you are starting with a clean sheet.” There are also practical advantages. Modern yachts benefit from advances in hull design, propulsion efficiency and onboard technology. Combined with manufacturer warranties, this typically results in a more predictable ownership experience in the early years.
Assess your priorities, budget and intended use when deciding whether to buy new or used
Condition, service history and previous usage all play a critical role in determining long-term value. That is why initiatives like Ancasta Approved have become so important - they bring structure and reassurance to the process. “Due diligence is everything. A proper survey, a clear maintenance record and an understanding of how the boat has been operated are essential. It is not about avoiding risk entirely – that is unrealistic but about managing it intelligently.”
Navigating the buying process Whether new or used, the process of buying a yacht can feel complex. Financing structures, insurance requirements, technical surveys and contractual negotiations all require careful handling.
“It is easy to underestimate the complexity,” Stuart says. “Our role is to simplify the journey by breaking it down into manageable steps and ensuring clients understand what is happening at each stage.” A clear understanding of intended use remains central. A yacht suited to weekend coastal cruising will differ significantly from one designed for extended offshore passages or entertaining on a larger scale. “The more clarity you have at the outset - how you will use the boat, where you will cruise and with how many people - the easier it becomes to identify the right option,” he adds.
Thinking beyond the purchase A common oversight among first-time buyers is focusing solely on acquisition, rather than the broader lifecycle of ownership. Maintenance, running costs and eventual resale all warrant consideration from the outset.
“A yacht is not a static asset,” Stuart points out. “It evolves with the owner’s needs. You might start with coastal cruising and later move into longer passages, or upgrade as your experience grows.” Resale value is shaped by factors such as brand reputation, build quality and ongoing maintenance. Keeping a yacht well-maintained and properly documented has a direct impact on its future marketability. “Thinking ahead does not diminish the enjoyment - it enhances it,” he says. “It ensures you are making decisions that support both your current use and your long-term position.”
A question of priorities
Ultimately, the choice between new and used is not a question of right or wrong, but of alignment. Buyers seeking the latest design, full customisation and a warranty-backed experience may find new builds the natural route. Those prioritising value, immediate access and proven performance often gravitate towards the pre-owned market. “There is no universal answer,” Stuart concludes. “The key is understanding what matters most to you as an owner and making decisions that support that.”
Ancasta International Yacht Sales is one of Europe’s leading yacht brokerage and service companies. With over 40 years of experience and offices across the UK and Europe, Ancasta supports owners through new and used yacht sales, commissioning and aftersales, helping them get the very best from life on the water. ancasta.com
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BOAT SEA FISHING ZONE BAIT OF THE MONTH
FEATURE ARTICLE
THE GIANTS ARE BACK
YORKSHIRE’S BLUEFIN TUNA SURPRISE
For generations of British sea anglers, the words “bluefin tuna” belonged to another era – a time when enormous tuna prowled the North Sea and Yorkshire was one of the world’s big-game fishing destinations. Now, the giants are back. Last month, the crew of Whitby vessel Dominator brought an astonishing Atlantic bluefin tuna into harbour weighing an estimated 746.5lb (338kg). It is believed to be the first bluefin landed at Whitby since 1939 – almost 90 years ago. And it was not an isolated encounter. Two tuna of around 320kg were caught off the Yorkshire coast within days of each other, marking the first significant catches there since the 1960s. For boat anglers, the story is particularly fascinating because these fish are not newcomers to British waters. During the 1930s, Scarborough and Whitby were famous for their ‘tunny’ fishing, attracting wealthy adventurers and even Hollywood stars. The British
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NEW KIT rod-and-line record – an incredible 851lb fish caught off Yorkshire in 1933 – still stands today. Then the tuna disappeared. Overfishing devastated the herring and other small pelagic fish that formed their food supply, while tuna populations themselves were heavily exploited. Decades of improved fisheries management have since allowed bluefin numbers to recover, with the fish gradually recolonising parts of their former range.
Scientists believe the return is also being helped by changing sea temperatures and recovering prey stocks. For anyone heading offshore this summer, there is a bigger message here. Bluefin are apex predators, and their presence can indicate that the ecosystem beneath them is supporting an abundance of life. The giants have not simply returned to Yorkshire. They have returned to a sea that is changing – and boat anglers have a front-row seat.
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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 R* and cap. Email your photo to editor@allatsea.co.uk including your name, fish species and where it was caught. This month’s winner is Sean Marsh with a halibut caught in the Lofoten Islands in Norway. The runner-up is Charlie Smith, 7, with his first pollock aboard his dad’s boat out of North Shields. See more of your catches at www.allatsea.co.uk.
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A NEW ERA
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Sustainability is emerging as one of the defining conversations within the marine industry
The global yacht brokerage market is entering a new chapter in 2026, with younger buyers, sustainability concerns and shifting lifestyle priorities transforming how people buy, sell and use yachts.
Richard Roberts, CEO of TheYachtMarket
A
fter the extraordinary pandemic boom that saw unprecedented demand across the marine industry, the market is now stabilising into what many brokers describe as a more balanced and increasingly sophisticated landscape. While overall recreational boat sales softened slightly throughout 2025 amid wider economic pressures, the appetite for premium and lifestyle-led boating experiences remains remarkably resilient. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, U.S. recreational boat sales declined by 8.8 per cent during 2025, as higher borrowing costs and economic uncertainty impacted consumer spending. However, despite this broader slowdown, the luxury yacht market has remained notably strong.
CHANGING EXPECTATIONS
Data published by Denison Yachting revealed that global superyacht sales increased by almost 20 per cent yearon-year in 2025, with 470 sales recorded compared to 392 the previous year. The figures underline the continued resilience of the premium end of the market and signal a shift away from impulse purchasing towards more considered, long-term investment buying. According to yacht brokerage experts at TheYachtMarket, today’s buyers are entering the market with very different
Many owners are now viewing yachts as an extension of their lifestyle
expectations than those seen just a few years ago. “The frenzy of the pandemic years has naturally settled, but what we are seeing now is a healthier and more informed market,” said Richard Roberts, CEO of TheYachtMarket. “Buyers are taking more time to research, compare and understand long-term ownership costs, but demand for quality yachts and premium experiences remains incredibly strong.”
The rise of the ‘work from anywhere’ culture has also influenced buying habits, with many owners now viewing yachts as an extension of their lifestyle and workspace rather than simply a holiday asset. Features such as onboard office spaces, advanced connectivity systems and multifunctional living areas are becoming increasingly desirable, particularly among younger international buyers.
