OUTDOORS INDOORS - London Boat Show

6 BOAT SHOW NEWS
EXHIBITOR
ATTRACTIONS
THROUGHOUT THE WEEK we will be looking at how some of you have
embraced the concept of interactive visitor attractions and laid on the
sort of experience the visitors have been asking for.
RS SAILING
The Sailing Master sailing simulator on the RS stand has been a huge hit,
especially with the kids. This simple looking, but sophisticated, simulator is
very versatile, as it possible to use almost any dinghy, which then heels
and turns just as the boat would on the water when hit by the wind from
the large fan. RS say that there is a side benefit to having the device on
their stand, as it is great at occupying children whilst their parents
enquire about a new boat!
HARKEN
The Harken stand is a hive of interactivity this year, with on-demand
demonstrations of winch and block maintenance as well as touchscreens
giving product demonstrations and servicing information.
This stand is a development of their stands at the last London and
Southampton Shows, with more features added and demonstrations
perfected. Harken say that having interactivity on their stand has
really helped them sell their products.
SCHOOLS
MARINE
CHALLENGE
THE FINALS OF the Schools Marine Challenge, wherein schools compete
to make the fastest solar-powered model boat, took place yesterday,
and was won by Wilmington Academy. They signed up to the challenge
just a few weeks ago, and had simple, but effective boats, which got
them the fastest time on the day.
Astley Sports College came all the way from Cheshire for the challenge,
showing a fantastic commitment to the event. Both Leigh Academy and
Wilmington are doing Formula Sun within the curriculum as a BTec
qualification. Formula Sun is not just about getting the fastest time but about
learning whilst students do it. Knockhall Community Primary School brought
50 pupils along. They were very enthusiastic competitors, making a strong
impression on the leader board.
Overall 11 schools attended, with over 220 pupils. A very strong turnout for
our first official race day. We look forward to next year!
RESULTS
1ST Wilmington Academy 14.39sec
2ND The Leigh Technology Academy 18.31sec
3RD Haberdashers Aske Hatcham College 18.60sec