Jersey Boat Show celebrates its 10th birthday

Saturday 29 April 2017

Barclays Jersey Boat Show is celebrating its 10th birthday this Bank Holiday weekend with over 120 exhibitors, and thousands of Islanders expected.

Despite a mixed weather forecast, the star of this year boat show might well be HMS Mersey, a patrol vessel from the Royal Navy.

Other highlights include a return visit to Jersey waters by the world-renowned yacht, Gipsy Moth IV, in which Sir Francis Chichester sailed around the world in 1966 as well as Christiana, a former Norwegian rescue boat which is stopping off in Jersey on its way to Istanbul as part of a 12-month Seed Journey, a project set up by the internationally renowned artist collective Future Farmers.

Both vessels will be open to the public during the weekend as well as other super yachts or more practical water craft. 

Local talent will also be on deck to perform on the Solent Stevedores Main Stage. The set list include Inside Job, Take This, The Jersey Bounce as well as Hot Bananas, Lauren Ivy & the Engine, Backbeat Jersey and No Strings Attached.

The ‘Outdoor & Active Zone’ on the Albert Pier, sponsored by Condor Ferries, will host a series of water demonstrations and displays both on and off the water. An enlarged Kids Play Zone located in Marina Gardens will offer various activities, making sure that Islanders of all ages will find something to their taste.

Myra Shacklady, Key Account and Marketing Director for the Ports of Jersey commented: “Whether you’re an experienced mariner or not, the show promises something for everyone. It’s a great chance to blow away those winter blues and get set for summer – whatever the weather!"

The event will benefit three local charities chosen by Barclays. To keep in with the anniversary theme, they represent the letters TEN, Teenage Cancer Trust, EyeCan and the NSPCC Jersey. Each charity is allocated one of the days over the weekend to raise their own profile and fund-raising efforts, which will include a public performance on the Main Stage by the EyeCan Choir on Sunday 30 April.