There is something for everyone in the Classic and Dayboat Zone. Powered by Classic Boat Magazine, the zone features a wide range of wooden boats with traditional clinker construction and classic red and white sails. It also includes demonstrations on boatbuilding and rigging, as well as ropework and hands-on activities.

“This ‘show within a show’ is always a major attraction for visitors”, says Classic Boat Magazine Editor, Rob Peake.  “Classic Boat Magazine is delighted to be sponsoring the Classic and Day Boat Zone, a showcase of the year’s most handsome timber craft and a place where all lovers of classics can congregate. Our editorial team will be there over the show to chat to everyone who values the traditional skills that are still being practised so expertly by the zone’s exhibitors.”

Visitors can learn the traditional skills of boat building by watching and observing the staff and students from the International Boat Building Training College.  Staff and students of the International Boat Building Training College will create a classic vessel throughout the show and demonstrate all aspects, from steam-bending wood to carving and routeing.

If you’ve ever fancied making a monkey’s fist, a lanyard or rope fender, or just learning how to tie knots, then look no further than the skilful Sue Pennison of the International Guild of Knot Tyers.  Sue Pennison, of the International Guild of Knot Tyers, will demonstrate knot tying techniques and canvas work. Visitors can create their masterpieces by hand.

Another famous face at the show is Swallows and Amazons’ star Sophie Neville.  In 1973, aged just 12, Sophie played Able Seaman Titty and was the inspiration for many youngsters as she was filmed sailing and rowing the sturdy 14-foot standing lugsail craft “Amazon” in this highly popular classic film.   The Arthur Ransome Society managed to acquire and restore the clinker-built dinghies “Swallow” and “Amazon”, and Sophie will be at the Southampton International Boat Show talking about her experiences as a child film star, the process of raising funds to purchase these classic craft, their restoration, and the opportunities to now sail in these classic boats.

Classic doesn’t always mean ‘old fashioned’ and several companies will be showing how traditional style yachts can be bought up to date with modern propulsion systems.  Nelson Motor Yachts’ Nelson 18 will be highlighted, a 60 year-old design that now features a choice between two superstructures with the option of diesel, electric or hybrid power.  A dedicated team of artisans has built the Nelson 18 with the signature wooden badging. It is complimented with a brand new GRP interior and wood.  Nelson 18 offers a wide cabin and cockpit space, which makes it the ideal boat for river and estuary cruising. There is also plenty of room to enjoy a champagne-themed picnic.  Buyers can also choose an open-launch superstructure that is suitable for use as a safety vessel or workboat.

Woodbridge Boatyard’s new electric propulsion systems will be showcased on an open 18-foot GRP hull.  This company has completely refurbished an old simulated-clinker hull, fitted it with new timber fittings and a flush deck in order to create a stylish electric-powered picnic boat.  The Woodbridge Boatyard, also known as the Debden Drive, after the river where it is situated, offers Vetus 48V motors that range from 4-10kW. It is equipped with a 7″ touchscreen display, built-in WiFi, charts and echo-sounder.

From the tiniest tenders from Micro Boats, nestling prams from Adventure Boats, sailing yachts from Drascombe and Lakeland Wooden Boats, fishing and motorboats from Highlander, fenders from Compass Marine and every sort of watersports equipment from Craig Cahoon, there’s also an array of other stands to wander around showcasing shoes from Quayside and Cabotswood, Lillevilla log cabins, and even expertly sourced wine tastings from Wineomania.

And if all these land-based stands aren’t enough, there are numerous classic yachts to be found nestled amongst the pontoons of the show marina, and there is even the chance to enjoy an early evening sail onboard the classic 47m Dutch tall ship Thalassa with Try-a-Boat+*. One of most beautiful and fastest sea sailors of the Dutch fleet, Thalassa is traditionally rigged but contains all the modern safety features and conveniences expected in today’s craft, offering adventurous sailing with comfortable enjoyment.

So, whether it’s an outing on the water, getting to grips with knot tying and rigging, learning some fettling and boat building skills, understanding the latest in electric and hybrid propulsion or satisfying a shopping urge, there really is something for everyone – whatever your age or interest – in the Classic and Day Boat Zone, powered by Classic Boat Magazine.

Get your ticket

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/

Upgrade your visit with the new and exclusive Quayside Club VIP package at www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

*You will have to pay a small extra fee for all Try-a Boat+ Activities.