Published on: 02 August 2023
Visit the Dinghy Zone for all the latest boats, gear, and accessories for dinghy enthusiasts
Whether you’re a dedicated dinghy fan or new to the sport and looking for helpful advice and inspiration from the experts, then the Dinghy Zone at the Southampton International Boat Show is the place to be from 15-24 September.
“The Dinghy Zone always has its own special vibe within the show,” comments Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine. “Dinghy sailing attracts such a wide audience, from youngsters getting into their first boat to dedicated racers, and those looking for the ideal ‘one size fits all’ dinghy for fun on the water, wherever you are in the world. In the Dinghy Zone you can see, try, and buy, with advice and top tips from the experts, you can even have a go with Get Afloat over in the show marina, which is included in the price of your show ticket.”
RS Sailing has a range of nine different dinghies on display, from the tiniest RS Tera up to the RS21 race-ready keelboat. There’s a boat to suit everyone, from world-class racing sailors and aspiring young Olympians, to families wanting to potter about on the water, and look out for RS’s special discounts and packages exclusive to the show. The RS Sailing Store also has a pop-up shop at the show, with lots of show deals, offers and helpful advice from the RS Customer Care Team.
Hartley Boats will be displaying its range of dinghies from its training and beginners’ boats to cruising dinghies and sophisticated one-design racers. Another ideal dinghy for both youngsters and adults is the Fusion, or if you can’t decide what you want, take a look at the “4-in-1” Maverick. From sailing sitting down to stand up sailing, or adaptable as a SUP or windsurfer, this multi-functional dinghy does everything! It’s the ideal ‘one size fits all’ craft for taking on holiday or putting on the coach roof of a bluewater cruiser for fun in the sun, wherever you are in the world.
One to look out for will be the brand-new Topper. Designed in 1977 by Ian Proctor, this iconic boat has been in continuous production for the last 40 years. This year sees the launch of the new “Cool Grey” Topper, made from rota-moulded UV-stabilised polyethylene. There’s a host of additional features including more internal storage spaces – vital for food, drink and extra clothing when sailing – as well as adjustable toe straps, centralised flush mounted self-bailer and added protection for the dagger board. With a choice of three sail rigs, the Topper is ideal for everyone from complete beginners and youngsters wanting to have fun through to international racers competing in National and International events all over the world. Launched earlier this year, and now with full World Sailing approval, the Southampton International Boat Show is one of the first places to see the new “Cool Grey” racing Topper which costs from £3,795 inc. VAT.
For some dinghy zone retail therapy, the Rooster stand is the place to go. With everything from technical and casual watersports clothing, bags and accessories, boots, socks and gloves, there’s also a chandlery section and sale rails for those looking for a bargain. New on the stand this year will be the Aquafleece robe in a range of new colourways.
Dotted alongside the sailing dinghies, visitors can also find accessories and kit useful for sailing clubs and complimentary to dinghy sailing activities. New to the UK and also first time exhibiting at SIBS, RotoTech’s range of tough, durable and fully recyclable polyethylene boats, from 3.5m-5m, are made in Poland primarily for the Search and Rescue market. Equally good as a leisure boat for a wide range of users, the modular design means accessories and upgrades can be easily added to compliment the removable and bolt-in storage options already available on board. One of the boats on display will be fully kitted out with Railblaza accessories, demonstrating the versatility of these craft.
And whilst being on shore is great, why not get out on the water and have a go? Suitable for the over 8’s to over 80’s, the ever popular Get Afloat feature is a free opportunity to have fun out on the water under expert guidance from the friendly team of qualified instructors from Rockley Watersports. Simply sign up to book a slot for dinghy sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. All the necessary kit, wetsuits, and buoyancy aids are provided for an hour’s fun on the water. And once back ashore, the buzzing Dinghy Zone is the ideal place to see all the boats, equipment and accessories needed to continue having fun on the water.
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.
