Sound the fog horn and watch out for cheeky ones on the water- it’s the London Boat Show! Taking place in the South hall of ExCeL Exhibition Center in early January, there’s tons to see and experience. Those who visit will explore the Show inside and out, hearing and learning from expert voices while viewing all the boats and equipment you could ever want to see in one place- powerboats, sailboats and rigid-hulled inflatable boats (including historic and military) out on the docks.
Historically speaking, sailing in Britain and the UK was very much a sport that was largely enjoyed by the rich. Post-World War 2, however, cheaper boats such as dinghies became both available and affordable. Soon, sailing became something even the middle class could enjoy, leading to popular demand for a boat show that would put boats of all sizes in one place. The London Boat Show was made to fill this role, first blowing people out of the water at the Olympia exhibition center in 1954. Its popularity lead to it relocating to the Earls Court Exhibition Centre just a few years later in 1957. While at Earls Court, a crowd favorite was always the use of the venue’s large pool area to host floating boats for inspection by the attendees.
After years as a loyal habitant of Earls Court, the London Boat Show moved to ExCeL in 2004. It was a natural necessity due to the show’s explosive growth over the years, as the old location could no longer had enough space to host the extensive cast of boats and equipment choices that loyal attendees clamored for. Earls Court didn’t quite have the room the larger boats that visitors wanted to see, either. Smaller watercraft were introduced after the move, too, including kayaks, dinghies, canoes, and paddleboards. The increased popularity in-water activities such as wakeboarding and water skiing led to the inclusion of a watersports action pool- allowing guests to preview their future action-packed water endeavors indoors.
Among the many sights that you can expect to see at the show, keep an eye out for the Adventurous Cruising Zone. It puts a hard focus on several different boat types plus the provisions & equipment your beloved boat may need, with certified experts available to share their extensive mastery of subjects from navigation to boat cruising and proper pilotage. The Watersports Pool will also be on display, packed with various activities such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding and challenging water walking balls. This Watersports Pool is the perfect place to learn or improve your personal watersports ability while getting a feel for new & improved equipment that can change your entire sporting experience.
If you love the water and the nautical journeys it leads to, the London Boat Show is one of the most unique boat show experiences you’ll find both in Europe and the world. Whether it’s boats, equipment, technology, or hands-on training there is truly something for anyone and everyone at the London Boat Show.
January 9-18, 2014
Opening Times:
Sat-Sun 10:00-19:00
Mon-Weds 10:00-18:00
Thurs 10:00-21:00
Fri 10:00-18:00
Sat 10:00-19:00
Sun 12th 10:00-18:00
