When the Southampton International Boat Show returns from 18–27 September 2026, the RYA will be on hand to help visitors make the most of their time on the water, while shining a spotlight on training and careers in the marine sector. 

Whether you're looking for ways to develop your knowledge and skills, or turn your passion for boating into a profession, the RYA Stand and a programme of talks will help you navigate the pathways that lead to a world of opportunity. 

From watersports instructor and coaching roles to superyacht crew and military personnel, boat builders and operators, brokers and surveyors, visitors will be able to discover the vast array of roles in the marine industry - and explore how internationally recognised and portable RYA qualifications can seamlessly open doors for both leisure and work in the UK and abroad.

Visit the RYA stand  

Come along and say hello to the RYA team in New Wave Hall (Stand H128) for expert and tailored advice. From RYA Yachtmaster® to first flights in foiling or winging, if you’re keen to try something new, develop your know-how or keen for a career change, the RYA team will be available to answer your questions.  

Offering a one-stop wealth of information for dinghy, motor and sail cruising, racing, RIBs and sportsboats, windsurfing and personal watercraft, we look forward to welcoming you to the RYA stand, where you will be able to: 

• Find out about RYA Membership benefits, including 20% discount on RYA publications 
• Learn about the RYA qualifications delivered through our network of more than 2,200 Recognised Training Centres across 58 countries. 
• Donate your wetsuits and pre-loved sailing kit to The Green Blue collection point for re-use or recycling with kitround and Circular Flow. 
• Take a break in our Members Corner.  

What’s on stage

In addition to the RYA Stand, don’t miss the keynote talks and discussion panels celebrating careers and opportunities in watersports and the marine sector:  

Friday 18 September | 12 noon-12.45pm

What if one qualification could change your course - and your career?  

RYA Yachtmaster® isn't just a certificate. It's a passport to adventure, global travel and a life on the water. It's also just one of the many ways to unlock opportunities with RYA qualifications. Join main stage presenter Michael Kurn and our panel to see what could be waiting for you, with experts from across the industry and insights from Clipper Round the World Race skipper and Trinity House scholar Ella Hebron, and Pip Woods, CEO of Rockley Watersports.  

Friday 18 September | 12:45pm-1pm

RYA Yachtmaster of the Year Award  

Immediately following the live RYA careers panel discussion, the winner of the RYA Yachtmaster of the Year will be announced with the presentation of the award by special guest, Mike Golding OBE.

Wednesday 23 September | 1.30pm-2.15pm  

Women in Marine Day: The Moments That Matter

Careers are rarely built in one big leap - they’re built through defining moments. In this candid RYA panel session, hear from women in the marine industry ranging from coaches and pro sailors to corporate heavyweights as they share the moments that shaped their careers - from first chances to setbacks and breakthroughs - and what they wish they’d known when starting out. Speakers include Rockley Watersports CEO Pip Woods; British Sailing Youth 420 Team Lead Coach and Advanced Research Engineer Jess Libby from the RYA Female Futures Group; RYA South Regional Manager Susie Moore; Lynn Lees, Rooster Events & Partnerships; and Ella Hebron, Professional Sailor, Yachtmaster, and Clipper Round the World Yacht Race Skipper. 

As part of the Women in Marine Day at the Show, the RYA will also be hosting applicants from the JUMP programme for women and girls aged 16–25, who will have the chance to meet industry experts, attend talks and network. 

Are you looking to broaden your horizons in watersports or the wider marine industry? There will be plenty of opportunities to meet with exhibitors and employers throughout the Show, and you may also want to look out for: 

Tuesday 22 September | 4pm-7pm

Careers & Apprenticeships Evening

Hosted by British Marine at the waterfront Voco Southampton hotel, this free event offers a chance to meet with employers and find out about apprenticeships and job opportunities across the marine sector.  

Wednesday 23 September | 4.30pm–6.30pm

British Marine - Women in Marine  

A panel discussion and networking event led by British Marine and bringing together women from across the industry, including professional crew, yacht broker, lawyer and engineer.  

RYA member ticket offer  

Want in on the action? RYA members can save on tickets to this year’s show with exclusive discounted rates. Get adult tickets, valid for get any single day of the event, for just £20 (RRP £33). Simply check your member benefits to access the discount code or join today to access a whole range of exclusive benefits.