Seawork, the commercial marine industry exhibition and conference (ABP Port of Southampton UK, 25-27 June 2013; www.seawork.com), has expanded into a third hall, due to increased demand for stands from exhibitors.
At the close of 2012, Hall A was completely sold out, with Hall B set to follow close on its heels. The unique combination of exhibition stands, quayside and pontoons for vessels consistently attracts over 6,500 thousand marine professionals from around the world and is set to achieve further growth in its 16th year.
Managing Director of organisers Mercator Media, Andrew Webster, says: “Despite austerity measures across the world, the commercial marine industry, through necessity, continues to go about its business. Being a part of Seawork is now regarded as essential by exhibitors and visitors alike, as it makes sound commercial sense to take advantage of the industry being in one place at one time.”
Global Appeal
Among those exhibitors making their Seawork débuts from overseas in 2013 are Nico Craft LLC of Dubai, Maretron LLP and HydroComp from the USA and Humphree of Sweden. They will join long-term international exhibitors at Seawork such as Abeking & Rasmussen, Austal, Damen Shipyards and Ravestein.
Tohatsu Outboards, which celebrates 80 years of production in 2013, will be at Seawork with new, low HP models and a range extending to 115hp and the Italian company AS di Vito Labruna e C. sas will feature its diesel range.
Seawork honours the RIB @ 50
2013 marks the 50th anniversary of the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) and Seawork has also been chosen for the launch of industry aficionado Dag Pike’s new publication The Complete RIB Manual.
Already an important part of Seawork - with RIBs on the pontoons and over 35 companies taking part in the RIBWork Trail - Seawork’s RIB @ 50 feature will bring an extra dimension to the event, with stands and vessels paying homage to the past and looking to future developments in reliability, economy, safety and functionality.
Seawork 2013 will have the largest ever number of commercial RIBs on display plus all the related technologies and products, including manufacture, propulsion, steering, seating, clothing and communications.
In a graphic representation of past and present, Zodiac MilPro will display a 4m Avon Searider from the early ‘70s, which still runs well with the original 50hp Mercury outboard, and a recent 9.4m Zodiac Hurricane MACH II RIB on berth 17 at Seawork.
UK Ministry of Defence at Seawork
The Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) team from the UK Ministry of Defence, responsible for the procurement and management of all boats and small craft under 30 metres, is planning to attend Seawork again in 2013. Over the years, the MoD DE&S team has established Seawork as its annual opportunity to meet the industry, both from the UK and overseas. While the focus is on hull design and construction, staff responsible for engines and equipment will also be present. The MoD will once again present its new procurement program at the Seawork Conference.
New on-site venue for Seawork Conference
It has been confirmed that the 176m Royal Fleet Auxiliary RFA Lyme Bay will be alongside the Seawork quay, providing valuable on-site conference facilities and a visual spectacle. Access to the ship will be direct from the Seawork quayside, making it convenient and time-efficient for exhibitors and visitors.
Conference Program HIghlights
The Seawork conference program will include a workshop to present and discuss the findings of a research project to understand how smaller ports can diversify activities and enhance future viability.
This project, funded through the Interreg IV EU programme, considers the role of ports within their wider economic and social communities and develops a port-centric approach to regional regeneration. The workshop is targeted at port authorities, local authorities and shipping related businesses. It will show how a holistic port-centric approach involving all stakeholders in a port’s operations working together towards a common strategic goal can increase value to all.
Other topical subjects covered by the Seawork 2013 conference will include a forum on Health & Safety issues arising from Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), chaired by expert Dag Pike and a session on The Motorways of the Sea identifying four major routes across Europe.