London Boat Show 2015: Day one in pictures

Laura Hodgetts
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The 62nd annual London Boat Show got under way today at ExCeL London.

Running until Sunday 17 January, this year’s event showcases almost 400 boats, both power and sail, all different shapes and sizes.

Nearly 100 of the boats are being shown to the public for the first time, including the Sunseeker 131 Yacht, a tri-deck 40 metre long superyacht costing in excess of £16million. 

Among the many product launches today, was Raymarine’s Quantum Wireless CHIRP Marine Radar, which may interest sailors as it offers the lowest power consumption on the market (17 watts) and weighs just 12.3lbs (5.5kg).

Raymarine’s director of engineering Gordon Pope said it represented the ‘latest and greatest wifi and radar technology’. He added: ‘This is fantastic technology which I think epitomises what the London Boat Show is all about.’

PBO Project Boat Hantu Biru is being showcased on the boardwalk at the east end of ExCeL – stand A220R. The show marks the last chance to step aboard the fully restored Snapdragon 23 before she finds a new home through PBO’s free prize draw.

Show visitor Paul Chambers, of Surrey, admired the restoration work carried out by PBO’s David Pugh and Ben Meakins and the team, saying: ‘I would just love to do something like that. It shows us all that dreams can be achieved, it’s the first time I’ve seen Hantu Biru but I’ve been following the project from the start in the magazine.

‘I was keen to see her in the flesh, she didn’t disappoint – almost better than my expectations, she looks brilliant, like an exceptionally well cared for boat.’

Paul added: ‘I’m currently without a boat so of course I’ve entered the competition to win her.’

Managing director of British Marine Boat Shows, Murray Ellis said: ‘We are delighted to have officially opened the 2016 London Boat Show and have a fantastic line up of events taking place over the next ten days.

‘At the heart of one of the world’s leading capital cities, we are showcasing the rich heritage of British boating and Britain’s leading innovations at this iconic Boat Show.

‘Visitors will be able to re-live the great moments of our time whilst discovering the technologies of the future which will revolutionise the way we get out on the water.’

In addition to the new yachts and powerboats, several historic boats have made an appearance this year including SB Melissa, a refurbished 19th century sailing barge and Massey Shaw, a 1935 vessel that rescued more than 500 troops from the beaches of Dunkirk.

Other show highlights include:

  • 1960’s Revival – transporting visitors back to the swinging 60’s. Features will include a Fairey Huntsman 28, an Amphicar, a Jaguar E-Type, a Riva Junior and a Mirror Dinghy
  • Mediterranean Bay – a purpose-built pool spanning 500sqm overlooked by a Mediterranean-themed village, it is an on the water ‘play area’ for beginners and experienced skippers alike
  • Superyacht UK Young Designer Competition (13-14 January) – university design students will be hand drawing their own concept yachts at the show to be judged by industry experts. The winner will receive a four week internship at Pendennis Shipyard
  • London Boat Show Theatre – featuring some of the world’s most highly acclaimed boating experts talking on topics ranging from technology and innovations, to engine maintenance and around the world expeditions:
    • America’s Cup commentator, Tucker Thompson
    • Volvo Ocean Race winner, Ian Walker
    • Land Rover BAR’s Fitness Coach, Ben Williams
    • Record-breaking female sailor, Dee Caffari MBE

The London Boat Show takes place from 8 -17 January 2016 at ExCeL London. Tickets are available online and on the door, starting from £10, with two children 15 or under going free with each adult.

To purchase tickets, and to find out more, visit: www.londonboatshow.com.