On the water goes live

The British Marine Federation, the trade association for the leisure, small commercial and superyacht sectors of the UK marine industry, is launching its new project On The Water at the 2010 Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show.

Over five years, it will aim to raise the awareness of boating, breakdown the barriers to entry and, most importantly, encourage regular participation in boating.  Ultimately the goal is to increase the number of active boating participants, currently there are around 3.2 million people each year that get on the water, across a range of boating activities from kayaking to sailing to inland boating.

The campaign will launch at the Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show with a presence on the Deck Games area in the North Hall.  This will be supported by marketing, PR and events throughout the year which will all be aimed at helping people make their boating decisions and getting on the water.  The ultimate resource will be a consumer website http://www.onthewater.co.uk/ which includes ideas to get on the water and advice about buying a boat and also promotes BMF members. 

BMF Marketing Manager, Hayley James, who is leading the project said: “As part of its service to the industry the BMF has a role to play in the promotion of boating.  With On The Water we aim to inspire people to go boating more regularly and, importantly, provide them with the information, resources, advice and ideas they need to achieve this. 

“People love the anticipation and excitement of boating but it’s the active lifestyle combined with the relaxation and escapism that keeps them coming back.  Through On The Water we need to show that there are many forms of boating and there’s something for everyone, whether it’s an adrenaline pumped race through a rapid kayak course or a slow Sunday meander up the river.

“People’s personal time is under pressure from work, family and social commitments so it’s important that we spend it wisely – living healthy lives whilst relaxing with the people we love.  Boating is the most relaxing leisure pursuit which gets you outside and active in the most dramatic landscapes, where you can enjoy magical times with friends and family.  By visiting http://www.onthewater.co.uk/ or one of our branded events people should get enough enthusiasm to have a go themselves and take boating up for life.

For more information please contact Rebecca Jackson or Becky Hester on 01784 223627 or email rjackson@britishmarine.co.uk or rhester@britishmarine.co.uk.