The Southampton International Boat Show 2025 will feature a new addition to its ten-day programme with the introduction of the Wooden Boat Stage, dedicated to the craft and culture of British wooden boatbuilding.
The stage is a collaboration between the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association (WBTA), the Boat Building Academy (BBA) and Women in Boatbuilding (WIBB), marking the first time these groups have worked together to present a programme of talks, demonstrations, performances and workshops focusing on the future of wooden boatbuilding.
The stage, which is to be located beside the main entrance in the Explore Boating area, will be housed in a purpose-built structure with an entrance designed to resemble the frame of an upturned wooden boat. It will operate daily throughout SIBS, which takes place this year from 9 to 28 September 2025 in Southampton, on the UK south coast.
Live demonstrations at the stage will cover a range of traditional and modern techniques, including carving, steam bending, oar and paddle making, epoxy work, knotting and rigging. Alongside this, the stage will host panel discussions, author talks, music, short films and workshops.
Wooden Boats at Southmapton Boat Show
Jasmine Hill, event director at the Southampton International Boat Show, says: “The launch of the Wooden Boat Stage marks a truly meaningful addition to this year’s show. It’s not only a celebration of craftsmanship, but also a timely response to the urgent need to safeguard traditional skills and inspire the next generation. We’re proud to provide a platform where creativity and hands-on learning come together to honour the rich heritage and promising future of wooden boatbuilding.”
Programme highlights include a book launch by nautical author Julia Jones, a conversation with traditional boatbuilder Michael Dennett, and the Big Boats panel chaired by Hannah Cunliffe, CEO of National Historic Ships. Other contributors include YouTuber Dan Lee, designer and sailor Hanneke Boon, Matt Lis of Woodbridge Boatbuilders, Clementine Mollier of HMS Victory, and graduates and tutors from the Boat Building Academy.
The Wooden Boat Stage is also set to address wider issues within the trade, including the ageing workforce and limited training opportunities, while aiming to show how wooden boatbuilding can be both sustainable and relevant today. Sessions will cover commissioning, surveying and maintenance to provide practical guidance on ownership. Tutors and graduates from the Boat Building Academy will also provide advice on training opportunities.
Belinda Joslin of Women in Boatbuilding says: “For Women in Boatbuilding, the Wooden Boat Stage is also more than just the stage, it’s positioning our organisation and diversity at the heart of the industry. Our goal has been to create a fun stage that showcases the amazing people and talent in our UK industry. We’re delighted that we’re making it happen!”
Will Reed, director at the Boat Building Academy, says: “I am delighted to collaborate with Women in Boatbuilding and the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association in forming the first ever Wooden Boat Stage at the Southampton Boat Show. This is an exciting time for wooden boat building and partnering with these two incredible organisations helps all of us and the industry to thrive.”
Colin Henwood of the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association adds: “The collaboration between Women in Boatbuilding, the Boat Building Academy and the Wooden Boatbuilders’ Trade Association to present the first Wooden Boat Stage at Southampton is clearly demonstrating our collective commitment to gender diversity, training and the future success of wooden boat building in the UK”.
The Wooden Boat Stage is supported by Sykes Timber, Tack & Jibe and British Marine South West.
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