Step aboard the iconic Dixie Queen paddlesteamer for the British Marine Passenger Boat & Commercial Marine Conference 2027 and join fellow professionals from across both sectors for a day of industry updates, expert speakers, networking and discussion — all set against the unique backdrop of the River Thames.
Hosted by the British Marine Passenger Boat and Commercial Marine Associations, this conference is an opportunity to hear about the latest developments affecting the industry, exchange ideas with colleagues and build valuable connections, while enjoying a memorable day aboard one of London's best-known vessels.
What Your Day Includes
Your conference ticket includes a full programme of content, networking and hospitality, including:
Connect, Share and Look Ahead
The conference is designed to provide more than just presentations. It is a chance to step away from the day-to-day, meet fellow members and industry colleagues, exchange experiences and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
From the latest developments and British Marine updates to informal conversations over lunch and drinks, the day provides plenty of opportunities to make new connections and strengthen existing relationships.
And what better way to round off the event than with a cruise beneath Tower Bridge, taking in one of London's most recognisable landmarks from the water?
Hear from British Marine's New CEO
A key feature of the conference will be the opportunity to hear from British Marine's new CEO, Earle Stanner, who will outline their vision for the organisation, future plans and priorities, as well as highlighting recent successes and achievements delivered for members.
The programme will also feature sector updates, expert speakers and opportunities to discuss the issues and opportunities currently shaping the Passenger Boat and Commercial Marine industries.
A full conference programme and speaker line-up will be announced in due course.
Tickets are £85 + VAT for British Marine members and £135 + VAT for non-members.
09.00 - 09.30: Registration & Refreshments
09.30 - 09.40: Welcome & Opening Remarks - Stuart Morris, Director of ICOP
09.40 - 09.50: Ministerial Address - Keir Mather, Minister for Shipping & Inland
09.50 - 10.35: Workboat Code 3 and Sport & Pleasure Vessel Code Panel - New Code Vessel Team Leas, MCA, Representative from TMS, Representative from BM Access to Boating, Ed Tuite, Technical Director at British Marine
10.35 - 10.50: Morning Break - Refreshments Available
10.50 - 11.10: Boatmasters Licence Review - Harry Deans, Maritime & Coastguard Agency
11.10 - 11.35: Business Rates Relief - Kit Rabbette, Director of Rabbette Chartered Surveyors
11.35 - 11.50: Innovation & Infrastructure Updates - Adam Layer, Harbour Master at Port of London Authority
11.50 - 12.10: Digital Twinning - John Peacock, Director of St Agnes Boating
12.10 - 12.30: Weddings on Board - Stuart Morris, Director of ICOP
12.30 - 13.35: Networking Lunch - 2-course hot lunch
13.35 - 14.00: Risk Management & Strategies for Growth - Joe Barnard, Clegg Gifford
14.00 - 14.15: Afternoon Break - Refreshments Available
14.15 - 14.30: Passenger Boat & Commercial Marine Associations Sector Awards Presentations / Closing Remarks
14.30 - 16.00: Networking Drinks & Cruise on the Thames under an open Tower Bridge and back to Butlers Wharf
Who Should Attend?
The conference is aimed at professionals working across the Passenger Boat and Commercial Marine sectors, including:
Whether you are an established industry professional or looking to expand your knowledge and network, this event offers an excellent opportunity to connect with the wider marine community.
Date: Wednesday 20 January 2027
Time: 09.00 - 16.00
Venue: Dixie Queen, Butler's Wharf, London
Book Your Place
This is a ticketed event, and places are expected to be in demand.
Don't miss your opportunity to join us aboard the Dixie Queen for a unique day of industry updates, networking, great food and a cruise along the Thames.
Book your place here:
Tickets & Registration
Please contact:
General Enquiries & Speakers - Lisa Jupp
Sponsorship Opportunities - Nickie Sanders
British Marine
C-Quip Ltd
Fireboy-Xintex UK Operations Ltd
Houston Casualty Company London
International College of Professional Celebrants
Maritime & Coastguard Agency
Deputy Head of Marine Safety (Government)
Minister of Shipping
Port of London Authority
ProMarine UW Ltd
Seaglaze Marine Windows Ltd
Tokio Marine HCC
Wave International Ltd
You & Sea Ltd