The 2024 Barclays Jersey Boat Show is being held over three days at the St Helier Marina and surrounding areas from Saturday 4 May to Monday 6 May 2023 (Bank Holiday), and it features several new attractions.
A full-sized replica of a 17th century Spanish galleon will be visiting the show, after technical issues meant her visit was cancelled last year. El Galeon is nearly 50m long with six decks and will be berthed on Albert Pier. The crew will be on hand to explain more about the ship and the history behind the Spanish fleet, which was mainly used between the 16th and 18th centuries and took the lead in many of the world’s trade routes.
The galleons were originally built to cross the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, taking basic products like wheat, olive oil, wine, cloths and fabrics, weapons, and tools from Spain. When the galleons came back from America and the Philippines, they mainly carried gold, silver, ivory, silk, and precious gems.
The Royal Navy are bringing two Archer Class patrol and training vessels (P2000s) which are used for mine hunting, safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the safe navigation of coastal waters. They are also bringing a Viking amphibious armoured all-terrain vehicle which can land troops ashore and cross rivers and lakes. And they are bringing their display dive tank, along with a Royal Navy dive team.
Visits from Royal Navy assets are always subject to operational requirements.
The Show will feature the full range of the Island’s maritime community, from paddleboards and kayaks to luxury yachts and motor cruisers – as well as all the gadgets and services that enhance life in, on, or around the water. Visitors to the show will be able to look around many of the vessels on display.
There will be displays and demonstrations for those who enjoy being active on the water in Geomarine’s Outdoor & Active Zone, as well as stalls along Albert Pier. There will also be trips on the water, organised by Le Mourier. One of the highlights will be jet ski stunt displays by professional jet skier, Jack Moule.
The catering village on New North Quay is being sponsored by Camden Town Brewery and will extend as far as the Steam Clock. This area will not only feature some of the best food offerings but will also provide more public seating and the opportunity for visitors to pop to the Camden Town Bar and relax. The military village will move from the Steam Clock back to the Weighbridge.
The Kid Zone will be in Marina Gardens with an Adventure Islands theme and lots more for children to do, and the Solent Stevedores Main Stage will feature local talent in a packed entertainment schedule.
Jersey’s Harbourmaster, Captain Bill Sadler, said: “Over the years, the Barclays Jersey Boat Show has become a firm favourite in many people’s calendars, as there really is something for everyone. It showcases the very best of the Island’s maritime community to both residents and visitors.
“We’re delighted that Barclays is continuing to sponsor this Show, alongside our other sponsors, marine traders, exhibitors, and participants.”
Barclays Managing Director and Head of Crown Dependencies, Paul Savery, said: “We are thrilled to continue our sponsorship of the Barclays Jersey Boat Show. I am immensely proud of our longstanding support for this vibrant event, which not only attracts the local Channel Islands community, but draws participants from across the globe.
“Our commitment to the future prosperity of Jersey is resolute, and we see the Barclays Jersey Boat Show as a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best of our Island’s thriving maritime, leisure and tourism industries. With diverse exhibitors and activities for all ages on and off the water, it’s a celebration like no other. We hope to see you there.”