Edited March 27, 2026
Content by Powerboat & RIB
Plymouth and the South West has a great event to shout about, with Plymouth Boat Fest returning in 2026 to showcase the region’s diverse and fast-evolving marine sector from leisure boating to cutting-edge maritime autonomy.
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Secure your place at Plymouth Boat Fest 2026
Plymouth Yacht Haven will once again play host to the second edition of Plymouth Boat Fest on Saturday 20th June, building on the success of its debut with a vibrant, one-day event that brings together the very best of the South West’s marine industry.
Powered by Marine AI, the event is free to attend with attendees required to claim their tickets online in advance.
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Set across both shoreside exhibits and the marina’s pontoons, the event will feature more than 80 exhibiting companies and vessels, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s marine innovation, expertise and community. From established industry leaders to emerging technology pioneers, Plymouth Boat Fest promises a dynamic mix of displays, demonstrations and hands-on experiences.
At the heart of the festival are its live, on-the-water demonstrations – always a highlight and a key reason to attend. These action-packed sessions give visitors a rare chance to see vessels and technologies in motion, accompanied by expert commentary explaining the skills, innovation and unique capabilities behind each project.
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The 2026 programme includes an exciting line-up of demonstrations. Marine AI will showcase its advanced autonomous vessel software, offering a glimpse into the future of maritime operations. Efoil UK will deliver thrilling high-speed electric hydrofoil displays, while Plymouth RNLI will conduct live training exercises, demonstrating the precision and teamwork behind lifesaving at sea. Adding to the spectacle, cadet sailors from Plym Yacht Club and the Cattewater Gig Rowing Club will highlight traditional and competitive elements of life on the water. Live commentary and spectator areas allow visitors to understand the development, skills and USPs of various projects.
New for 2026 is an expanded Marine Technology Zone, reinforcing Plymouth’s growing reputation as a global hub for marine autonomy and innovation. Supported by Turnchapel Wharf – home to a cluster of pioneering maritime technology companies – the zone will feature both shoreside exhibits and on-water demonstrations of remotely operated and autonomous vessels.
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Visitors will be able to engage directly with leading organisations shaping the future of the sector, including Marine AI, Thales, SEA-KIT, ACUA Ocean, Oshen, the University of Plymouth and Plymouth Marine Laboratory. Together, they represent a powerful cross-section of research, development and commercial expertise driving forward the next generation of marine technology.
Alongside the high-tech focus, Plymouth Boat Fest remains firmly rooted in the region’s rich marine leisure and services sector. Shoreside exhibits, led by Yacht Haven’s new partner Haven Knox-Johnston, will feature a wide range of businesses including Hemisphere Rigging Services, Nathan Bone Yacht Repair, Ancasta, Red Ensign Yachts, Fischer Panda and the Ocean Conservation Trust.
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The on-water display will also be bigger than ever, thanks to expanded pontoon space. Visitors can expect an impressive array of vessels, from luxury motor yachts presented by Princess Motor Yacht Sales to The Island Trust’s striking 96ft tall ship. Other highlights include WetWheels, Wolf Rock Boat Company, Wills Marine, the Plymouth RNLI lifeboat and vessels from Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.
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Plymouth’s largest marina, Plymouth Yacht Haven provides the perfect backdrop for this growing event. Organised by Yacht Havens Group, operator of nine marinas across the UK including the nearby Yacht Haven Quay dry stack facility, the festival continues to establish itself as a key date in the marine calendar.
With free entry and a packed programme appealing to families, enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, Plymouth Boat Fest 2026 is set to be bigger, bolder and more engaging than ever. Visitors are encouraged to book early to secure their place.
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Plymouth Boat Fest is powered by Marine AI and sponsored by Haven Knox-Johnston boat insurance.
Visitors are encouraged to book early to secure their free tickets.
Secure your place at Plymouth Boat Fest 2026
This content was created by the Powerboat & RIB editorial team.
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