YOUNGER BUYERS
At the same time, sustainability is emerging as one of the defining conversations within the marine industry. While luxury and environmental responsibility were once seen as conflicting ideas, the yacht market is increasingly embracing greener technologies and more eco-conscious design. Research from Yacht Market Intelligence suggests that more than 68 per cent of yacht buyers now actively consider sustainability features when making purchasing decisions. This shift is driving growing demand for hybrid propulsion systems, solar integration, eco-friendly materials and fuel-efficient explorer yachts. According to The Financial Times, sailing catamarans and explorer yachts are seeing increased interest from buyers seeking more sustainable and experience-led boating. “The sustainability conversation is no longer niche,” said Richard. “Buyers are becoming far more aware of fuel efficiency, materials and environmental impact, particularly younger clients who expect sustainability to be part of the overall ownership package.”
One of the biggest shifts reshaping the industry is the arrival of younger buyers into the market. Historically associated with older high-net-worth individuals, yacht ownership is increasingly attracting entrepreneurs, tech professionals and lifestyle-focused buyers in their 40s and even 30s. Research from Yacht Market Intelligence suggests the average age of first-time superyacht buyers has fallen from around 56 to below 50 over the last decade, driven largely by new wealth creation in sectors such as technology, AI and digital business. This younger demographic is also changing what buyers prioritise. Rather than purely focusing on status or size, many are seeking flexible, lifestyle-oriented vessels that support remote working, family travel, wellness and adventure. A report from Business Insider highlighted how younger yacht buyers are increasingly prioritising onboard connectivity, wellness spaces and sustainability features, alongside practical long-range cruising capabilities. “Today’s buyers are asking very different questions,” explained Richard. “Fast internet connectivity, practical layouts, eco-conscious features and ease of ownership are often just as important as performance or prestige.”
SUSTAINABILITY CONVERSATION
BETTER INFORMED
Alongside changing buyer priorities, brokers are also navigating a more cautious and selective market overall. Unlike the rapid-fire purchasing decisions seen during the pandemic years, today’s buyers are taking longer to commit, conducting more detailed due diligence and negotiating harder on pricing. Market analysis published by Berthon International found that although enquiry levels have softened slightly in some areas of the brokerage sector, the quality of enquiries has improved significantly, with buyers carrying out comprehensive research before entering negotiations. “Buyers are better informed than ever before,” said Richard. “Most clients have already carried out extensive online research before speaking with a broker, which means transparency, accurate pricing and trust are more important than ever.” Digital transformation is also accelerating within the brokerage sector itself. Virtual yacht tours, video walkthroughs and data-rich online listings are now expected as standard, while international buyers are increasingly comfortable purchasing remotely. As a result, yacht brokerages are investing more heavily in digital marketing, international visibility and technologyled customer experiences in order to remain competitive in an increasingly global market. Geographically, demand patterns are also evolving. While the United States continues to dominate global yacht sales activity, brokers are reporting
rising interest from buyers across the Middle East, Asia and Latin America as global wealth creation continues to expand. According to analysis featured by Business Insider, the global ultrahigh-net-worth population is projected to increase by more than 30 per cent by 2030, a trend expected to support long-term growth within the luxury marine sector.
EVOLVING MARKET
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2026, experts believe the market will continue shifting towards smarter, more lifestyledriven ownership. Pre-owned yacht sales are expected to remain strong as buyers seek value and faster availability, while demand for explorer yachts, catamarans and eco-conscious vessels is likely to continue growing. Research from Yacht Market Intelligence also suggests explorer yachts are now commanding premiums of between 15 - 20 per cent over more traditional motor yacht models due to rising buyer demand. “The market is evolving rather than slowing,” concluded Richard. “People still aspire to the freedom, privacy and lifestyle that boating offers, but they are approaching ownership in a more thoughtful and experience-focused way than ever before.” For the global yacht brokerage industry, 2026 may ultimately be remembered not as a slowdown, but as the beginning of a smarter, more modern era of yacht ownership. ■ TheYachtMarket.com
“People still aspire to the freedom, privacy and lifestyle that boating offers, but they are approaching ownership in a more thoughtful and experiencefocused way than ever before”
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Shootin’ the Breeze...
All at Sea chats to Stuart Brotherton, Sales Director at Ancasta International Boat Sales.
AAS: What is your advice to sellers aiming to realistically achieve the highest market value for their boat? SB: Make sure the basics are done well. It is obvious that condition counts for a lot, so ensuring the boat is clean and well-presented is key. Consider removing personal effects from the interior of the boat if there are unnecessary items onboard as first impressions really do count. AAS: What are buyers’ biggest misconceptions when looking to buy a new boat? SB: I would not say that I could pinpoint one thing in particular as no two boat deals are ever the same. Every client has different requirements and levels of expectation, so we have to be dynamic in our approach and ready to react to whatever is presented to us.
“We will be exhibiting a selection of both new and used sail, power and Are you a sailor, and if so, what is your multihull yachts at a new AAS: dream boat? I do enjoy sailing, but I would say I am generally appointment-led showcase SB: happy if I am afloat in some way - whether on a yacht, a powerboat or a paddleboard. If I were to choose in Swanwick Marina” one boat, without question it would the Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 60. It is a beautiful looking boat, has a fantastic interior and can certainly get a move on when required.
AAS: What does your role as Ancasta’s Sales Director involve? SB: I oversee all aspects on the sales side of the business which includes our own central offices and all franchise locations. Combined, this is 22 sites across the UK and Europe. As well as focusing on the brokerage network, I also work with our new boat Brand Managers to help ensure we maximise opportunities across our new boat offering.
AAS: Will Ancasta be at the Southampton International Boat Show this year? SB: This autumn we are doing things a little differently. We will be exhibiting a selection of both new and used sail, power and multihull yachts at a new appointment-led showcase in Swanwick Marina, following on from the Cannes Yachting Festival. See page 6 for more details.
AAS: You have been with Ancasta for more than 10 years – how has the technology you use evolved in that time and how has it improved the buying and selling process for customers? SB: At Ancasta, we are lucky to have our own CRM system which we have built from the ground up and can update and develop as, and when, we see fit. This is a fantastic asset, and we have recently integrated an AI element into the programme to make us even more efficient and professional in the way we manage our clients. On the client side, we introduced a tool that allows any snags or warranty claims to be managed in one simple app on their phones. Before this, it was all on email. AAS: Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, Ancasta reported strong sales even in the traditionally quieter end of last year. What were the reasons behind this? SB: Last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival saw our best performance on record for that show. There are two main factors I would attribute this success to. The first is how many strong brands we represent, which in turn creates a lot of opportunities. The second is our structure. We have a very strong and capable sales team which means we can react quickly and effectively to maximise opportunities when they are presented to us. AAS: How would you describe the new and used boat market in 2026, and is it a similar story in Ancasta’s brokerage offices across Europe? SB: It is no secret we are in a tough market - both on the new boat and brokerage fronts. On the new boats side, as I mentioned we are lucky to represent so many strong brands, which means that we have consistent interest across the portfolio - if one brand is quiet, then another will be busy, so it evens out. On brokerage, we have had some recent successes both in the UK and across our European offices across both power and sail boats, and across all sizes and price brackets. This comes from having a strong network covering multiple locations which puts us in a great position. Total number of sales is not what we would like to be seeing of course, but there is business being done.
QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS Are you a morning or night person? I am okay with an early start, but I am more of a night person Favourite country to visit on holiday? Croatia What is your favourite sport to play/watch? Without question, rugby Moment in history you would love to have been at? 2003 Rugby World Cup Final What is your favourite film? The Wolf of Wall Street If you could have dinner with one person, who would it be? Jonny Wilkinson
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Used Chain
Dock Bumpers
Anchor Straightener
Polyester Mooring Lines
Boat Stands
6x18.5mm DIN766 8x24mm DIN766 10x28 mm DIN766 10x30 mm ISO 12x36 mm ISO
2.5kg £14.95 4.5kg £22.65 316 S/S Voyager Anchor (DeltaType) 7kg £40.29 10kg £49.75 2kg £69.20 5kg £139.00 14kg £69.60 10kg £240.00 16kg £384.00 20kg £99.75 20kg £480.00 25kg £625.00
6kg £34.08 10kg £64.20 16kg £96.75 20kg £109.50 30kg £149.00
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
Titan 316 Stainless Chain
New Ball Joint assembly with easy to replace rubber pads
Boarding Fender
Ratchet Strap 6m x 5 Tonne
White or Navy
£9.95
45cm x 12cm
£39.95 each
Carriage = £12.50 up to 10kg & £15.00 up to 30kg All prices include vat Goods weighing more than 30kg, carriage quoted at time of order. at 20% and correct Carriage charge is to most UK mainland destinations only. Please email or call for at time of print. Scottish Highlands & Isles, English Islands, N Ireland & Eire, Plus European destinations.
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25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
Photos of the Month
Send in your photos and you could be in All at Sea, on our social pages 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 Photo of the Year reader vote.
Hungerford Canal on a cold January day by David Hooper.
Approach to Keyhaven from the Solent by Hazel Branson.
HMS Prince of Wales anchored in the Solent. Sent in by Chris Beazer.
THIS O M NTH’S WINNING PHOTO
Steve Payne sent this photo of a striking rainbow over Sliema, Malta.
The Greenpeace vessel Witness on the River Hamble at Swanwick. Thanks to Ken Johnson for sending in this photo.
Waszps racing in Poole Harbour courtesy of David Law.
‘Heading out into the haar’ by Hazel Acland.
‘Sunset on white cliffs’ courtesy of Malcom Spence.
Fareham Reach from Porchester Castle on a sunny winter day. Thank you to David Graham-Smith for sending in this photo. T&Cs: By submitting a photo you agree that it might be used in All at Sea, All at Sea’s social pages and newsletter. By submitting images, each entrant confirms they have the permission of anyone pictured in the image. The photo must be an original creation - no copyrighted images may be used. If you are under the age of 18 you must have permission to enter from your parent or guardian. By submitting an entry, your parent/carer/guardian is deemed to have given such consent and to agree to the use of the entry as described in these terms and conditions. Monthly winners will go forward to a final reader vote at the end of each year. Sign up to the newsletter at www.allatsea.co.uk
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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CRUISING MATTERS
Cruise. Explore. Connect.
The CA was founded in 1908 specifically to meet the needs of cruising sailors and provides services, information, help and advice to thousands of members worldwide. For more information visit www.theca.org.uk.
VISIT THE CA AT THE SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW GUIDANCE NOTE:
INSTALLING LITHIUM BATTERIES FOR DOMESTIC POWER ON LEISURE CRAFT
knowledge and regional insight of these cruising waters. Visit on European Inland Waterways Day (22 Sept) and you will enjoy a complimentary digital copy of An Introduction to the European Inland Waterways, normally priced at £19.95.
CRUISING EXPERTISE, INSPIRATION AND COMMUNITY – ALL ON STAND H244
Southampton International Boat Show returns from 18 – 27 September, and the Cruising Association will be bringing a wealth of cruising knowledge, practical advice and inspiration to Stand H244 in New Wave Hall South. Whether you are taking your first steps into cruising, planning adventures closer to home, exploring Europe’s inland waterways or preparing to head further offshore, make the CA stand part of your day at the show. It is an opportunity to talk face-to-face with experienced cruisers, get answers to practical questions, discover useful cruising resources and technology, and meet others who share your enthusiasm for life afloat. There will also be competitions, special offers and plenty of opportunities to catch up and socialise.
MEET THE EXPERTS
Throughout the show, the CA is hosting a daily programme of informal dropin sessions, giving you the chance to meet some of our specialist volunteers whose knowledge helps make the CA such a valuable cruising resource. No appointment needed - simply drop by, ask questions and tap into their first-hand knowledge and experience. Catch up with: ■ Regulatory & Technical Services Group (RATS): Have a technical or regulatory question? Bring it along and talk it through with members of the CA’s specialist team. ■ Specialist Cruising Days: Planning where to cruise next? Meet experienced members from the CA’s Motorboat, Mediterranean, Channel, European Inland Waterways (EIWS) and Motorboat Sections and benefit from practical
CRUISING INFORMATION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Pick up your copy of the 2027 Cruising Almanac (read more on page 14), priced at £30 for members and £40 for non-members. Use the QR code below. You can also see the CA’s awardwinning CAptain’s Mate in action. With more than 20,000 reports covering over 9,000 locations worldwide, discover how this powerful app can help with passage planning, destination research and cruising preparation. Come and see for yourself why it has become such a useful companion for cruisers.
The Cruising Association’s Regulatory & Technical Services Group (RATS) has been working with the Inland Waterways Association (IWA) Sustainable Boating Group to produce a guidance document for the installation of LiFePO4 (LFP) service batteries. It explains the complexities surrounding LFP installation and provides a useful checklist for people wishing to have LFP batteries installed in their boats. They reiterate that Lithium installations are complicated and no-one should consider Lithium batteries as a ‘drop-in’ replacement for lead-acid type batteries. Installation requires careful planning, whole system design and likely compatible upgrades. The guidance document is available from this link/ QR code: www.theca.org.uk/installing-lithium-batteries
Get your complimentary digital copy of An Introduction to the European Inland Waterways on 22 September ■ Cruising Information Development Group (CIDG): Meet the volunteers behind the Cruising Almanac, CAptain’s Mate and the CA’s extensive cruising resources, and discover how to get more from them when researching destinations and planning your cruising. ■ Crewing Service: Looking for crew or looking to crew? Meet the team which connects skippers and crew for opportunities ranging from local sailing to extended offshore passages.
