Plymouth Boat Fest is setting sail again, with organisers gearing up for an even bigger splash in 2026. Following the success of its inaugural event earlier this year, the festival has announced its return on Saturday, 20 June 2026. The 2025 show, held at Plymouth Yacht Haven, drew in over 50 exhibiting companies and 30 vessels, showcasing everything from marine technology to leisure and conservation sectors. It wasn’t just a trade show; it was a community event that highlighted the Westcountry’s vibrant maritime sector and sparked conversations about future skills and employment opportunities.
Steve Cox, marina manager at Plymouth Yacht Haven, reflected on the event’s debut, saying, “This year was a great starting point for Plymouth Boat Fest. It became a showcase for the Westcountry’s broad maritime sector, with companies not only presenting their vessels, products, and services, but also engaging the local community around future skills and employment opportunities.” This community-centric approach set the tone for what’s to come, with organisers promising an expanded programme for next year.
For 2026, the event is set to grow in several key areas. The Marine Technology Zone is a major focus, reflecting Plymouth’s burgeoning reputation for maritime innovation. With support from Turnchapel Wharf, this zone will feature live demonstrations of remote-controlled and autonomous boats, along with expanded on-water displays. More pontoon space will also be available, allowing even more boats to participate. This expansion is a clear nod to the growing interest in cutting-edge maritime technology and its potential to shape the future of the industry.
The event’s success has also prompted the launch of a dedicated website, underscoring the organisers’ ambition to grow the show year-on-year. Cox noted, “Creating a standalone website underlines our ambition to grow the show year-on-year and provide a central hub for everyone involved.” The new website aims to streamline information for both visitors and exhibitors, making it easier to stay informed and engaged as the event evolves.
Looking ahead, the 2026 edition of Plymouth Boat Fest promises to be a pivotal moment for the maritime community in the South West. With increased ticket capacity, a more extensive on-water demonstration schedule, and a stronger focus on innovation, the event is poised to become a cornerstone of the regional maritime calendar. As the festival grows, it will not only attract more exhibitors and visitors but also foster deeper connections between industry leaders, innovators, and the local community.
In summary, Plymouth Boat Fest is more than just a boat show; it’s a celebration of maritime innovation, community engagement, and the bright future of the industry. With ambitious plans for expansion and a clear focus on technology and sustainability, the event is set to make waves in the maritime world.