Running from 9–11 June at Mayflower Park, Southampton, Seawork, owned by Mercator Media and in partnership with this publication, returns with a record number of new exhibitors, expanded specialist zones, a packed conference programme and more than 70 vessels and floating plant displayed on the pontoons outside that have been specially built for the event.
The annual exhibition, now firmly established as Europe’s largest on-water commercial marine and workboat event, attracts visitors from more than 60 countries spanning vessel operations, marine civils, offshore renewables, ports, defence, engineering and shipbuilding.
Among this year’s highlights are several new pavilions designed to reflect emerging trends and specialist sectors, such as the Autonomous & Remote-Operated Vessel Pavilion, supported by the National Oceanography Centre Innovation Hub, which will spotlight advances in uncrewed marine systems. For the first time this year there is also a British Superyacht Pavilion, aimed at strengthening links between commercial marine technology and the superyacht sector. An Electrification Zone will also showcase shore power and low-emission solutions.
Visitors can also expect a packed conference schedule, with free-to-attend sessions and business briefings running throughout the three-day event, covering topics ranging from vessel decarbonisation and autonomy to offshore operations, skills and regulation.
“It’s a very exciting time for the commercial marine business,” said Andrew Webster, Mercator Media CEO. “It under-pins the UK’s marine infrastructure and it’s a fantastic time for innovation and change. With the development of autonomous vessels, we are seeing a brave new world, and it’s always great to catch up and see everyone together.”
Innovation remains central to the show, with organisers reporting a record number of entries for the Seawork Innovation Awards, which will be presented on the opening day. The awards recognise new products, systems and technologies introduced to the commercial marine market over the past 12 months.
And while business remains the core focus, Seawork will once again inject some fun into proceedings with its Cardboard Boat Regatta, which has also received a record number of entries this year. Teams will race home-made cardboard craft in a football World Cup-themed challenge. Prize for the best sinking.
