London Boat Show

madforsailing's practical guide to visiting the show

The 48th London Boat show opens its doors tomorrow 3rd January 2002 to the world’s best known boat show and one of the UK’s major public events, featuring the best in all things boating, from chandlery to watersports, clothing to holidays and of course hundreds of boats.

One of this years big attractions will be Ellen MacArthur's famous boat, Kingfisher, in which she finished second in the Vendee Globe single handed round the world race last year. Kingfisher has also been in action lately, recording a podium place in the Transat Jacques Vabre in November. Alongside Kingfisher will also be Ellen's beloved Iduna, the first boat she bought with her pocket money.

Also 'for your eyes only' will be some of Q's fantastic floating inventions from the James Bond movies like 'Bath-o-Sub' that Blofeld used to escape in 'Diamonds Are Forever'. Marvel at the 'Q Boat' that performed a barrel roll outside the MI6 building on the Thames in 'The World Is Not Enough' . There's also the world's first aqua bike from 'The Spy Who Loved Me'.

Finally, there's always the Guiness stand which need no explanation.

Opening hours

Doors open from 10am - 7pm every day except Sunday 13th 10am - 6pm. Late opening Thursday 10 January 10am - 9.30pm

Ticket Prices

Preview Day
Adult £18.00
Child £9.00

Normal Day
Advance ticket prices Adult £9.50
Child £3.00
On the door Adults £11.00
Child £5.00
Senior Citizen £9.50
After 4pm - adults £5.00

Group bookings (10 or more)
Adults £8

Getting there & travel deals

By Tube
District or Piccadilly line to Earls Court. The station opens into the London Boat Show's entrance foyer. Visitors with a valid London Transport Travel Card saved £2.00 on their show ticket

By Bus
The 74, 328, C1, C3 and N31 stop close to Earls Court. Visitors with a valid London Transport Travel Card saved £2.00 on their Show Ticket

By Coach
National Express. Special all-inclusive deals were available from £17.50

By Train
To a mainline terminus, then by tube to Earls Court. Or to West Brompton station (walking distance) which links to the national rail network. Call 0345 48 49 50 for train times and fares information (calls may be recorded). A discounted ticket deal was available for visitors travelling to the show by train

By Car
Spaces can be booked in advance at a special rate by calling Call 0800 056 8444 (please have your credit card ready)

Click here for strreetmap. http://www.streetmap.co.uk/streetmap.dll?G2M?X=525250&Y=178250&A=Y&Z=1