PRIZES
There will be plenty of chances to win throughout the show. Our headline prize, open to everyone who visits the stand and enters, is a Wescom sMRT SHIELD+ Personal Locator Beacon. And if you decide to join the CA at the show, you will automatically be entered into exclusive new-member prize draws in partnership with Andark.
JOIN THE CA AT THE BOAT SHOW The value of CA membership lies in having cruising knowledge, practical support and an experienced community behind you – wherever your cruising takes you. At the show, you can take advantage of a special show offer giving you 20 per cent off your first year’s Full Membership when paying by Direct Debit. The offer applies to individual membership or two members living at the same address.
@cruisingassociation
Come and say hello on Stand H244. Whatever stage of your cruising journey you are at, there is something to discover.
Disclaimer: Any advice has been prepared voluntarily by the Cruising Association, its members and others and they and it have tried to ensure that the contents are accurate. However, the Cruising Association, its employees, contributors and relevant members shall not be liable for any loss, damage or inconvenience of any kind howsoever arising in connection with the use of and/or reliance on such advice, save to the extent required by applicable law.
Follow the Cruising Association
cdfi @cruising_assoc
@cruisingassociation @the-cruising-association
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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OFF WATCH SUDOKU
Across
Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.
EASY
4 8
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1 Make a forceful request (6) 5 Quietened, sedated (6) 8 More spacious and well ventilated (6)
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3 Zodiacal constellation (5)
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4 Repair a worn hole, especially in a sock (4)
13 14
5 Festival marked by merrymaking and processions (8)
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6 Theft (7)
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7 Obligation (4)
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16 Spirally threaded cylindrical rod (5)
12 Armistice, truce (9) 23
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19 Imitate (3)
13 Sea bordering Italy (8)
21 Miserable (6)
14 Distinguished (7)
22 European country (6)
17 Makes reference to (5)
23 Putrefied (6)
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18 Prevents from speaking out (4) 20 Island associated with Napoleon (4)
1
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.
7 5 9
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CODEWORD
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ANSWERS ON PAGE 62
A B C D E F G H I J K L M
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N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
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W O R DW H 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): _________________________________________________________
R F
E D
O
T H
A G
E L
2 4 3
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2 6 8
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24 Gangways (6)
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15 Scottish royal castle (8)
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11 Pursue (5)
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6 9 2
10 Convent sister (3)
2 French cabaret singer (1915–63) (5,4)
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13 High-tech (8)
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Solve the puzzle, then rearrange the letters in the shaded squares to spell out a type of water vessel. Down
9 Most uncommon (6)
1
CROSSWORD
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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THE CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS More than a berth: how Boatfolk marinas are becoming destinations in their own right. explore. New berthing options are evolving to support that trend, with seasonal cruising passes to allow owners to spend time visiting different marinas throughout the summer while still enjoying the security of a home berth.
Image: Jenna Foxton
“boaters are looking for marinas that can be part of the journey as much as the start and finish point” COMMUNITIES ARE KEY
To adapt to the changing desires of boaters, Boatfolk marinas around the country have introduced regular social events designed to bring berth holders together. Its activities range from coffee mornings and seasonal parties to RNLI water safety days, fishing competitions, organised cruise in company sessions and Boatfolk big weekend floating festivals. These events help to transform what could be an isolated pastime into a shared experience, giving both new and experienced boaters opportunities to build confidence, meet like-minded people and discover new cruising grounds as a connected community.
FLEXIBILITY AND CONVENIENCE
Rather than remaining tied to one location for an entire season, many boaters now want the freedom to
THE DESTINATION IS THE ATTRACTION
Marinas are increasingly positioning themselves as individual destinations and gateways to some of Britain’s most attractive destinations, recognising that many boating trips are as much about exploring ashore as they are about the journey itself. Penarth Marina, purpose built on the site of a disused coal dock, has become an attractive destination for short breaks, combining easy access to Cardiff with
AS BOATING EVOLVES, MARINAS ARE EVOLVING
That evolution is helping to strengthen marina communities. Long-serving staff, familiar faces and local knowledge continue to play an important role alongside new investment and modern
facilities. Whether it is welcoming returning visitors, organising community events or helping first-time boat owners settle in, people remain at the heart of the marina experience. Security, facilities and engineering expertise will always remain fundamental, but they are no longer the only measures of a great marina. Increasingly, the best marinas are those that encourage owners to spend more time on the water, explore new destinations and enjoy everything the surrounding area has to offer. For today’s boaters, the berth is becoming just the beginning of the adventure. For marina operators, it is an opportunity to showcase adaptability to the changing desires of berth holders and destination visitors. www.boatfolk.co.uk Image: Jenna Foxton
F
or decades, choosing a marina was largely a practical decision. Boaters looked for secure berthing, good facilities and easy access to the water. Increasingly, however, today’s marina is expected to offer far more than somewhere to moor a boat. Across the UK, marinas are evolving into lifestyle destinations, responding to changing expectations from a new generation of boat owners who are looking to make more of their time afloat. Accessibility to flexible berthing, organised cruising, waterside hospitality and year-round events are all on the hit list of desires for the modern boater. The shift reflects wider changes in leisure. As staycations continue to influence travel habits and people place greater value on experiences, boaters are looking for marinas that can be part of the journey as much as the start and finish point.
For others, convenience is just as valuable as flexibility. Evolving premium berthing packages are starting to remove much of the maintenance burden that traditionally comes with boat ownership. At Conwy Marina, for example, an annual package for smaller boats under 20ft combines lifting, hardstanding, polishing, antifouling and towing into a single contract, allowing owners to spend less time organising maintenance and more time enjoying the water.
floating hotel rooms, waterside dining and even a floating sauna overlooking the marina. Local facilities, including Goose on the Loose restaurant, and regular marina events attract both boaters and nonboaters alike. Elsewhere, Portishead Marina offers easy access to both Bristol and a vibrant waterfront community with an active events calendar, making it an ideal destination for families as well as cruising crews. Further north, Conwy Marina blends one of Britain’s richest maritime histories with spectacular scenery. Visitors can spend the morning exploring the medieval castle before heading into Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, while the marina itself continues to invest in premium facilities, including its Boatshed undercover winter storage and maintenance facility. Scotland’s Rhu Marina attracts a different audience altogether. Combining dramatic west coast cruising with an established racing scene and easy access to some of the country’s finest outdoor adventures, it is an accomplished boater’s dream location. Meanwhile, Royal Quays offers a base for exploring the North East coastline, nearby beaches and the city of Newcastle. What connects each destination is a growing understanding that today’s water loving community is looking for a complete experience.
