The Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS) 2024 is excited to announce its partnership with Southampton Hospitals Charity and their prestigious event ‘Light the South’. This innovative and engaging partnership is set to illuminate Southampton this summer with a vibrant maritime-themed art trail culminating in a spectacular charity auction at the show in September.

Central to this partnership is the ‘Light the South Trail’ (13 July – 8 September 2024). The trail will feature 40, 8ft lighthouses and 40 mini lighthouses uniquely designed and decorated by some of the UK’s most talented artists, schools and community groups. Included in the trail, which will take you on a cultural tour of Southampton and Cowes on the Isle of Wight, will also be a special SIBS lighthouse. The trail will not only offer a visual feast for the eyes but also a unique interactive experience through the ‘Light the South’ app, enhancing the visitor experience.

Speaking of the new partnership, Mark Ring, Head of Events at British Marine, organisers of the Southampton International Boat Show, commented: “This collaboration represents a milestone in our commitment to community engagement and philanthropy. It’s a unique opportunity to blend our maritime heritage with a cause that touches many lives. We are delighted to join forces with Southampton Hospitals Charity for this inspiring initiative and look forward to making a significant impact together.”

The Southampton International Boat Show is committed to educational outreach, integrating the younger generation into the maritime world and fostering early interest in the marine sector. As part of the initiative with ‘Light the Show’ 40 school classes, in addition to the 700 plus children that already visit the show each year, will be invited to attend, where they will get a taste of all things marine life.  With talks, a treasure hunt and lots of opportunities to get out on the water, it promises to be an action-packed day for all.

The Southampton International Boat Show 2024 has named Southampton Hospitals Charity as its Charity of the Year. This partnership will focus on raising funds for Southampton Childrens Hospital, with various initiatives planned, including a donation option integrated into the boat show ticket purchasing process, a dedicated stand in Ocean Hall, and opportunities for visitors to learn more about the charity in talks on the Foredeck Stage.

The partnership’s climax will be a farewell event during the show. This grand occasion will feature all 40 beautifully designed lighthouses, creating an exclusive trail within the show and around the show entrance and culminating in a VIP event and auction at the Quarterdeck Bar & Restaurant.

On behalf of the Southampton Hospitals Charity, Beth Hall, Head of Charity Operations, Projects and Grants, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to announce our brand-new partnership with the Southampton International Boat Show and to be named the official show charity. These unique and individually designed Lighthouses will take residents and visitors on a cultural tour of Southampton, all whilst raising vital funds for Southampton Children’s Hospital which cares for 165,000 children across the South each year.”

For more information visit the ‘Light the South’ website – https://lightthesouth.co.uk/

Tickets for the Boat Show can be purchased online at www.southamptonboatshow.com/visitor-information/tickets/ remember to add your donation to the Southampton Hospitals Charity with your ticket purchase.

Add a little extra to your visit with our Quayside Club package – https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/vip/

The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily except the final Sunday when the show will close at 5pm.

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