Even bigger and better this year
17/05/2017
The popularity of the Poole Harbour Boat Show, in association with Sunseeker, means that this year’s event will be even bigger and better. The Show has outgrown Poole Quay Boat Haven and Town Quay. So, in order to provide an even wider choice of exhibits and displays, an additional display area will be located on Ballast Quay.
This new area is directly opposite Town Quay and a free passenger boat service, provided by Greenslade, will run between the quays – giving quick and easy access for visitors.
The Show, which is organised by Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), is now in its third year and has proved to be one of the town’s most successful events. Jim Stewart, Chief Executive of PHC explains: “Last year more than a hundred exhibitors lined the Town Quay and filled Poole Quay Boat Haven. This year we have even more exhibitors, plus some exciting new displays, and are expecting to see more than 20,000 visitors. The Show has been a great success since it was launched three years ago, and I’m delighted that it is proving increasingly popular each year.”
Admission is free and the whole area will be transformed into a showcase for sail and motorboats of all sizes, RIBs, chandlery products, clothing and water-sports accessories. On Friday night, there’s a stunning firework display.
The new Ballast Quay area will be home to a fascinating ‘navy village’. Full details were not available at the time of going to press, but it is hoped there will be considerable Naval Service presence in the shape of a minor war vessel, patrol craft, Royal Marine display and the Royal Marine band. In addition, the Border Force will bringing along their coastal patrol vessel ‘CPV Nimrod’. Visitors will also get a chance to see the Border Force dogs in operation.
Sunseeker – the show’s main sponsor
The Poole Harbour Boat Show is very proud to have Sunseeker as its main sponsor. Through its sponsorship, the luxury boat builder will be providing the ‘Sunseeker Sessions’ live music stage. This is a central feature of the event and showcases musical talent from across the region.
Commenting on their sponsorship, Bryan Jones, marketing manager for Sunseeker said: “Being Poole-based we are delighted to be part of this exciting show and look forward to delivering an incredible selection of live music across the three days. Previous acts have been remarkable and I would encourage all visitors to come and enjoy some great music, whilst enjoying everything the boat show has to offer.”
Sunseeker will also have a major presence in the Boat Haven, where two of their impressive motor yachts will be on display. This includes the new 95 Yacht which is the marina’s largest-ever exhibit. So, if you’ve always wanted to have a look around one of these superb boats – this is your chance!
Quay-side and on-water activity
Tall ships are undoubtedly at the other end of the sea-going scale, but they also create a huge amount of interest. Four tall ships – including the Nao Victoria from Spain – will be moored alongside Town Quay. They will be open to the public, giving everyone a chance to look around these beautiful ships.
Town Quay will also be the base for another prestigious, local company – Marshall Bournemouth BMW – who will have a prominent display, showcasing the latest models of the BMW 7 Series Saloon and the innovative i8.
The on-water demonstrations are always a popular attraction and, for the first time, there will be an exhilarating display of ‘flyboarding’, provided by Aquatic Jetpack. Attached to a jet ski, the flyboard can send the rider up to ten metres in the air, whilst doing various spins and tricks. Other on-water activities include sailing taster sessions, yacht racing, junior RIB slalom racing and RNLI demonstrations.
If you want to get out on the water, make your way to the Get Lost Sailing stand in the Boat Haven. As a special boat show promotion, they will offer 20% off tickets for trips running during the show and the subsequent half term week.
Summing up the show, Jim Stewart commented: “With such a wide range of exhibits, displays and attractions we can truly say that there is something for everyone at this year’s Show. Whether you are young or old, an experienced sailor or complete novice – or even someone who likes to keep their feet firmly on the ground – we are confident that you will thoroughly enjoy your visit.”
Not to be missed!
- The Sunseeker Sessions stage – live music from 12 different acts
- Royal Navy ‘village’ on Ballast Quay (use the free passenger boat service to get there)
- Daily flyboard demonstrations
- Four tall ships – Pelican, Queen Galadriel, Royalist and Nao Victoria
- Royal Marines ‘Beating the Retreat’
- Friday night fireworks
Full details and times: pooleharbourboatshow.co.uk
