With more than 560 stands crammed with nautical paraphernalia, everything was shipshape and Beaulieu fashion as nearly 6,600 visitors turned out for the 40th Boatjumble.
Boating enthusiasts turned out in force for the landmark event on Sunday 23rd April and were spoilt for choice by the impressive variety of marine items on offer, as they scoured the event fields for bargains.
From cleats and seats right up to vessels for sale, the Beaulieu Boatjumble was a one-stop shop for anyone planning for this year’s boating season. Whether show-goers were looking for a replacement steering wheel for a classic sports boat, serviceable second-hand sail, set of fenders or inboard diesel engine, Beaulieu’s Boatjumble was the place to find it.
A must-see of the show was the chance to meet the Ocean Brothers, who are preparing to row across the Atlantic to raise £100,000 for the British Skin Foundation in memory of their late father. New Forest doctor Greg Bailey and his step-brother Jude Massey, a sailing and ski instructor, showed visitors the two-man rowing vessel they will be confined to for the 11-week voyage and talked to them about the challenge in honour of Peter Massey who died after a long battle against skin cancer. See www.oceanbrothers.co.uk for more details.
Trunk Traders was a popular highlight of the event, with more than 100 enthusiasts driving into the show to sell unwanted spares and nautical knick-knacks from their car boots.
Marking its 50th anniversary, Beaulieu Boatjumble’s media sponsor Practical Boat Owner offered masterclasses in the Ask The Experts Live! feature. Maritime professionals gave advice on a range of subjects including sail trimming, effective anchoring, repairing fibreglass and diesel engine maintenance. Back issues from the magazine’s 50-year history were also sold at special show prices.
BHG Marine, which has just opened a new BHG Service Chandlery at the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour on the Beaulieu River also celebrated its 70th year at a stand at the show.
In Boatmall, HM Coastguard Search and Rescue displayed a fast response boat while the RNLI promoted safety at sea.
Boats in Boatmart included a classic Cornish Shrimper 19’ with a fetching yellow hull which was on sale at £14,499, plus an impressive wooden 2003 Gaff Cutter for £6,500. A 1963 Wayfarer sailing dinghy was on sale at £1,895, while power boat fans could buy a 2004 Hellwig Milos speed boat fitted with a 190 HP Mercruiser engine for £5,950.
Deals were done for nearly-new canoes, kayaks, inflatable dinghies and rigid tenders fit for years of faithful service. All manner of Seagull, Yamaha, Mercury and Mariner outboard engines were available, while sailors could browse a selection of quality new and second-hand wooden fixtures and fittings, cookers, sinks and toilets. There was also plenty of choice with brand new chandlery items, including ropes, chains, winches, fenders, anti-fouling paints, polishes, lubricants, life jackets, deck shoes and sailing gloves.
Buyers adding a nautical theme to their home were also snapping up traditional sailing accessories, including ship bells, brass portholes, oars and vintage lamps.
For more information on Beaulieu’s 2017 calendar of events, click here.