London has a new boat show, as the first annual London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show get underway yesterday
This week marks a new chapter for the London superyacht scene, with the opening of a brand new premium boat show.
The first annual London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show opened in Old Billingsgate market and St Katharine Docks yesterday and runs until Friday (April 10).
Heavy hitters from the superyacht world were in attendance at the indoor section of the show, with the likes of Blohm + Voss, Benetti, Ferretti Group, Princess and Sunseeker all exhibiting at Old Billingsgate.
However, it was the prestige cars that stole the show in this area, with custom Range Rovers from Kahn design flanking the red carpet entrance, and McLarens, Nobles and Aston Martins looking resplendent inside.
Contuining the prestige car theme, Vesaro brought a Formula 1 simulator, which proved to be the most popular attraction.
Premium watches from Ulysse Nardin and top-end jewellery from Gismondi complimented the luxury lifestyle theme.
And although plenty of boat manufacturers are represented inside the historic market, Williams Performance Tenders were the only ones to bring the finished product to Old Billingsgate, with a 385 Turbojet on display.
Down in the docks
Those looking to admire larger craft will have more joy at St Katharine Docks, where Princess led the way, with three motoryachts on the water: the S72, 88 and 98.
Max Whale, commercial director at Princess Motor Yacht Sales, told MBY that he was keen to support this new show and appeal to new audiences:
“Since 2012 we’ve seen an industry turnaround and this show is well timed to take advantage of that,” he said. “Being at the London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show has allowed us to reach out to the London market.
“I really hope this can be proof of concept – for people who are new to the industry, we need shows like this in venues like this.”
Other vessels on display in St Katharine Docks include the Fleming 55, Fairline Targa 38, Bavaria Sport 400, Hardy 40DS, XO 270 Cabin, and Ribeye Prime SIX19.
And for a regal flourish, the Queen’s rowing barge Gloriana was also present, hosting a fashion show that got the first day off on a suitably glamorous note.
The London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show runs at Old Billingsgate and St Katharine Docks until Friday April 10, tickets are £24 in advance and £40 on the door.
