Proudly hosting the first-ever British Marine National Awards Ceremony

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.

🌟 A Landmark Year for the Awards

This year's event is particularly significant as it will host the inaugural British Marine National Awards Ceremony.

The British Marine Sector Awards were launched in November 2025 to 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 at the Awards Dinner to compete for the highest honour of all – a British Marine National Award.

The evening will therefore not only celebrate the achievements of the marine trades community, but also showcase and recognise excellence from across the wider UK marine industry.

🍾 What to Expect

Guests can look forward to an evening of celebration, networking and entertainment, including:

🏆 Presentation of nine awards, comprising:

Six British Marine Trades Association Awards

Three British Marine National Awards

🥂 A welcome drink on arrival, included in your ticket price

🤝 Pre-dinner networking with industry colleagues, clients and friends

🍽️ A delicious three-course dinner

🍷 Wine served on the tables

🎤 A keynote address from former Royal Marine Alex Krol, associated with the Invictus Games

📸 Professional event photography throughout the evening

🍸 Cash bar available

👔 Dress Code

There is no formal dress code for the Awards Dinner.

Guests typically choose to wear smart business attire, lounge suits, jackets, cocktail dresses and occasion wear, creating a professional yet relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're attending with colleagues, clients or friends, we encourage you to dress in whatever makes you feel comfortable while reflecting the celebratory nature of the evening.

A tuxedo isn't required, but if you enjoy dressing up for a special occasion, this is certainly an event where you'll fit right in.

👥 Who Can Attend?

The Awards Dinner is open to both British Marine members and non-members, with British Marine members benefiting from a discounted ticket rate as part of their membership benefits.

The event has traditionally welcomed professionals, businesses and stakeholders from across the UK marine industry, particularly those involved in:

⚓ Manufacturing

⚓ Chandlery

⚓ Wholesaling

⚓ Distribution

⚓ Marine services and supply chains

⚓ Industry associations and stakeholders

Guests are also encouraged to bring colleagues, clients, customers and business partners, making the evening an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships while celebrating the achievements of our industry.

📅 Event Details

Date: Monday 21 September 2026

Time: Doors open at 6:45pm

📍 Venue

For the first time, the Awards Dinner will be held at the newly renovated:

voco Southampton by IHG

This stylish waterfront venue provides the perfect setting for an evening of celebration, recognition and networking.

🛏️ Accommodation

A limited number of discounted bedrooms have been secured at the hotel for Awards Dinner attendees and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The room rates are £192.00 per room for single occupancy and £202.00 per room for double occupancy, both with breakfast included.

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.

🎉 Join Us

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 A

Description supplied by the event organiser.