There's something for everyone on the Foredeck Stage at Southampton International Boat Show 2022
by British Marine 3 Sep 2022 10:39 UTC
16-25 September 2022
Foredeck Stage - Southampton International Boat Show 2022 © British Marine
From expert advice about how to buy a boat through to insider insight into the making of the famous 'Swallows and Amazons' feature film, the Foredeck Stage at the Southampton International Boat Show has a packed schedule of daily talks.
With each session lasting half an hour, the Foredeck Stage, surrounded by bars and food outlets, is the perfect place for visitors to sit and relax and enjoy informative, amusing and inspirational talks from a variety of speakers.
For those looking at ways to get on the water, there will be holiday-enticing talks from Barry Nielsen, founder of Sailing Holidays, about how to book and enjoy a flotilla, while Southampton Football Club legend, Franny Benali MBE, shares the story of his boating journey from 'zero to hero'.
For those seeking more challenging adventures, Will Croxford and fellow challengers, will be describing their adventures in the upcoming Global Solo Challenge and inspiring others to sign up for the 2023 event. Andrew Curtis will describe his epic expedition taking part in the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Rowing Challenge while Andrew Bedwell describes his solo attempt across the Atlantic in the World's smallest boat. The 'In our Element' Atlantic rowers, who are taking on the 'world's toughest row' will also be on stage joined by Professor Andy Pickford from the Centre for Enzyme Innovation at the University of Portsmouth, who will be talking about his fascinating enzyme research which is leading to incredible developments in being able to break down non-renewable materials.
The intriguingly titled talk 'Satellites to Frying Pans' by round the world sailor Stokey Woodall discusses when things go wrong with navigation systems and how to overcome this. With more than 300,000 nautical miles under his belt, Stokey will show the audience how to navigate with a frying pan and tell the time by the stars.
There's advice about how to buy a boat including leasing, finance, and part-ownership options from industry experts within the British Marine followed by an open question and answer session with the audience, through to understanding the importance of having a boat survey, and technical information about the best way to protect your boat using West System epoxies, and how to retrofit electrical engines.
The Cruising Association will take to the stage to explain how they help sailors make the most of being on the water, and to share key information about Channel Crossing Paperwork Procedures, with members detailing their own personal experiences and tips to make it easier. Expert sailor and journalist Duncan Wells will be delivering his entertaining and informative session on 'how to cast off and come alongside the stress-free way'.
Premier Marinas will explain their 360-marina experience, and there's a myriad of experts talking about equipment on board - from the right and wrong way to fit a diesel heater, rope safety, and the correct set up and uses of Automatic Identifications System (AIS) and Digital Selective Calling (DSC). With safety always a key subject, there will be talks about what you need to carry in a life raft, and representatives from the Department of Transport will explain about how to safely dispose of flares. The RYA will explain the safety benefits of its SafeTrx system.
Tuesday 20 September is Careers Day at the show, and talks will include UKSA's Ben Willows describing his inspirational journey from watersports instructor to Chief Executive. Ben Sutcliffe-Davies, will take to the stage to explain the role of a marine surveyor, and how to become one. Plus, a practical demonstration of skills followed by a question and answers session with representatives from the International Boatbuilding Training College.
On Wednesday 21, the focus is on the environment, with a series of interesting and thought-provoking talks including how to 'sail without stowaways', and a session on boat abandonment and its impact on the environment. The Green Blue will be launching its Environmental Pledge, and World Sailing will be talking about the life cycle of marine products and equipment. Representatives from the LIFE ReMEDIES team will be outlining this four-year marine conservation project to restore sensitive seabed habitats.
The role and opportunities for Women in Marine is highlighted on Thursday 22 September with talks from influential and inspirational women from the marine sector, panel discussions and a 'Women in Marine' networking event, with canapes and a glass of 'bubbles'. Friday 23, sees the stage opened for clubs and class associations, interspersed with lively and popular talks from famous sailors including the ever-amusing Tom Cunliffe, who will also be speaking throughout the week about 'Choosing the right boat for you'. There will be a further opportunity in the afternoon to get to know the associations with a variety of talks from groups within the sector.
Head over the Foredeck stage throughout the week and enjoy a whole host of engaging, entertaining and educational talks. View the full schedule here