More than 30,000 people visited this year’s Poole Harbour Boat Show, in association with Sunseeker, which is a 30% increase on last year.
Organised by Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), the show included more than 200 exhibitors which transformed Poole Town Quay and Poole Quay Boat Haven into a free showcase for sail and motorboats of all sizes, RIB’s, chandlery products, clothing and water-sports activities.
In addition, there were four tall ships to look around, plus an impressive range of on-water displays and demonstrations. And, as always, the Sunseeker Sessions stage featuring live music from local acts proved a huge success.
For the first time ever, there was a significant Royal Navy and Royal Marines presence at the show which gave visitors the chance to look around HMS Hurworth, a mine countermeasures vessel, and to see the Royal Marines displaying a variety of equipment and to hear them perform the world-famous ‘Beating Retreat’.
A survey of exhibitors has shown that 93% considered the show to be excellent to good, and 60% have already confirmed that they will be taking part in next year’s event.
Jim Stewart, Chief Executive of PHC commented: “This was the biggest and most successful boat show we’ve organised and visitor numbers far exceeded our expectations. PHC is committed to supporting local companies and the boat show has a valuable impact on hotels, bars and restaurants in the town as well as the significant cluster of marine-related businesses within the region.
“Most importantly, I’d like to thank all the sponsors who supported us this year. Without their generous support we couldn’t run the show and we are extremely grateful for their help which has made this year’s show such a success.”
Sponsors of the 2017 Poole Harbour Boat Show, which took place between 19-21 May, were:
- Sunseeker Yachts
- Marshall Bournemouth BMW
- Mazars
- Sibbett Gregory
- Bates Wharf Marine Sales
- Elite Signs
- Bournemouth Colour Press
- Greenslade Pleasure Boats
- Conker Spirit