The British Marine Trades Association (BMTA) Awards Dinner returns for 2026, ushering in an exciting new chapter with a brand-new venue and a new time of year.
A highlight of the UK marine industry's social calendar, the BMTA Awards Dinner is a prestigious annual event that celebrates excellence across the sector. For more than 50 years, the awards have recognised outstanding individuals and businesses whose innovation, dedication and achievements have helped shape and strengthen the marine industry.
Bringing together professionals from across the marine community, the evening offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate success, reconnect with industry colleagues, strengthen business relationships and recognise the people and organisations driving our sector forward. The event is made possible thanks to the support of our valued sponsors Marine Welding and Inspection Services Ltd, Sedgwick International UK, Navigators & General, Neptune Marine Solutions and Barton Marine whose continued commitment helps us champion excellence and innovation throughout the marine industry.
Date: Monday 21 September, 2026
Location: voco Southampton by IHG
Time: 6:45 PM - 11:30 PM
For further information, please contact Beckie Harris at BHarris@britishmarine.co.uk
This year's Awards Dinner is particularly special as it will host the inaugural British Marine National Awards Ceremony.
Launched in November 2025, the British Marine Sector Awards recognise the exceptional businesses, products, services and sustainability initiatives shaping the future of the UK leisure marine industry. Over the past year, winners have been selected across 11 sector categories from around the country, highlighting the very best of British marine innovation and excellence.
These sector champions will now come together to compete for the highest honour of all – a British Marine National Award.
The Awards Dinner is open to both British Marine members and non-members and traditionally welcomes professionals and businesses from across the marine sector, including manufacturing, chandlery, wholesaling, distribution, marine services and supply chains, as well as industry associations and stakeholders.
Whether you're attending to support a finalist, celebrate industry achievements, network with colleagues, entertain clients or simply enjoy a memorable evening amongst the marine community, the British Marine Trades Association Awards Dinner 2026 promises to be a very special occasion.
Join us on Monday 21 September 2026, with doors opening at 6:45pm, at the newly renovated voco Southampton by IHG, a stylish waterfront venue providing the perfect setting for an evening of celebration, recognition and networking.
The evening will include:
There is no formal dress code. Guests typically choose smart business attire, lounge suits, cocktail dresses or occasion wear, creating a professional yet relaxed atmosphere.
A limited number of discounted bedrooms have also been secured at voco Southampton for attendees and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rates are £192 per room for single occupancy and £202 per room for double occupancy, both including breakfast. Reservations can be made directly with the hotel's reservations team.
To make a reservation, please contact the voco Southampton Reservations Team between 9:00am and 5:00pm, Monday to Friday:
📧 reservations@vcsouthampton.com
📞 02380 388142
Please note that all reservations must be guaranteed with a valid credit or debit card, including the card expiry date.
It was an outstanding event and a true celebration of the innovation, collaboration, and community spirit that make the marine industry so special. We were proud to support an evening that recognises such exceptional individuals and companies.
Alastair Clayton, Seaglaze Marine Windows on the BMTA Awards Dinner 2025​​​​​