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25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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BRIGHTON MARINA MARINA FOCUS
This month we are in East Sussex at the popular Brighton Marina.
B
righton Marina is set against a backdrop of white cliffs just half a mile east of the historic city of Brighton in East Sussex. The UK’s largest marina, with more
than 1,300 berths and a full-service boatyard, it offers open sea access and is the perfect starting point for a trip to France. It is set in a bustling cosmopolitan area, framed by restaurants, waterside
apartments and a Malmaison hotel. The marina boasts of an array of entertainment options available on and off the water, with a cinema, bowling and golf complexes and a David Lloyd gym.
OUT AND ABOUT
with well-known high-street brands. You wil find a bursting entertainment scene, with venues including the Brighton Dome, Brighton Centre and Brighton Music Hall.
Across the summer the city’s beachfront comes alive with wellknown musicians and festivals which can be enjoyed from the water. This year artists included Fatboy Slim, Madness and Maccabees. Boaters can enjoy exploring the surrounding waters, before anchoring between the marina and the Palace Pier with the music on the beach providing the perfect soundtrack to watch the setting sun. Back on land at the marina you can find the Brighton Marina Yacht Club restaurant, The Clubhouse, which offers light bites and hearty meals, and on a Sunday the traditional roast dinner complete with sticky toffee pudding. Visiting marina boats get a 10 per cent discount on production of their Premier Marinas visitor sheet.
ACCESS
before heading towards the marina’s breakwaters. It is also recommended to check the local notice to mariners when planning your journey.
Brighton is an incredible blend of cosmopolitan city and coastal charm, with plenty of independent restaurants and unique shops mixed
Brighton Marina is well connected and conveniently located, with direct train routes to London taking less than hour, and Gatwick airport just 30 miles away. By sea it is easy to find; the entrance lies between the marina’s east and west breakwater arms - buoyed by red and green markers. At night, the breakwater lights are visible up to six miles away. Staff are available 24/7 to assist and welcome visitors into the marina, but do allow plenty of time to radio on VHF 80 for instructions
FURTHER INFORMATION Manager – Max Sinclair Brighton Marina West Jetty, Brighton East Sussex BN2 5UP 01273 819919 brighton@premiermarinas.com www.premiermarinas.com
CRUISING
Brighton Marina is a great starting point for exploring the South Coast or a trip across the Channel to the continent, with the yacht club regularly organising cruises across to Dieppe. To the east, you can visit Eastbourne or enjoy the quieter anchorages of Rottingdean and Saltdean. Out of the marina you will
find ample opportunity for catching different varieties of fish all year: cod and squid in the winter season, plaice in the spring and seabass in the summer. Close to the marina you can also find wreck, reef and mixed ground fishing, making it ideal for keen sea anglers. If you join the marina as an annual berthing customer, you will have access to the whole Premier Marinas group and can easily use your visitor nights to head around to the West Sussex coastline and stay at Chichester Marina before heading into the Solent.
BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA
Boating and Waterfront Sailing, who can provide on the water training. If you are looking for more adventurous pursuits take a visit to Hatt Adventures, Newhaven Scuba Centre and Neilson Holidays. For a comprehensive list of all the business at the marina visit www.premiermarinas.com/ onsite-businesses
FACILITIES & BERTHING
services. Road access is across the lock bridge, which has a 60-tonne capacity and a width of 4.85m. The boatyard’s high-quality equipment includes a 60-tonne boat hoist and a jib crane for mast and engine lifts. There is a remote boat mover and boat parker which can haul up to 25 tonnes and a 2.5-tonne forklift. Brighton’s yard security is also second to none. ■ Parking ■ Wi-Fi ■ Personal bathrooms ■ Full-service boatyard ■ Electricity ■ 24hr security ■ Fuel pontoon ■ Restaurants ■ Pump-out ■ Recycling
There is a great selection of on-site trades ready to help with all aspects of boat care and maintenance: Nicky’s Chandlery, Sail loft and Canvasworks, Shipwright Services, Twisted Marina, Suire Marine, DJ Electrics, Forrest and Stevens Marine. You can also find Brighton
The professional and friendly team welcomes boats of all sizes, including smaller craft; a 6m boat can berth year-round at Brighton Marina from just £265 per month. Larger boats are also welcome. The marina has a dedicated visitors’ area, making it a great rest point on longer journeys. With its high-quality facilities, yacht club, fuel pontoon, quality boatyard and a well-stocked chandlery, boaters have everything they need close at hand. The boatyard at Brighton sits at the far north-eastern corner of the site, in the inner part of the marina, accessed by lock gates. The yard is conveniently close to the marine trades centre, which houses a comprehensive selection of marine
PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION
“I have spent the last two winters at Brighton Marina, keeping my boat safe from winter storms, with the protective sea wall. Staff are always very friendly and helpful and the facilities are excellent. I am already looking forward to being back again this winter.” Gordon Matthewman
25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
PENTON HOOK MARINA T
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MARINA FOCUS
Situated on the picturesque non-tidal River Thames, Penton Hook Marina is Britain’s largest inland marina.
he marina offers a peaceful waterside setting within easy reach of London. Originally developed from former gravel and sand pits, planning permission for the marina was granted in 1959, with the first berth holder arriving in April 1960. The marina later became the founding site of the MDL Marinas Group in 1973 and has continued to evolve into one of the UK’s premier inland boating destinations.
Set within 80 acres of sheltered water, Penton Hook Marina enjoys a prime location close to the historic site of Runnymede, where King John sealed the Magna Carta, and is also within easy reach of attractions including Thorpe Park and Windsor. Continuing its long history of investment, the marina has introduced a number of enhancements for the 2026 season, including 18 new narrowboat moorings, newly refurbished facilities, upgraded parking and refreshed landscaping across the marina. marina office in advance of arrival is recommended, particularly for larger vessels or first-time visitors.
CRUISING
ACCESS
By Land: Penton Hook Marina is located just off the A320 between Chertsey and Staines-upon-Thames, offering excellent road connections via Junction 11 of the M25 and the nearby M3 motorway. From the M25, leave at Junction 11 and follow signs for Chertsey and Thorpe Park via the A320. Continue towards Staines, passing Thorpe Park, before following local signs to Penton Hook Marina. The nearest railway stations are Chertsey and Staines, both offering regular services to London Waterloo. Local taxi services are readily available from both stations.
