The Cruising Association (CA) enjoyed an outstanding presence at Southampton International Boat Show, 15-24 September 2023, expanding our global cruising community with an impressive surge in members.

Over 110 new members took the opportunity to join the CA’s 6,400+ strong membership, spanning all ages and experiences levels. From those taking their first steps into sail and motor cruising to young families to weekend and holiday cruisers or those now retired and planning to spend more time on the water. The CA welcomed all and offered a wealth of knowledge and support no matter members’ cruising plans or destinations.

“I am delighted with the success that the Cruising Association has enjoyed and thrilled at the turnout and high number of visitors to our stand,” commented Lucy Gray, CA Chief Operating Officer. “The high level of interest in the diverse range of services, expert advice and member benefits offered by the CA has been remarkable, and the enthusiastic audiences attending our talks on the Foredeck Stage stand are testament to that success.”

Expertise at your fingertips

Members and visitors had numerous reasons to visit the CA Stand, with plenty of opportunities to tap into the CA’s unrivalled range of knowledge

CAptain’s Mate, the CA’s unique digital cruising app remained as popular as ever, whilst our talks on ‘Channel Crossing Procedures’, ‘In conversation with Jeanne Socrates’, and ‘Orca and yachts’ on the main Foredeck Stage showcased CA’s technical know-how and expertise.

Information about the CA’s various Cruising and Local Sections, upcoming lectures and events were well received, and the Crewing Service showcased plenty of opportunities around the world.

The debut of the 2024 edition of the CA Cruising Almanac generated significant attention and sales. Trusted as the go-to on board reference for sail and motor cruisers, the Cruising Almanac provides comprehensive information for cruising in NW Europe. The 2024 Cruising Almanac is available to buy at £25 for members / £35 for non-members, plus postage.

Prize extravaganza

The CA presented an impressive array of prizes in affiliation with our marine partners, including a show prize from Icom and a daily prize of a 1-year Navionics subscription for new members, attracting well over 400 entries.

The hot ticket to win a TEMO-450 Electric Outboard Engine donated by Marine Products Direct opened on 15 September. Worth £1,679, the members’ Big Winter Prize also includes a kill cord, transom fitting, bag and buoyancy float.

Social hub

The CA’s commitment to connecting, sharing knowledge and building relationships was evident in the fabulous atmosphere on the CA stand as sail and motor cruisers enjoyed catching up. Our new morning tea/coffee was a hit to kickstart each day, while the CA Happy Hour was a favourite wind-down.

Boat Show membership offer extended

The CA is extending its membership discount until midnight on Sunday 8 October 2023. Join online with the code SIBS2023 in the ‘Promotional Code’ field to enjoy a 20% discount on your first year, making membership just £124 for up to two household members when paying by Direct Debit.

Find out more at www.theca.org.uk/public/benefits.

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