Farnborough to Host RYA Dinghy & Watersports 2026
Alexandra
Farnborough International will stage the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show on 21–22 February 2026, with ticket prices starting at £15, free entry for children under 15 accompanied by a ticketed adult, and complimentary two-day access for RYA members. The event timetable includes scheduled coaching sessions, simulator demonstrations and on-floor workshops designed to move visitors from theory to practical skills within a single weekend.
Key logistics and programme highlights
The convention layout concentrates interactive zones, manufacturers’ stands and coaching arenas to minimise transit time between displays and water-handling demonstrations. Among confirmed attractions are simulator bays for sailing and winging, live rigging zones where attendees can try trapeze and wingfoil setups, and the new NextGen Zone aimed at youth development. Broadly, the show targets dinghy sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and foil sports.
Featured presenters and new elements
The presenting team includes wingfoiler and broadcaster Rafferty Read, who will lead live demonstrations and host interactive Q&A sessions. Organisers are promoting a mix of product launches and practical learning: boat repair clinics, kit try-outs, and coach-led breakouts focused on race tactics, safety and foiling fundamentals. The NextGen Zone is intentionally configured for workshops, junior coaching and confidence-building activities.
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Activities visitors can expect
- Simulator experiences — on-the-floor and 360° virtual reality introductions to sailing and foiling.
- Hands-on rigging — trapeze and wing trials under instructor supervision.
- Coaching sessions — short masterclasses from leading sailors and coaches.
- Repair and maintenance clinics — practical guidance on hull care and small repairs.
- Exhibition stands — new dinghies, sail technology, foils, and watersports gear.
Tickets, access and practical info
| Ticket type | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard single-day | Full access to halls, demos and talks for one day | £15 |
| Two-day | Access both days — includes priority seating for selected talks | Variable |
| Children (under 15) | Free when accompanied by a ticketed adult | Free |
| RYA members | Free two-day ticket (member validation required) | Free |
Arrive early for headline demos and be aware that popular sessions — especially foil and simulator slots — may require pre-booking on arrival. Exhibitor zones will distribute product specs, test-ride vouchers and introductory offers that can influence purchase and charter decisions later in the season.
Why this matters to sailors, charterers and boat renters
Shows of this scale influence the annual equipment cycle and buying patterns. New hull designs, foil packages and power-assisted systems introduced at Farnborough can filter into the charter market within months: charter operators and marinas often adjust inventory to match customer demand for the latest gear. For anyone considering a yacht or boat purchase, or planning a summer rental, seeing kit in person accelerates informed choices about model, size and required crew skills.
How exhibitors affect charter and rental markets
- Manufacturers demo new dinghy and foil platforms that become popular fleet inclusions for schools and charter bases.
- Coaching content helps improve average guest competence, letting charter operators offer more adventurous options safely.
- Accessory launches (safety gear, sails, foils) often result in retrofit programs for existing charter fleets.
Planning your visit and maximising value
To make the most of the weekend, plan around the demo schedule and prioritise workshops that align with your objectives — whether that’s learning a new discipline, vetting kit for purchase or assessing the suitability of a model for charter. Bring a list of questions for manufacturers and note make/model details displayed so comparisons remain accurate when researching later.
Checklist before you go
- Check the demo timetable and reserve simulator slots if available.
- Identify must-see brands and note their stand numbers.
- Bring measurement and capacity questions for boats you may rent or charter.
- If attending with family, plan for Treasure Hunt and junior activities in the NextGen Zone.
Show implications for coastal tourism and marinas
Industry gatherings like this influence destination offerings: marinas and charter companies often reconfigure fleets based on trends showcased at major shows. Recreational trends — for example, an uptick in wingfoiling interest — can shift equipment availability in marinas and alter the kinds of experiences promoted across popular destinations and bays.
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, as we truly understand what it means to enjoy great leisure and love the ocean. The GetBoat service values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose your own course. It places no limits on a good life, allowing clients to find a vessel that suits their preferences, budget, and taste. For visitors who discover a new model or activity at the show, the platform's transparent listings and detailed specs make it easier to follow up with rentals or purchases.
What industry contacts and visitors often take away
Beyond product launches, the show is a networking hub. Charter operators, training centres and dealers often establish partnerships here, which can lead to more diverse charter options and improved local services for sailors. For families and independent sailors, the hands-on elements reduce the barrier to trying something new and can directly influence next-season bookings.
Highlights include the NextGen Zone, simulator demonstrations, practical repair workshops, and live coaching sessions from top coaches. Remember that experiencing a new location is always a multifaceted process, where one learns about the culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors its rhythm of life and also the unique aspects of the service. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
Forecasting how this show will influence the global tourism and travel map, the immediate impact is largely national and sector-specific rather than geopolitical. Innovations displayed at Farnborough can, however, ripple into regional charter offerings and influence demand in popular yachting centres. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
In summary, the 2026 RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show at Farnborough is a concentrated showcase of innovation, coaching and family-friendly activities that matter to sailors, charter operators and marine leisure providers. Visitors will gain practical skills, see the latest in dinghy and foiling technology, and be well placed to make smarter choices about yacht charters, boat rent options and equipment purchases. With transparent listings and comprehensive details like make, model and ratings, platforms such as GetBoat help convert showroom interest into real-world bookings and sales — from small dinghies to superyacht experiences across marinas, lakes, gulfs and oceans — ensuring your next boating activity, whether fishing, yachting or simple beach cruising, is easy to find and book. Book your experience now.
