Its been dyeing for years having shot itself in the foot by moving from a central venue to one that no one wants to visit.
But now the London Boat Show is having a grasp at life again in a desperate attempt to save itself from extinction.
“This is,” say the organisers, “The London Boat Show re-defined and re-imagined. Drawing from its past heritage, but firmly setting a new course to inspire and excite the modern enthusiast and consumer for years to come.
Welcome to the London Boat Show, now featuring the Boating & Watersports Holiday Show and Bespoke London.
It’s going to be different. (or so they promise)
Now shrunk from 10 to 5 days the event starts on Wednesday 10 January and runs until Sunday 14 January.
Gone is the Preview and Press day and the two weekends of show time viewing have become just one.
Featuring global and boutique brands, a new Boating & Watersports Holiday Show is set to run along side the now shrunken boat show. The organisers insist that this will be the place to book your next unforgettable boating break. Brands confirmed include Sail Ionian and Minorca Sailing.
Bespoke London is the last of the three shows that will run together. Designed exclusively by British Marine Boat Shows, it will, they say, be carefully curated and populated by premium brands offering unique experiences and content that will be irresistible to those hard to reach ultra-high net worth individuals. (most of who not be seen dead anywhere the Excel Exhibition centre
Since the re-imagined London Boat Show was unveiled the organisers have signed up big names. They have also confirmed they will host what they call The Legends Theatre.
Packed with sailing superstars from past and present, it will be at the heart of the 2018 London Boat Show.
Inspiring and exciting visitors to the Show and its two complementary events, this intimate space is intended to become the hub for motivation, advice and knowledge.
Sessions at the theatre throughout the day will include interviews with boating legends, sharing their personal experiences that will prove both inspirational and educational.
Each guest speaker has a unique story to tell and the 2018 event will offer visitors exclusive access to the stars and their tales.
Visitors can also get involved with the question and answer sessions, a unique chance to put their questions directly to the heroes of their sport or those experts who can provide top advice.
I for one can’t wait!