Power-Up with SIBS PowerHub & Live Cockpit Stage

A key element of this year’s reimagined show plan will be the introduction of the PowerHub. Whether you’re in the market for a new boat, keen to check out the latest technology, or simply enjoy being around performance craft in general, the PowerHub’s aim is to bring all these attractions together into a single, cohesive and immersive area of the landside show that complements the powered exhibits afloat in the event marina.

Showcasing the very best boats, engines and personal watercraft available in the UK, the PowerHub will feature such well-known companies as Wolf Rock Marine, Ideal Boat, Bates Wharf, Gibbs Boat Centre, BHG Marine, Boatsmart, Excel Marine, Wills Marine, MCC Marine, Highfield Boats UK Ltd, Orkney Boats, Wessex Marine, RBS Marine, Ribcraft, Cockwells, Argo Yachting, Honda UK, EP Barrus, Suzuki GB, Tohatsu Marine, Ancasta, Blackrock Yachting, Boats UK and many others – all presenting a multitude of trusted brands.

Another highlight of the PowerHub, and new for 2025, is the Cockpit live stage. Presented by Powerboat & RIB magazine and open to all visitors free of charge, the Cockpit promises to be one of the most engaging and informative destinations at the 10-day event.

Its schedule will feature a packed programme of talks, interviews and presentations, each celebrating speed, innovation and the personalities that drive the world of performance boating. Amongst the guests interviewed by PBR Editor, Hugo Montgomery-Swan, will be John Caulcutt – the first man to circumnavigate Britain in a RIB back in 1969 – as well as world-class stuntwoman and offshore powerboater Sarah Donohue.

Offering the benefit of his expert knowledge will be Paul Glatzel, leading RYA powerboat instructor, PBR writer and author of the RYA Powerboat Handbook. Likewise, international champion racers Ben Jelf and Miles Jennings will be sharing their experiences and high-seas dramas with the audience.

The Cockpit stage will also allow visitors to get up close to Good Boy Vodka, this year’s outright winner of the Cowes–Torquay–Cowes powerboat classic, as well as Falcon Multispark, the 1600hp, 42ft Fountain that claimed the same title in 2024.

For those wanting more than just a look or a listen, the Try-a-Boat experience will include the chance to get out on the water – including rides aboard a state-of-the-art Axopar 37XC, an ‘accessible powerboat’ from Wetwheels, and a thrilling high-performance RIB operated by Team Endeavour Racing.

The PowerHub’s On-Water Arena will provide plenty of daily excitement too, with professional jet ski stunt artists and fast-paced displays scheduled throughout the show. Performers such as Jack Moule, Jetsurf and Team Endeavour Racing will deliver the high-energy action.

If you love powerboats and RIBs, along with the machinery and technology that bring them to life, you’ll enjoy the enhanced opportunities that the PowerHub, the Cockpit Stage and the On-Water Arena offer at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show – 19 to 29 September 2025.

And don’t forget, PBR readers receive 40% off entry tickets, so sign up today to take advantage of this and all the other offers, rewards and discounts available with PBR’s all-new digital boating platform.