Crick Boat Show returns as the boating season gets underway

Crick Boat Show 2024 © Canal & River Trust

The 2026 Crick Boat Show, sponsored by Haven Knox-Johnston, returns to Crick Marina 22-25 May, bringing together boaters, prospective buyers and the wider waterways community for four days at the start of the boating season.

Peter Johns, Publisher of Waterways World and Show Director, says: "For many, Crick Boat Show marks the point where the year properly begins on the water. It offers the chance to see a wide range of new and second-hand boats in one place, meet the people who build and sell them, and catch up with others from across the waterways.

"For those thinking about buying a boat, Crick is one of the most useful places to start. Being able to step aboard different boats, compare layouts and talk directly to builders and brokers can quickly turn a vague idea into something more concrete. It is equally relevant for existing boat owners - whether considering a change of boat, planning improvements, or simply wanting to see what is out there.

"The Show also provides access to the wider services involved in boat ownership, including insurance, finance and equipment suppliers, making it a practical place to ask questions and gather information in one visit."

What's on at Crick Boat Show 2026:

A strong focus on practical boating

A full programme of seminars and masterclasses runs throughout the Show, offering straightforward advice on the realities of owning and running a boat. The seminar programme, led by Waterways World Technical Editor Mark Langley, covers key topics such as: living afloat; buying a boat; boat maintenance; cost-saving ideas; electric conversions; and refitting existing boats.

Alongside this, masterclasses delivered by industry specialists, will look at more specific areas including electric boating systems, onboard connectivity and sanitation options, as well as sessions from the Canal & River Trust on legacy funding and major infrastructure projects.

Two headline sessions addressing the broader context in which the waterways operate

On Saturday 23 May at 3pm in the Seminar Marquee there will be a panel discussion with waterways experts examining 'The Challenges and Opportunities Facing the Waterways', chaired by Paul Knox-Johnston of Show sponsors Haven Knox-Johnston.

On Sunday 24 May at 3pm Peter Johns, Show Director will explore with Campbell Robb, Chief Executive of Canal & River Trust, the leadership of the network at a time of changing funding arrangements.

Getting on the water

For those new to boating—or returning after time away—the Show's boat handling taster sessions provide a practical introduction. Led by RYA-accredited instructors, these two-hour sessions cover: casting off and mooring; rope handling; boat etiquette; and lock navigation. The sessions cost £49 per person and must be booked in advance.

Time to talk: Trade & Preview Day The Show opens with its Trade & Preview Day on Friday 22 May, for advanced ticket holders only. Trade & Preview Day offers a quieter environment for more in-depth conversations with builders, brokers and suppliers.

Speak to the Canal & River Trust's boating team

Members of the national canal charity's boating team will be available to speak to about boat licensing, moorings, accessible boating and the Trust's Better Boating Plan in the Canal & River Trust Marquee.

A community event as much as a show

Alongside the technical and practical content, Crick Boat Show remains an important social gathering for the waterways community. The Crick Boat Show Music Festival, sponsored by Vetus, will feature live acts performing across the three days in the Real Ale Bar sponsored by LeeSan, with evening entertainment running from 7.30pm to 11.30pm from Friday through to Sunday.

Headlining on Saturday evening will be 'T.Rextasy', the world's only 'official' tribute to Marc Bolan, performing with Marc Bolan's son, Rolan. Supporting 'T.Rextasy on Saturday will be 'Slady' - the world's only all-female 'Slade' tribute band.

On Sunday evening, 'One Step Behind', the UK's premier 'Madness' tribute band will take to the stage.

Ticket Information

For Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May, adult tickets are £21.00 on the gate or £18.90 in advance. On Monday 25 May, adult tickets are £16.00 on the gate or £14.40 in advance. Entry for children aged 16 and under is free on the public days. Three-day adult tickets are £47.00 on the gate or £42.30 in advance. Parking is free.

Tickets for the Trade & Preview Day on Friday 22 May are available only in advance at £30.00 each and include a gift bag and a complimentary hot drink.

Camping pitches start from £56.00 per night for a 6m x 6m pitch, with visitor moorings available from £1.37 per foot.

For tickets, camping and moorings, visit www.crickboatshow.com or call 01283 742970 (Monday-Thursday, 9am-3pm).