By Sea (River Access): Access is via the non-tidal River Thames between Penton Hook Lock and Bell Weir Lock. The approach is straightforward in normal river conditions, although visiting skippers should remain aware that river conditions can change rapidly after heavy rainfall, when strong stream warnings may be issued by the Environment Agency and strong flows may affect manoeuvrability. Boaters should check the latest Environment Agency River status information before travelling and proceed with caution when navigating near locks and moored vessels. Contacting the
Penton Hook Marina provides an excellent base for exploring some of the Thames’ most attractive cruising grounds. For day cruises, nearby destinations include Runnymede, Windsor and Hampton Court Palace. Weekend cruises upstream can take visitors through Maidenhead and Henley-on-Thames, renowned for its famous Royal Regatta and riverside charm. Longer cruises can extend as far as Oxford, passing picturesque villages, historic towns and numerous riverside pubs. Downstream, experienced skippers can transit through Teddington Lock into the tidal Thames and cruise towards central London.
FACILITIES & BERTHING
Penton Hook Marina offers 575 berths and can accommodate vessels up to 30m in length, making it suitable for a wide range of craft including motor cruisers, narrowboats and Dutch barges. Purpose-built pontoons cater specifically for narrowboats and larger inland vessels, with dedicated moorings for boats requiring additional beam or length. Lifting and maintenance facilities are available on-site through specialist marine contractors, including craning services for vessels up to 18 tonnes. Hardstanding is also available for maintenance and boat care. The marina welcomes both longterm berth holders and visiting boats. For those looking to spend more time afloat, Penton Hook Marina also offers High Leisure Moorings, allowing you to stay aboard your boat for up to five nights out of every seven while enjoying the marina’s excellent facilities. Berth holders and visitors can also benefit from MDL’s Otium Rewards
BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA
OUT AND ABOUT
Penton Hook Marina is perfectly placed for exploring some of the Thames Valley’s best-loved attractions. Just a short distance away is Runnymede, where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215. Within walking distance, Thorpe Park Resort offers a fun-filled day out for families and thrill seekers. Historic Windsor, with Windsor Castle and its bustling town centre, is easily
PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
“This year I took my boat from the Kennet and Avon canal back to the Thames after a three year absence. What a joy it is to be back! What a particular joy it is to be back at Penton Hook. Everything is here for all your boat servicing, repairing, equipping, cleaning, pampering etc. The docks are new and well maintained (give or take the odd goose!). The staff are brilliant and deserve every accolade for looking after the 500 plus boats and their owners at the marina. The whole site is very well run (special mention to whoever maintains the loos and showers - they are always spotless). The location is particularly good for boating as a run up to Windsor or down to Shepperton offers plenty of variety for a day out. Choose Penton Hook Marina with confidence, IMHO it is one of the best marinas on the Thames.” MF Kate
reached by boat or car. Scenic riverside walks and cycle routes along the Thames Path provide excellent opportunities to explore the local countryside. Within walking distance or a short drive of Penton Hook Marina is a great selection of traditional pubs, cafés and restaurants in nearby Chertsey and Staines-upon-Thames. Supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose, can be found nearby for everyday provisions.
“I have been with MDL since 2011, although I was based at MDL Chatham. I recently bought a new boat and decided to move to MDL Penton Hook after I spent a month there in 2019 as part of the sister berthing benefits offered to berth holders. Penton Hook is a beautiful marina tucked in away from the main river, with lovely surroundings and is very clean and well maintained. It has showers and toilet facilities and a superb team. Penton Hook Marina has a yard with a crane for your maintenance needs or storage ashore, and the fellas there are super helpful and knowledgeable. It is a secure place to leave your car parked whilst enjoying a cruise on the boat or even leaving for a longer weekend. There are plenty of places to go by boat as well given its location. I am happy with my decision to move there.” Anibal D
n Connections Courier Services: same-day and scheduled courier and delivery services for businesses and private clients. n CP Sound: marine audio and entertainment specialists, supplying and installing bespoke sound, navigation and onboard electronic systems. n GRPro Clean: professional boat valeting, cleaning, polishing and detailing services for vessels on the River Thames. n Le Boat: offers self-drive boating holidays on the River Thames with a fleet of fully equipped canal and river cruisers. n Penton Craning: provides boat lifting, launching, towing, pressure washing, antifouling, valeting and winterisation services for vessels up to 18 tonnes.
programme, earning points on MDL purchases that can be redeemed across a wide range of boating products, services and experiences. A range of specialist marine businesses are based at the marina, offering everything from boat sales and engineering to maintenance, lifting, upholstery and marine electronics, ensuring expert support is always close at hand. Facilities and services include: n Four modern amenity buildings n Individual shower and toilet facilities n Disabled access facilities n 24-hour access and security n WiFi throughout the marina n Electricity and water to berths n Fuel berth supplying diesel and petrol n Pump-out station n Chemical toilet disposal n Launderette n Electric vehicle charging points n Extensive car parking n Slipway facilities n Chandlery services nearby
n Pro-Rig Marine: Mercury main dealer specialising in marine engine sales, servicing, repairs, repowers, boat maintenance and performance upgrades for a wide range of craft. n TBS Boats Penton Hook: award-winning boat brokerage specialising in new and used motorboats and yachts, with a dedicated sales pontoon and expert brokerage services. n The Trim Shop: family-run marine trimmers specialising in bespoke boat hoods, covers, upholstery, cockpit cushions, carpets, curtains and hood repairs. n Waterline Marine Services: provides boat maintenance and refurbishment services including antifouling, coatings removal, painting, varnishing and general boat care.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Penton Hook Marina, Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8PY Marina Manager: Benedict Moran T: 01932 568681 E: pentonhook@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.pentonhookmarina.co.uk Sat Nav: KT16 8PY
For berth enquiries, visitor bookings and current navigation information, contact the marina office directly.
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MARINA GUIDE
Your guide to finding marinas nationwide
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
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
PARKSTONE BAY MARINA Manager: Henry Cobley Turks Lane, Poole, Dorset, BH14 8EW T: 01202 747 857 E: info@parkstonebay.com W: www.parkstonebay.com
SOUTH WEST
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
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
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
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
MAYFLOWER MARINA Manager: Charles Bush Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4LS T: 01752 556633 E: info@mayflowermarina.co.uk W: www.mayflowermarina.co.uk
WATCHET MARINA Manager: Matt Driscoll Harbour Office, Watchet, TA23 0AQ T: 01984 322230 E: watchetmarina@westernmarinas.co.uk W: www.westernmarinas.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
PREMIER WEYMOUTH MARINA Manager: Paul Swain Commercial Road, Weymouth Dorset, DT4 8NA T: 01305 767576 E: weymouth@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.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
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
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
PREMIER PORTLAND MARINA Manager: Paul Swain Osprey Quay, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1DX T: 01305 866190 E: portland@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com LAKE YARD MARINA Manager/contact - Jenny Burrows Lake Drive, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset, BH15 4DT T: 01202 674531 E: office@lakeyard.com W: www.lakeyard.com
MARINA ADDS BERTHS MDL Marinas announced the creation of 18 new berths for barges and narrowboats at Penton Hook Marina, increasing capacity for boat owners on one of the River Thames’ most sought-after stretches. The marina’s X Pontoon is being reconfigured with the installation of nine new 14m angled pontoons, creating 18 berths suitable for barges and narrowboats up to 20m. Alongside the new berths, MDL is carrying out a full refurbishment of its shower and washroom facilities. Benedict Moran, Marina Manager at Penton Hook Marina, said: “These projects are all about investing in the long-term future of Penton Hook and ensuring we continue to meet the expectations of today’s boat owners. “At the same time, we are investing in the facilities our berth holders and visiting boaters use every day. The improvements will make a real difference to the overall experience,
creating more modern, comfortable facilities for everyone. “We want Penton Hook to be a marina that people genuinely enjoy spending time in, and these improvements are another step towards that.” Turn to page 57 to read this month’s Marina Focus about Penton Hook Marina.
