Get ready for the flagship gathering of the inland waterways sector at the British Marine Inland Conference 2026!

From Lecture Hall to Lock Gate: Charting the Future of Inland Boating

Join us at the British Marine Inland Conference 2026 for a day of expert insight, industry updates, networking and celebration, all set within the impressive surroundings of Mitchell Hall at Cranfield University.

Whether you're looking to stay ahead of industry developments, build valuable connections or gain practical knowledge to support your business, this is the must-attend event for the inland waterways sector.

What to Expect

The day begins at 9.00am with registration, refreshments and breakfast pastries before a full programme of engaging presentations and discussions from leading voices across the inland marine industry.

Conference Highlights

Industry Leaders: Hear from senior representatives from all the major Navigation Authorities, including the Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency, Broads Authority and Scottish Canals, alongside British Marine.

Expert Insights: Enjoy a wide-ranging programme of presentations covering the key issues, opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the inland waterways sector.

Lunchtime Surgeries: Take advantage of one-to-one sessions with British Marine's Technical Director and Public Affairs Lead during the networking lunch to discuss the topics that matter most to your business.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with colleagues, industry experts and fellow delegates throughout the day.

For full details of the agenda* and speaker line-up, please see the relevant sections below.

Continue the Conversation

The conference concludes at 4.15pm, followed by a networking drinks reception—an excellent opportunity to continue conversations and strengthen industry connections.

The evening then moves into our Gala Dinner, where delegates will enjoy a delicious three-course meal before rounding off the day with fantastic entertainment.

Tickets

Conference tickets are just £115 + VAT for British Marine members and include:

Breakfast pastries, refreshments and lunch

Full access to the conference programme

Networking drinks reception

Three-course Gala Dinner

Evening entertainment

Non-member tickets are available for £185 + VAT, making this an excellent opportunity to experience one of the inland marine sector's leading annual events.

Please note that Eventbrite booking fees apply at checkout.

Accommodation

Make the most of your visit by staying overnight at Cranfield University. On-site 3-star and 4-star accommodation is available from £92 per night at Mitchell Hall to £113 per night at CMDC (bed and breakfast).

Details on how to book at the exclusive Conference Delegate rate can be found in the FAQs below.

We Look Forward to Welcoming You

If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Jupp at ljupp@britishmarine.co.uk or call 07860 848835.

The British Marine Inland Conference 2026 is proudly sponsored by

Headline Sponsor - Haven Knox-Johnston

Supporting Sponsor - EP Barrus, Waterways Holidays, Lee Sanitation Ltd, Lalizas UK Ltd

Exhibition Space Sponsor - Metpow

To find out more about our available sponsorship opportunities, please contact Nickie Sanders at nsanders@britishmarine.co.uk

*Programme subject to change.

Network with delegates from the below companies on the day:

ABC Leisure Group

Aquavista Watersides Ltd

Aqueduct Marina

Boyde Marine Ltd

British Marine

Crafted Boats Ltd

E P Barrus Ltd

Galleon Marine Boatyard LLP

Haven Knox-Johnston

Haven Knox-Johnston Commercial

Northampton Marina

Overwater Marina

Rabbette Chartered Surveyors

Savills (UK) Ltd

Sedgwick International UK

Tingdene Marinas Ltd

Vail Williams LLP

Viking Systems Ltd (Harbour Assist)

Wave International Ltd

Description supplied by the event organiser.