Southampton Boat Show: How Digitalization is Shaping the Future of Boating
- Zeth Roslund
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
Last week at the Southampton International Boat Show, Henrietta from MOXSEA had the privilege of both pitching and participating in a forward-looking panel discussion about the future of the leisure marine industry. The pitch and panel were kindly hosted by Boatfolk and Yachting Ventures. It was an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry leaders and share our vision alongside fellow panelists: Andrew Cowen from ExpeditionZero | Greg Johns from Everyblu | Gregory Edwards from Hooper Quinn.
Beyond the panel, the MOXSEA Team had several insightful meetings with leading boat clubs, including Beyonder, Pure Latitude, Lymington Boat Club, RIB Shack Marine, and MEROS. These companies are all at the forefront of the modern boating movement, offering access to a boat fleet via a membership or co-ownership model. It was clear from these discussions that the UK is a global leader in the marine sharing economy, paving the way for a more accessible and flexible future on the water.
The conversation at the boat show highlighted some of the most significant shifts happening in the marine industry today, and how we at MOXSEA are right at the heart of them.
The Biggest Shift: From Ownership to Digital Access
The panel was united; the leisure marine industry is undergoing a major transformation, moving away from traditional, ownership-driven models towards digital, access-driven solutions. Much like the changes we've seen in mobility and travel, boating is now embracing platforms for sharing, subscriptions, and on-demand access. This shift is also being fuelled by the growing focus on sustainability and the need to professionalise operations with modern tools.
Where MOXSEA fits in
We are a key enabler of this transition, empowering marinas, boat clubs, and entrepreneurs to build lean, digital-first boat club and boat-sharing businesses that meet modern demands.
The New Generation of Boaters: Experience Over Ownership
A core part of the discussion focused on how younger generations are not engaging with the water in the same way that older generations did before, and how we can attract them moving forward. The consensus was clear: they value flexibility and unique experiences far more than they do traditional boat ownership. They are reluctant to tie up capital in an asset that sits idle for much of the year. Instead, they want frictionless, on-demand access to the water, with an emphasis on sustainable options.
Where MOXSEA fits in
We understand that younger generations are experience seekers. Our platform makes it possible for them to get on the water with a single click, fulfilling their desire for spontaneous and flexible access without the burdens of ownership.
The Evolving Role of Marinas
We discussed the critical role marinas play in this changing landscape. They are no longer just parking lots for boats; they are the gateways to the water and must evolve into true experience hubs. Marinas have an opportunity to lead the industry by adopting electrification infrastructure, embracing digital tools, and collaborating with platforms like MOXSEA to make boating more inclusive and flexible for everyone.
Where MOXSEA fits in
We believe a marina's future lies in becoming an ecosystem enabler, a place where new generations can easily discover boating. We help marinas make that transformation.
Investing in a Resilient Marine Ecosystem
When asked about where investment should flow, the panel emphasised digital platforms, sustainability technologies, and community-building. Investing in digitalisation is crucial to lowering barriers to entry, reducing friction, and professionalising operators. Similarly, investments in electric fleets and charging infrastructure are essential for a sustainable future.
Where MOXSEA fits in
Investing in digitalisation pays off across the entire value chain. It makes fleets more efficient, lowers operational costs, and significantly improves the customer experience, ultimately attracting more capital into the boating industry.
Hope vs. Fear for the Next Decade
The final point of discussion was a look into the next decade. The hope is that boating becomes more accessible, sustainable, and digitally connected, welcoming new generations and growing beyond its traditional base. The fear is that if the industry resists change, it risks shrinking into an exclusive niche, losing relevance, and becoming like an aging, declining sport.
Where MOXSEA fits in
Our mission is to make boating as accessible as any click-and-go platform. By embracing digital transformation and focusing on the modern boater, we can ensure the industry thrives for years to come.
It was an inspiring discussion, and it reinforced our belief that MOXSEA is not just building a product; we are helping to develop the future of boating.
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