Visitors to the ExCel London Boat Show were 9 per cent down on last year, at 102,655 according to National Boat Show’s count which is yet to be audited. More than 44,500 visitors streamed through the gates over the final three days but this was not enough to make up for the quiet start to the show.  

‘To have welcomed over 100,000 visitors to the 2010 Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show, considering such adverse weather, has been reassuring for the Show and importantly the marine industry,’ said Andrew Williams, Managing Director of National Boat Shows.  ‘Indeed, to have opened the Show on time at 10am last Friday (8 January), with exhibitors and the Show ready and waiting was an amazing achievement in itself.  Feedback has been exceptional and despite a quiet few days at the beginning, the atmosphere within the halls and support from the exhibitors has been superb.’

Paul Strzelecki, Chairman of National Boat Shows said: ‘This Show has been a credit to our industry and those who work in it.  We have met the dual challenges of terrible weather and a difficult economy with a spirit of positivity and enthusiasm which ensures that we start 2010 with renewed optimism, looking forward to the PSP Southampton Boat Show in September.’

Consultation with exhibitors regarding the development of the London International Boat Show has been going on throughout the week.  This has identified many new concepts and ideas and NBS will be developing these into plans to ensure the Show continues to go from strength to strength, delivering such a vital showcase for the UK marine industry.

With such a relevant audience making it to this year’s Show, exhibitors have been reporting strong sales and much positive interest.  Indeed, within hours of the Show opening last Friday, Nautique Marine announced the sale of a 20ft Nautique 200.

Claire Horsman, Northshore: ‘Southerly was very pleased again with this year’s Show.  In spite of the appalling weather conditions at the beginning of the week our stand, even though bigger than last year, was constantly full of people eager to learn about the Southerly 49 with its unique swing keel.  Overall, Southerly has had a very successful Show and surpassed our sales targets. We noticed a distinct mix of serious international visitors at the Show and we are planning a larger stand for 2011.’

Michel Francois, Jeanneau: ‘Considering the weather conditions we have had a good Show. Combining sail and power onto one stand has worked well for us and we look forward to working with NBS to further develop our presence next year and beyond.’   

Peter Thomas, Sales Manager, Cornish Crabbers LLP:  ‘The Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our boats at a key time leading up to the new sailing season. This year has proved no exception with our sales targets achieved and overwhelming enquiries into our new Crabber 26 giving great encouragement.  We now go into the New Year with a seven month order book and a line of firm enquiries that will take us through to the PSP Southampton Boat Show in September.  A well organised Show which has overcome the weather and financial conditions to provide a confident display to the boat buying public. Well done BMF and NBS.’