The Swanwick Yachting Showcase launches this September

Swanwick Marina on the Hamble River © Swanwick Marina

New event on the Hamble River brings together leading sail and power brands, premium brokerage yachts and sea trial opportunities in a customer-focused environment.

A collective of leading yacht sales and brokerage businesses based at Swanwick Marina has announced the launch of the Swanwick Yachting Showcase, an appointment-led yachting event taking place from the marina on the River Hamble, 19-27 September 2026.

Designed specifically for serious buyers, whether entering the market for the first time or looking to upgrade, the showcase offers a more personal and immersive alternative to a larger show format. Free from crowds and queues, visitors will have unhurried access to a carefully curated collection of new and pre-owned yachts, supported by one-to-one appointments with experienced brokers and brand specialists.

With each business opening its doors, the showcase will feature the latest models from some of the industry's most respected brands, including Beneteau Power and Sail, Lagoon Catamarans, Prestige Motor Yachts, Dufour Yachts, Rhéa Marine - Motor Yachts, Bavaria Sailing and Motor Yachts, Regal Boats, Bali Catamarans, Greenline Yachts, Excess Catamarans, Sanlorenzo, Bluegame, and Jeanneau Sail and Motorboats, alongside an extensive selection of approved pre-owned yachts available for immediate handover.

A key feature of the event will be the opportunity for prospective owners to participate in sea trials on selected models between the Monday and Thursday of the event, providing a valuable chance to experience life on board in real cruising conditions.

Matthew Shave, CEO of Ancasta Group, says: "Purchasing a yacht is a significant decision and one that deserves time and consideration. We've seen a clear shift in buyer expectations, with clients increasingly seeking a more private and personalised environment in which to evaluate their options.

"The Swanwick Yachting Showcase has been designed around that need. By offering dedicated appointments and the opportunity to experience yachts properly, including sea trials on selected models, prospective owners can gain a genuine understanding of how each yacht performs and what life on board could look like. It creates a far more meaningful and informed purchasing experience."

The event brings together some of the most experienced yacht sales professionals in the UK, allowing visitors to compare a broad range of sail and power options in a single location while benefiting from straightforward, knowledgeable advice.

Chris Warwick, Managing Director of Universal Yachting, comments: "Buying a boat is about much more than specifications in a brochure. It's about understanding how it will fit your lifestyle and future boating plans.

"The appointment-led nature of this event allows us to spend quality time with prospective owners, answer questions in detail and provide honest, expert guidance throughout the decision-making process.

"And having multiple leading brands and a strong brokerage selection in one location also gives buyers the opportunity to compare options side-by-side and make decisions with confidence."

Taking place against the historic backdrop of the River Hamble, one of the UK's most renowned yachting destinations, the showcase has been deliberately timed to coincide with the traditional autumn sales season while offering a distinctly different customer experience.

Ben Nichols, UK Sales Director at Clipper Marine, says: "Today's buyers are incredibly well informed before they arrive, but they still value the opportunity to spend time onboard, explore different layouts and discuss their requirements with those that know the models, or individual boats, the best. This format allows for exactly that.

"The option of sea trials is particularly important because nothing compares to experiencing a yacht on the water. It allows clients to understand how a yacht handles, appreciate the onboard environment and truly picture themselves and their families enjoying time afloat."

Vicky Farrow, Managing Director of Sea Ventures (South Coast) Ltd, adds: "There's real value in seeing a boat away from the crowds of a big show. At Swanwick, buyers can take their time, ask the questions that matter to them, and step aboard, or out on the water, without feeling rushed. It's a far more relaxed way to get a genuine feel for a boat."

The Swanwick Yachting Showcase places the emphasis firmly on quality of engagement rather than scale, combining tailored appointments and direct access to industry experts in a relaxed marina setting.

Further details, including the full line-up of yachts and appointment booking information, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Key Event Information

Swanwick Yachting Showcase 2026

• Dates: 19-27 September 2026
• Location: Swanwick Marina, Southampton, Hampshire
• Admission: Free by appointment
• Features: New sail and power yachts, premium brokerage yachts, expert consultations and sea trials on selected models (Monday-Thursday)

About the Swanwick Yachting Showcase

The Swanwick Yachting Showcase is a collaborative event hosted by yacht sales and brokerage businesses based at Swanwick Marina. Bringing together leading sail and power brands alongside a carefully selected brokerage fleet, the event offers prospective owners a personalised environment to explore, compare and experience yachts with the support of industry experts.

Visit www.swanwickyachtingshowcase.co.uk to find out more...