SBS BoatLife 2023 day one a big success
by Boat Life Events 16 Feb 2023 17:34 UTC
16-19 February 2023
SBS BoatLife 2023 © Jon Shrimpton
The doors opened at SBS BoatLife 2023 today in the NEC Birmingham and welcomed a steady stream of visitors to this highly anticipated boating community event.
Starting with a photocall at the GJW Activity Pool, a number of ambassadors kicked off the four day event with pro-wakeboarder Matt Crowhurst, angling aficionados John Locker and Will Parkinson plus fishing family Team Squidward 3 in the line-up.
On the Main Stage Joel Chadwick from Pelagic Network talked through clothing solutions for boaters and Mark Covell had the opportunity to chat with Director of BoatLife Events Richard Dove about the fantastic growth of the show. The exciting Sea Angling Classic boat reveal drew a large audience while at the Angling Stage, Hannah Rudd author of recently published "Britain's Living Seas", outlined the vital work of Shark Hub UK.
Brands exhibiting RIBs and motor boats on display included The Wolf Rock Boat Company who showcased models from Idea Marine, Iron Boats and Brig, alongside impressive exhibits from Moomba and Supra, Highfield RIBs and Suzuki Marine. A great range of Buster RIBs on show with brand new exhibitors The Aluminium Boat Company proved a pull as well as a UK debut from H20 Leisure with Centurion Ri230 and Scarab 285 powerboats.
The Inland Zone saw increased footfall, with the Oakums electric narrowboat proving a big crowd pleaser and visitors relishing the opportunity to talk holidays with Richardsons. New & Used Boats enjoyed a global launch of their stunning new widebeam canal boat while Burton Waters showcased the UK debut of the superb Delphia 11 Sedan. In the sailing sector Rooster Sailing, Topper and Hartley Boats put on a colourful display across various ranges.
Freedom Boat Club UK launched a brand-new franchise location on the amazing waterfront of Loch Lomond. Their fifth UK club, opening early summer 2023, further enhances the amazing benefits of membership. SBS trailer tests and 4x4 experiences were on offer with automotive partner Isuzu, while the challenging Shimano Fishing Simulator offered keen anglers a realistic experience. Green tech was well represented with Mastervolt, Torqueedo and Solar Technology and the UK debut of the beautiful Waterlodge Eden 14 floating apartment piqued plenty of interest.
Although boats are the obvious stars of the show, SBS BoatLife is above and beyond any regular boating event. Delivering the chance for meet & greet sessions with ambassadors, experts on hand to deliver advice and so many have-a-go activities, this family friendly show has evolved considerably in just its second year. Visitors and exhibitors alike are enjoying the welcoming atmosphere, great enthusiasm and positive vibe on the BoatLife floor.