From my last article, you may recall that ‘The Admiral’ and I took an early season shakedown cruise down the coast. Without doubt it will be remembered as one of our most enjoyable. We were blessed with brilliant blue-sky weather, fair winds, a superb coastline to cruise and explore and we also met some great folk along the way. What made it even better was, apart from the demise of the old tender, we had no breakages or mishaps – this always helps to ensure The Admiral (wife) enjoys her time.

Having said we had no breakages or mishaps, that certainly will not put paid to the annual pilgrimage to the Southampton Boat Show. My list of exhibitors to see this year covers those I must thank for providing excellent goods or service, those that sell items I ‘need’ for the boat and then the longer list of those exhibiting non-essential stuff that I would just like to have. Boys and their toys! Having spent vast hours on the show website, I must congratulate the organisers for a very useful and easy to use (even for an old bloke like me) website. Having discovered no Concession ticket for OAPs; I have decided to opt for the £30 two-day pass (the saving on the ticket cost pays for one day’s car parking) One day is never enough time to fully absorb the ambiance of such an event.

My first port of call on day 1 to the ‘must see’ exhibitors will be Jotun Paints to update them on the performance so far on the NonStop II antifouling. As a product trialist for them this season, I send monthly reports on boat usage and the state of the hull. I look forward to meeting the Jotun man to thank and congratulate him on an exceptional product – it really is right up there with the performance of some of the more established brands.

Thereafter I will be visiting the sailmakers to see what is new and find out about the new HSX-P sailcloth. Not that I need a new sail – I just like to stay abreast of technology and new products. Hopefully, as in recent years, all the sailmakers will be clustered together making this a quick(ish) visit. Whilst in the vicinity I will be visiting the retail chandlers: Force 4, Jimmy Green Marine, Marine Superstore and You Boat (normally across the road) to see what show specials they have. I must also visit the Decathlon stand to see if they are bringing a French flair to the event.

“My list of categories (not even exhibitors) that I would like to see is rather extensive, but I will try to condense it to make sure you know where I will be at the show – come and find me and I will buy you a pint!”

Day 2 I will be spending time on the stands I like being on to see (and dream) what I could buy or fit to the boat – if only The Admiral would allow it! Last year I met a very helpful chap on the Quick stand so I must go back to enquire about that new windlass (the old body struggles with anchoring now) and a water heater. Luxuries that, although not necessary on a boat our size, would make life aboard just that little bit more pleasant.

My list of categories (not even exhibitors) that I would like to see is rather extensive, but I will try to condense it to make sure you know where I will be at the show – come and find me and I will buy you a pint! The sea toilet (heads), although still working well, could do with replacing. I am keen to see how the new Albin toilet compares to Jabsco. There cannot be that many variances one can build into a toilet – so it is interesting to compare prices.

One sector of the market that fascinates me for the sheer number of newcomers is the boat cleaning products. Every year there seems to be new ranges – but I am still yet to find a range to compete against Starbrite. It is ‘the’ one range that has a product for everything – from chrome polishing to timer care and heavy stain removal.

I have just been interrupted by her who must be obeyed. I have been asked (instructed) to look for a new cooker. Despite there being nothing wrong with our current model, it is time to upgrade and get a new one fitted. Why on earth do we need a new cooker to boil the kettle and cook a handful of dinners through the year? Anyhow, I look forward to this challenge. I secretly know that whilst on our recent cruise she very much admired the sailcloth bag used by a lady we met. Apparently these bags come in various sizes, colours and styles – so lord alone knows how I am going to select the right one. One cannot do a full two days at the show and not return with a small gift for The Admiral – or can one?

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