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
MDL OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA Manager: Lauren McCann Marina Office, 2 Channel Way, Southampton, Hampshire, SO14 3TG T: 023 8022 9385 E: oceanvillage@mdlmarinas.co.u W: www.oceanvillagemarina.co.uk
MDL MERCURY YACHT HARBOUR Manager: Debbie Burns Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4HQ T: 023 8045 5994 E: mercury@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk
LYMINGTON YACHT HAVEN Manager: Rupert Wagstaff Kings Saltern Road, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 3QD T: 01590 677071 E: lymington@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com
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
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
BUCKLER’S HARD YACHT HARBOUR Harbour Master: Wendy Stowe Harbour Master’s Office, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour, Hampshire, SO42 7XB T: 01590 616200 E: harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk W: www.beaulieuriver.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
HAMBLE YACHT SERVICES Port Hamble, Hamble,Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4NN T: 02380 201501 E: info@hysgroup.co.uk W: www.hambleyachtservices.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
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
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 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
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 E: reception@salterns.co.uk W: www.salterns.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
TOWN QUAY MARINA Associated British Ports, Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ T: 023 8023 4397 E: info@townquay.com W: www.townquay.com
PREMIER MARINAS UNIVERSAL Manager: Martin Bowman Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 7ZN T: 01489574272 E: universal@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com PREMIER HASLAR MARINA Manager: Ben Lippiett Haslar Road, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1NU T: 023 9260 1201 F: 023 9260 2201 E: haslar@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com 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
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WATCHET CELEBRATES 25 YEARS
COWES YACHT HAVEN Cowes Yacht Haven has retained its 5 Gold Anchor accreditation following its latest inspection by The Yacht Harbour Association. TYHA Executive, Hayley Cloke said: “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication, professionalism and hard work of the entire marina team, who consistently strive to deliver exceptional facilities and customer service.” The assessment reflects the marina’s continued commitment to high standards across customer service, facilities, operations and the overall visitor experience. Feedback from customers and assessors improved compared with the previous inspection,
contributing to an overall score that has led to Cowes Yacht Haven being invited to apply for Gold Anchor Platinum status. Gold Anchor Platinum invitations are awarded to a small number of exceptional marinas, with recognition to date largely associated with leading superyacht marinas overseas. Cowes Yacht Haven is one of only two UK marinas to have received such an invitation. Cowes Yacht Haven Managing Director, Daniel Jehan said: “This achievement is testament to the consistent hard work of our staff and contractors, as well as the customers who help make Cowes Yacht Haven such a great place to work and visit.”
AROUND THE MARINAS Yacht Havens Group has appointed Rupert Wagstaff to its Board of Directors and promoted him to the newly created role of Operations Director, recognising more than 20 years of contribution to the business and the marina industry. MDL Marinas announced that one of the South Coast’s most iconic waterfront destinations, The Hut on the Isle of Wight, has joined its growing Otium Rewards programme, which means Otium members can spend their Otium Rewards points at the beachside restaurant. See page 19. The scientific sailing vessel Bonita, operated by Expédition MED, called at Marina Port de Mallorca to give berth holders and visitors an insight into the organisation’s research into plastic pollution in the Mediterranean. D-Marin has launched Marin-Up, an 18-month International Graduate Programme designed to attract, develop and accelerate the careers of future leaders in the marina industry using a combination of practical experience, international mobility and structured development. Mallorca’s Marina Port Andratx and Puerto Andratx Sailing Club welcomed sea school students aged eight to 12 for an environmental education and awareness event highlighting the impact of plastic waste on the marine environment.
MarineMax, a US-based marina operator, superyacht services company and boat and yacht retailer, has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Safe Harbor Marinas. D-Marin has announced international recognition for its Marsa Al Arab Marina in Dubai by securing three of the industry’s most prestigious accreditations: TYHA’s 5 Gold Anchor, Clean Marina and Superyacht Ready distinctions. The redevelopment of Marina Port Valencia continues and includes cutting-edge measures designed to improve the marina’s integration with the marine environment. A recent milestone was the installation of new pontoon systems using ecofriendly mooring blocks designed to minimise environmental impact and also encourage the colonisation of marine species. Ocean Marina Jomtien, in Thailand, has announced a further 30m extension to its existing 100m superyacht berth, which will increase its total length to 130m. D-Marin is bringing its marinas to life this summer; from regattas and outdoor cinema nights to cultural festivals, wellness sessions and community celebrations, the programme is designed to give guests even more ways to enjoy their time both on and off the water.
The event included welcome drinks, a hog roast, a Best Dressed Boat competition and the marina’s first boat jumble, bringing together people who have played a part in the marina’s story over the past quarter of a century. The celebrations provided an opportunity to not only reflect on Watchet Marina’s history, but also on the significant progress made since Western Marinas acquired the site in September 2024. A sustained programme of investment has focused on restoring confidence, improving reliability and creating a marina fit for the future. Johara Sykes-Dale, Managing Director of Western Marinas, said: “Celebrating Watchet Marina’s
25th anniversary feels particularly special because it has given us the opportunity to reflect on just how much progress has been made since we took over. When we acquired the marina, our priority was to get the fundamentals right. “We have invested heavily in the infrastructure, improved reliability and focused on creating a marina that berth holders can have confidence in, while laying the foundations for the future. “There is still more to do, but seeing so many berth holders, visitors and members of the local community come together to celebrate this milestone was a wonderful reminder of how much this marina means to people.”
