Only those with a real sense of perseverance get to see Seawork a very worthwhile exhibition buried in the back of beyond of Southampton
The trade show is the largest and fastest growing international commercial marine and workboat exhibition and conference held in a European working port
This year over 550 exhibitors, promoted a wide range of products and services covering all aspects of the maritime sector.
Attracting more than 7,500 visitors from over 53 countries across the globe, Seawork it offers buyers, sellers, innovators and legislators the opportunity to attend technical discussions, and see new and innovative maritime products.
The show culminates after its three day stint with an Awards ceremony celebrating individuals and organisation’s successes over the past year.
Associated British Ports has hosted Seawork since the first edition in 1998 at the QEII Terminal. Since 2000, the exhibition has been held in and around the Fruit Terminal at 103/4 berths in the Western Docks.
It is buried inside a dockland shed, miles from anywhere accessible only in a shuttlebus or by taking a considerable hike the exhibition is very hard to find.
Yet as we found out yesterday it is rewarding for anyone interested in the marine industry.
So we were pleased to learn that Organisers, Mercator Media, has now announced that it has reached an agreement in principle with Southampton City Council to move Seawork to Mayflower Park, home of the Southampton Boat Show.
The move will allow the exhibition to grow both on the water and on land. Mayflower Park is a more central location and also enjoys easy access with great transport links, ample parking, good accommodation as well as superb eateries on Oxford Street and beyond.
In its new location Seawork will be able to deliver more space afloat, new scope for exhibitors, and enhanced networking, catering and meeting facilities.
Seawork International will open at its new home in Mayflower Park 14 – 16 June 2016.