Marine AI has been announced as the new title sponsor of Plymouth Boat Fest 2026, with the event set to return on Saturday 20th June at Plymouth Yacht Haven under the new banner Plymouth Boat Fest, powered by Marine AI. Alongside the announcement, organisers have released free visitor tickets for the South West’s major boat show, which returns following a highly successful inaugural event in 2025.
Organised by Yacht Havens Group, the 2026 event builds on a hugely successful debut in June 2025, which welcomed more than 50 exhibiting companies and 30 vessels spanning marine technology, leisure, services and ocean conservation.
"A showcase for the South West’s diverse maritime sector"
Announcing the return of the event and its new title sponsor, organisers revealed plans to expand the show for 2026, including increased ticket capacity and a larger on-water demonstration programme.
“2025 was a great starting point for Plymouth Boat Fest,” said Steve Cox, Event Organiser at Plymouth Yacht Haven. “It became a showcase for the South West’s diverse maritime sector, bringing together companies displaying their vessels, products and services while also connecting with the local community around future skills and career opportunities.”
"A global centre for marine autonomy and advanced maritime technology"
Commenting on the new partnership with Marine AI, Steve added: “Marine AI represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking innovation that is shaping the future of the marine industry. Plymouth and Turnchapel Wharf has become a global centre for marine autonomy and advanced maritime technology, and Marine AI are playing a leading role in that story. As a fast-growing technology company and an important STEM employer in the city, their involvement in Plymouth Boat Fest reflects both the direction the industry is heading and the opportunities it’s creating locally. We’re delighted to have them on board.
"Showcase the region’s leadership in maritime innovation"
Commenting on the event and sponsorship, Director of Engineering for Marine AI OIiver Thompson said; “Marine AI is delighted to support Plymouth Boat Fest 2026 as title sponsor. Plymouth has recently been declared the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, driven by the incredible innovation happening across the region. Marine AI is proud to have been part of that journey from the early days and is delighted to support the event that brings together industry, the local community and the next generation of engineers and mariners. Plymouth Boat Fest is a fantastic platform to showcase the region’s leadership in maritime innovation and inspire future generations to engage with the rapidly evolving marine technology sector as title sponsor as we grow the event for 2026.”
Plans include an expanded Marine Technology Zone highlighting Plymouth’s growing reputation as a centre for marine autonomy. Supported by Turnchapel Wharf, home to a cluster of maritime autonomy companies, the zone will feature demonstrations of remotely operated and autonomous vessels alongside on-water displays showcasing the sector’s capabilities.
The marine leisure and services sector shoreside is led by new partner Haven Knox-Johnston, with exhibitors including Hemisphere Rigging Services, Nathan Bone Yacht Repair, Ancasta, Red Ensign Yachts, Fischer Panda and the Ocean Conservation Trust.
The on-water exhibition area will also be expanded, with additional pontoon space allowing even more vessels to be displayed. Confirmed for 2026 include Princess Motor Yacht Sales, The Island Trust’s 96ft tall ship, WetWheels, Wolf Rock Boat Company, Wills Marine, Plymouth RNLI lifeboat, and vessels from Cattewater Harbour Commissioners among others.
Visitors are encouraged to book early to secure their free tickets by visiting plymouthboatfest.com. Exhibitors can also sign up for the 2026 show via the website.
