The Cruising Association (CA) is excited to welcome visitors to Stand J419 in Ocean Hall at the Southampton International Boat Show. Whether you are just starting your cruising journey in UK waters, planning European inland waterway trips, or dreaming of blue water sailing adventures, the CA offers invaluable resources and support to help you make the most of your time on the water.

A Worldwide Cruising Community

Members of the CA are part of a worldwide community of over 6,400+ sail and motor cruisers. Wherever your destination may be, chances are a CA member has ventured there before you. Harnessing this collective experience, they facilitate knowledge sharing to support their members’ cruising.

Explore the CA at Stand J419

Visitors to the CA stand J419 in Ocean Hall can immerse themselves in the world of sail and motor cruising, with a variety of resources and activities to enhance your experience:

Membership Offer – you cannot put a price on the CA’s cruising expertise, but they can offer 20% off the first year of full membership (paying by Direct Debit) when you join at the show.

CAptain’s Mate – discover the exclusive to members award-winning app, featuring 20,000+ cruising reports across 7,500+ locations in more than 100 countries. Join them for a live CAptain’s Mate demo and see the app’s vast potential.

Expert Advice – schedule a visit to one of their drop-in sessions, available from 1300-1630 hrs, where the Regulatory & Technical Services group (RATS) will provide the latest updates and answer your technical questions, including topics like the UK’s departure from the EU. Daily themes are 13 September – Orca update / 14 September – Orca update / 17 September – Offshore installations, Studland Bay / 18 September – Flares and Distress Signals, Mobile data, Ofcom, Radio Licence and emissions.

Section Days – the CA’s many Sections cater to members who cruise or live in the same area or share similar cruising interests. They are excited to host three Section Days:

  • Channel – crossing the Channel is a key milestone for many. Visit the CA stand on Sunday 15 September to explore available support, including seminars and webinars (like the new First Channel Crossing) which are open to all. Learn about their cruising information and the latest entry/exit processes.
  • Motorboat – join them on Monday 16 September when the CA launches its new Motorboat Section. Hear about the support, resources and upcoming plans, including cruising in company and Zoom talks.
  • European Inland Waterways – visit on Thursday 19 September to explore the delights of cruising Europe’s 30,000km network of canals and rivers.

Cruising Almanac – the CA, in partnership with Imray, will unveil the 2025 edition of the CA Cruising Almanac at the show. Trusted by sail and motor cruisers alike, the Cruising Almanac offers extensive coverage for cruising in Northwest Europe. The 2025 edition introduces a fresh new design and layout, featuring reader-friendly colour coding to easily navigate essential information, including navigational details and contact information. Save postage and pick up your copy at the show or buy from the CA online shop at £28 members / £38 non-members (RRP £44.50) – available for advance online orders from 30 August 2024.

Crewing Service – whether you’re looking for crew or seeking to join a crew, visit the CA on 16, 18, or 19 September between 1000-1800hrs to uncover exciting opportunities. From mid-week sailing and cruising in the UK to European passages, Atlantic crossings and legs on a circumnavigation

Explore cruising – if you are looking for inspiration for cruising locations, they will introduce you to the CA’s extensive range of cruising guides, available in print and online. Plus, you can delve into the Local and Cruising Sections, get details on the upcoming 2024/2025 event and lecture programme, learn about the CA’s worldwide network, find out about their London clubhouse and much, much more.

Prizes – visitors to the CA stand can enter to win fantastic prizes, including a TeamO Offshore BackTow Lifejacket, Re-arming Kit and Tether Package worth £350. New members joining at the show will also be entered into a daily prize draw for a Navionics Boating app 1-year subscription. Members also have until 1500 hours on 18 September 2024 to take part in the Big Summer Prize Draw for a chance to win a Fendertex C-73 docking pack, worth £1,275. There is also a Motorboat book bundle to give away on Monday 16 September.

Socialise and Connect – the CA stand is a hub for socialising, sharing experiences and catching up with fellow cruisers. Drop by during the daily happy hour from 1630-1730 hrs and unwind with a glass of wine.

Bag a Discount – CA members can access discounts from 100s of marine companiesand service providers around the world. Join the CA during the show and you can take advantage of these offers too, including from companies who are exhibiting. From insurance to chandlery, holidays to sails, the CA has you covered.

Join the CA

Since 1908, the CA has been at the heart of the world’s sail and motor cruising community, providing trustworthy knowledge and resources. Visit us at Stand J419 and discover how CA membership can take your cruising to the next level.

For more information, visit www.theca.org.uk/southamptonboatshow.

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