London boat show 2013

Burtox · 12 January 2013, 19:47

I went to the London boat show today which turned out to be a real disappointment.
Usually this show fills both of the Excel halls but this year has only fill one

There was very few RIB manufacturers and only a hand full of chandlers.

My advise is not to waste the petrol money getting there, but go to you local chandler and waste £50 on some thing you want but don't really need as this will give you a warmer feeling.

Has anyone else been perhaps I missed all the bargains and RIBs?

ppenman · 12 January 2013, 19:55

Yup. I was there today also. Totally agree. Very disappointing.

IanH · 12 January 2013, 20:00

Does any know what Icom announced? Nothing on their website about their 4 new marine products although a couple items are 'coming soon' but does not explain the other two.

Doug Stormforce · 12 January 2013, 20:00

To be fair, last year the show was spread across both halls but did not fill them, there was a large part of both halls not used. Going back a few years, Excel was extended. Since the extension the boat show has never filled both halls. The extension unfortunately gives the impression that the show is smaller.

Putting everything into one big hall and running the full length seems to make sense to me.

I have not actually seen much of the show yet as I have been on the Stormforce Coaching stand all day. Most of the visitors I spoke to seemed quite happy with the show though.

andyhuddy · 12 January 2013, 20:22

I was there today, I have been southampton 4 times and find it a great show. I enjoyed today as it was different to being outside at southampton.

However I also was disappointed at the chandlery, I could only find one stand selling anchor rope & chain , and I couldn't even buy some I would have to pay a delivery charge and get it next week and I also thought the chandlery was over priced!!

Was hoping to get some oil for the Optimax, couldn't find anyone selling it, I also couldn't find a Mercury outboard stand?

Sunseekers great as usual & I thought there was a good range of boats displayed.

Would go again, simply because I like wondering round & dreaming!

7/10*