BOATS2020 Cancelled at the Last Minute Over COVID Fears
British Marine has shockingly pulled the plug on BOATS2020 just a day before it was set to open. The show, scheduled for 11-20 September in Southampton, was scrapped after a bombshell announcement from Southampton City Council on 10 September, citing rising COVID-19 risks and government concerns.
Eleventh-Hour Blow to Boating World
Exhibitors were already gearing up on-site, confident the event met strict Public Health England COVID-19 safety rules. But the sudden cancellation left organisers and industry insiders reeling.
Lesley Robinson, CEO of British Marine, said: “We are desperately disappointed that BOATS2020 will no longer be taking place, especially receiving the news at the eleventh hour before opening. A tremendous amount of work has been put in and it was heartening to see committed exhibitors on-site today getting geared up for opening.”
“We were ready to open a safe show supporting both the leisure marine industry and Southampton. We are truly perplexed as to why we cannot run the show, at least until Monday, in line with the government restrictions imposed yesterday. But public health comes first and we must comply with all guidance.”
MDL Ocean Village Event Also Cancelled
British Marine also confirmed that the MDL Ocean Village event has been cancelled. With the pandemic continuing to cause havoc, the leisure marine sector faces yet another blow.
Ticket Holders Promised Credit for 2021 Show
Organisers promised to contact all exhibitors, ticket holders, and stakeholders soon. Ticket holders for BOATS2020 will receive a credit to use when buying tickets for the Southampton International Boat Show 2021.
“As soon as tickets go on sale next year, we’ll email a redemption code so you can apply your credit easily,” said British Marine. A tough break for fans, but the show must go on – safely.
