RIBEX, the world’s only boat show dedicated solely to RIBs, will be making a high-profile relaunch as it moves to its brand new location for 2012. The waterside retail development of Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth has secured this unique event which in previous years has been staged in Weymouth, Southampton and Cowes.
Hugo Montgomery-Swan, RIBEX show organiser announced “Come the second weekend in May, the entire Gunwharf Quays complex, including its marina, will be filled with these exciting adventure orientated powerboats, along with a host of special exhibits being displayed by the leading names within the international marine industry. Additional public orientated attractions will include the RIBFEST acoustic music stage featuring a first-class line-up of artists performing throughout each day of the show.”
Breaking the mould of traditional boats shows here in the UK, RIBEX, will be open to the public without charge plus the emphasis will be upon giving all visitors the opportunity to experience RIBs themselves, both by means of the craft being exhibited and available for sea-trial as well having their own RIB Ride Experience. RIBEX is already a popular date on the marine calendar but organisers believe even more people will now be able to take advantage of the exciting show at its new mainland venue so close to the famous historic naval dockyard.
Hugo Montgomery-Swan, continued: “Gunwharf Quays is the perfect venue for RIBEX and RIBFEST. It’s a central location for the marine industry and the site is highly accessible to visitors and exhibitorsalike. We are delighted to be working with the team at Gunwharf Quays. The news of the event’s new location will be of interest to people from many countries all around the world and we expect a terrific turnout.”
“A big part of our decision to move to Gunwharf Quays was to bring RIBs to a whole new consumer audience. With between 80,000 and 100,000 people visiting Gunwharf over the course of the weekend, the opportunities for introducing new people to the world of powerboating is a truly exciting one.Rather than resting on our laurels and simply marketing the show to the existing audience of RIB enthusiasts, we’re keen to bring the fun and joy of the sport to newcomers. Only with this kind of thinking will the marine industry be able to forge ahead.”
Gunwharf Quays has a wealth of designer outlets and restaurants, ensuring the venue will have something for everyone.
