Commercial Marine & Passenger Boat Conference 2026

Navigating Change: Safety, Sustainability & Innovation in Commercial and Passenger Boating

Charting the Future of the UK’s Commercial and Passenger Boating Sector

Join industry leaders, regulators, and innovators for a day of insight, collaboration, and inspiration at RNLI Headquarters, Poole, on Thursday 15 January 2026.

Hosted jointly by the British Marine Passenger Boat Association and the Commercial Marine Association, this conference brings together key voices from across the industry to explore the evolving landscape of safety, sustainability, and innovation.

What to Expect

A full day of learning, discussion, and connection in an inspiring maritime setting.

Arrival & Registration – 9:00am

Start your day with freshly brewed tea and coffee and a selection of warm buttery pastries while reconnecting with colleagues and peers.

Morning Speaker Sessions

Hear from leading authorities across the sector, including the MCA, Environment Agency, and British Marine Technical Team. Mid-morning refreshments, including artisan biscuits and cold drinks, will keep you energised throughout the sessions.

Lunch – Two-Course Fork Buffet

Enjoy a seasonally inspired menu featuring locally sourced dishes, vibrant salads, and indulgent desserts, designed to fuel engaging conversation and collaboration.

Afternoon – Exclusive RNLI HQ Tour

Take a behind-the-scenes look at the RNLI’s world-class facilities, complete with homemade cake and freshly brewed tea and coffee.

Networking Drinks Reception

Round off the day with relaxed networking drinks — the perfect opportunity to share ideas, make connections, and reflect on the discussions of the day.

Conference Highlights

Gain practical insight and updates from experts covering key topics shaping the industry today:

⚙️ Sport & Pleasure Vessel Code

📘 UK MER Register

🌱 Low Emission Engines & Alternative Fuels

🚢 Commercial Boat Shows

🛠️ Boat Checks & Safety Management

♻️ Sustainable Solutions for GRP

🔍 Surveys & Inspections

🧭 Technical Updates and Key Sector Priorities

Tickets

Your ticket includes all refreshments, lunch, and the networking drinks reception.

British Marine Members: £65 + VAT*
Non-Members: £115 + VAT*

Tickets are available to purchase securely via Eventbrite.
*Eventbrite booking fees apply.

Get your ticket here👉 Tickets

A portion of proceeds supports the RNLI and its vital life-saving work.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Stand out and show your commitment to the future of the marine industry.

Sponsors benefit from:

Prominent brand exposure across event materials and on-site signage
Recognition in pre- and post-event communications
Alignment with a national conversation around innovation, safety, and sustainability

To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lisa Jupp at ljupp@britishmarine.co.uk

Parking

There is limited free parking available on site available on the day on a first come, first served basis. There are also local pay & display car parks within walking distance of the College. You can book a guaranteed space in advance for the RNLI Poole Lifeboat Station via JustPark.

Accommodation

There are 20 rooms reserved for 14th January 2026, and 10 rooms for 15th January 2026, on a B&B basis. These rooms are reserved until 14th December 2025. Single room is £105/night. Double room is £115/night. Please contact Jo direct at RNLI via corporate_events@rnli.org.uk to book your room.