Solent: Poole Harbour Boat Show shortlisted for tourism award

Following the huge success from its inaugural event, Poole Harbour Boat Show has been shortlisted for the Tourism Event of the Year category at the 2015 Dorset Tourism Awards.

Poole Harbour Boat Show took place over two days in May and exceeded organisers’ expectations with visitor numbers in excess of 15,000; reaching 50% over the predicted level.

Organised by the team at Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) and Poole Quay Boat Haven, more than 60 exhibitors used the show as a platform to display their products. Boat enthusiasts gathered onto the pontoons to look at the variety of marine-related businesses, including some big names such as Sunseeker, Princess, Fairline, Windy, Stingher Ribs, Bayliner and Sealine.

Adding to the day-out experience were the popular attractions of a regional boat show including a range of stalls and various activities to keep the crowds entertained including on-the-water displays, tall ships, live music, children’s entertainment and a spectacular firework display on the Saturday evening.

Britain’s Paralmypic medallist Helena Lucas MBE was the guest of honour on the Sunday where she met with guests and showcased her gold medal.

Chief executive of PHC Jim Stewart said: “Being shortlisted for the Tourism Event of the Year category is well-deserved recognition for the team’s efforts. We were delighted with the success of this year’s show and are now in the process of planning the event for 2016.”

For 2016, Poole Harbour Boat Show will be extended to three days and will take place on May 20 to 22.

The PHC team will head to Bovington Tank Museum on October 15 for the awards evening.