AQUAVISTA ROYAL CLARENCE WATERSIDE & MARINA Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1AX T: 023 9252 3523 E: royalclarence@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com
COWES HARBOUR SHEPARDS MARINA Manager: Jock Rafferty Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT T: 01983 297821 E: shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk W: cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk
AQUAVISTA BIRDHAM POOL WATERSIDE & MARINA Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BG T: 01243 512310 E: birdhampool@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com
PREMIER MARINAS PORT SOLENT Manager: Ben Boardman South Lockside, Port Solent, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 4TJ T: 023 9221 0765 F: 023 9232 4241 E: portsolent@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com
ISLAND HARBOUR MARINA Manager: Danie Erasmus Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA T: 01983 539994 E: info@island-harbour.co.uk W:www.island-harbour.co.uk
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
Watchet Marina celebrated its 25th anniversary as berth holders, visitors and the local community came together to mark the milestone and celebrate the marina’s progress under Western Marinas.
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 Office 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 PREMIER EAST COWES MARINA Manager: Mike Townshend Britannia Way, East Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO32 6UB T: 01983 293983 F: 01983 299276 E: eastcowes@premiermarinas.com W: premiermarinas.com
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 Office, 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
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: Max Sinclair West Jetty, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 5UP T: 01273 819919 F: 01273 675082 E: brighton@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com
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
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
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
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
PREMIER MARINAS CHICHESTER Manager: Andrew Collumbell Birdham (Chichester Harbour) West Sussex, PO20 7EJ T: 01243 512731 E: chichester@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com
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
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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 Image: Shutterstock/ ishtar.ro
SUFFOLK MDL WOOLVERSTONE MARINA Manager: Shane Cheshire Woolverstone, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 1AS T: 01473 780206 E: woolverstone@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.woolverstonemarina.co.uk LOWESTOFT BEACON MARINA Manager: Lucy Edmonds School Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 9NB T: 01502 580300 E: lowestoftbeacon@abports.co.uk W: www.beaconmarinas.co.uk FOX’S MARINA & BOATYARD Marina Manager: Lee Gilson Fox’s Marina, Ipswich Suffolk 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
SURREY MDL PENTON HOOK MARINA Manager: Benedict Moran Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 8PY T: 01932 568681 E: pentonhook@mdlmarinas.co.uk 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 W: www.aquavista.com Image: Shutterstock/ Avigator Fortuner
WALES
ABERYSTWYTH MARINA Manager: Adam Knowles Y Lanfa Aberystwyth, Trefechan SY23 1AS T: 01970 611422 E: aberystwythmarina@westernmarinas.co.uk W: www.westernmarinas.co.uk CARDIFF MARINA Manager: Andy Coles OBE Watkiss Way Cardiff CF11 0SY T: 02920 396078 E: cardiffmarina@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 PENARTH MARINA Manager: Stuart Jones Penarth Vale of Glamorgan F64 1TQ T: 02920 705021 E: penarth@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk
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 Office, 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
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: Keeran Stephenson 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 W: www.aquavista.com
LIVERPOOL 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
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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
ITALY
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 E: enquiries@santcarlesmarina.com W: www.santcarlesmarina.com
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
THE NETHERLANDS JACHTHAVEN BIESBOSCH Manager: Maarten Voskuil Nieuwe Jachthaven 54924 BA, Drimmelen, NL T: +31 (0)162 682249 E: info@jachthavenbiesbosch.nl W: www.jachthavenbiesbosch.nl
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25 YEARS OF ALL AT SEA SEPTEMBER 2026
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Into the Drink
with Susannah Hart
IT’S GUINNESS TIME
SOCIAL HUB
But times change. The pace of life feels faster these days – both on and off the water – and I wonder whether showgoers will still take the time to wait for a perfectly poured pint of this rich, creamy brew. Are the days where the bar had rows of glasses sitting there, three-quarters full, settling before that final top-up a thing of the past? There is certainly more competition now. As boat shows have evolved beyond their trade roots into broader water-based lifestyle events, the hospitality element has grown stronger. Waterside restaurants, cocktail bars, artisan food stalls, crisp wines, flavoured gins and an array of craft beers are diluting the iconic presence of the Guinness Bar. This once undisputed social hub now shares the stage. What started as a bit of smart marketing all those decades ago turned into a proper tradition. It is still there. And that says a lot. It might not be the only place people head to anymore, but for many of us, it is still an important part of the show experience. Boat show time will always be Guinness time for me. So, if you are heading down to Mayflower Park this year, there is a fair chance you will find me there – a pint of the black stuff in hand. n
I
This month, our drinks columnist Susannah Hart raises a glass to Guinness – a modern nautical tradition.
t is boat show season and, rather shamefully, when I hear Southampton International Boat Show, I think Guinness Bar. In my mind, rightly or wrongly, the two are completely intertwined – and I doubt I am alone in this. An Irish stout with a renowned inability to travel, Guinness is a slightly surprising match for the boating world. And yet, it has been part of the UK boat show scene since it first appeared at the London Boat Show at Earls Court in the 1960s. What started as a clever promotional idea from the team at Guinness quickly became a firm favourite.
SEE YOU THERE!
Often described as the most popular stand at the show, the Guinness Bar became the go-to meeting point for just about everyone. It was highly visible – everyone knew where it was, so it required no explanation. “See you at the Guinness Bar” became the default plan – whether you were catching up with friends or talking business. From London to Southampton, it wove its way into the social fabric of the show. Deals were done, relationships cemented and, more often than not, a very good time was had by all. It was very much a part of the show experience. And speaking as someone who has worked at more boat shows than I care to remember, that endof-day pint was well-deserved. After hours on your feet, a quick trip to the bar was a treat and a time to reflect on the day. Somehow, my aching back and sore feet just seemed to disappear with a Guinness in hand.
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Crossword D E M A N D C A L M E D D R A A A U R A R E S T A I R I E R T E N U N C Y I E C C H A S E P A D V A N C E D I E D A Y A B A L M O R A L S F I I S C R E W N A P E I F G A B J E C T L A T V I A G N I B E R S E P T I C A I S L E S
Answer: DUGOUT
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Sudoku: Easy
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ANSWERS TO PUZZLES
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“What started as a bit of smart marketing all those decades ago turned into a proper tradition”
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Sudoku: Tough
Codeword
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Wordwheel: GODFATHER
All puzzles © Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)
E M B E R O B S T I N A T E F L E N U N A V O M I T F L A S H B U L B R E S S I A E U J E T T I S O N L E E W A Y R C Q E C G E L V E S H A U L L A Z E E E I E S R X N I C O N T R A M P T A R T B B K T E U K E N N E L T E E N A G E R N N N S P O S H P E P P E R O N I I N A P T A O E N S O E F L U M M O X E D S K E I N
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SWINGING MOORINGS
VISITOR MARINA
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.
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.
VHF Channel 80 call sign “Poole Quay Boat Haven”