Inland and Coastal is returning to the Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS) this year to highlight the extraordinary potential of the humble pontoon, proving that simple yet innovative adaptations can create ecological benefits that go beyond mooring a boat.
Taking place from 18th to 27th September, Inland and Coastal will join The Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) on stand H208 in the New Wave Hall at this year’s show. The team will highlight the growing diversity of applications for marina infrastructure, from supporting marine biodiversity through its oyster reef pontoon and Living Seawalls panels to enhancing durability with its hard-wearing GRC decking.
The pontoon manufacturer will also once again sponsor the daily exhibitor drinks at the TYHA stand, along with daily hub talks on a variety of topics, creating an informal space for marina professionals and the wider boating community. Inland and Coastal will host its own hub talk on Tuesday 22nd September, focusing on how innovative pontoon design can help marinas deliver greater value from their waterfront infrastructure.
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One of the key features will be its oyster pontoon, developed on behalf of Ulster Wildlife to provide a floating platform for native oyster reef restoration. The system demonstrates how pontoon infrastructure can be adapted to contribute positively to the marine environment, creating additional habitat while continuing to perform its core function.
The same approach to multifunctional marina infrastructure extends to Living Seawalls panels, which can be incorporated into harbour walls to create a haven for invertebrates, seaweeds, small fish and other marine fauna.
Together, these solutions demonstrate how marina infrastructure can play a role in supporting biodiversity alongside its practical uses within ports and harbours, without compromising on its original function.
Inland and Coastal will also be showcasing its Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete (GRC) pontoon decking option. Designed to withstand the demanding conditions found in marine environments, GRC decking provides a durable, low-maintenance surface with excellent resistance to wear, helping marinas create infrastructure that is built to perform over the long term.
“Pontoons have traditionally been viewed primarily as infrastructure for accessing and mooring boats, but there is so much more that can be achieved with a well-designed system,” says Jon Challis, Head of Business Development at Inland and Coastal. “From supporting oyster reef restoration and creating additional marine habitat to providing a highly durable surface that can withstand the demands of a busy marina, we’re increasingly seeing opportunities to make waterfront infrastructure work harder. SIBS is a great opportunity to demonstrate what is possible and talk to customers about how these ideas could work within their own projects.”
Throughout the show, the Inland and Coastal team will be on hand to discuss a wide range of projects, from marina expansions and new developments to the addition of Living Seawalls panels and upgrades to existing pontoon systems.
Visitors to the stand will also be invited to enjoy a cold Guinness at Inland and Coastal’s GRC bar while discussing their pontoon requirements with the team.
With more than 20 years’ experience, Inland and Coastal continues to design and supply pontoons, gangways and water access systems for marinas, harbours and inland waterways. Its approach combines robust engineering with practical solutions that respond to the changing needs of waterfront environments.
To arrange a meeting with the team during the show, contact [email protected].
For more information on Inland and Coastal’s full range of marina systems and access solutions, visitwww.inlandandcoastal.com.
