In response to the fatal RIB accident last year at the Southampton Boat Show, National Boat Shows have announced new regulations governing boat demonstrations. The accident happened when the driver of a demonstration RIB and two passengers were thrown from the boat. One of the passengers, Tristan Douglas-Johnson, 20, who worked for Kingfisher Marine, was hit by the out-of control RIB as it circled in the water, and later died of his injuries.

NBS, the organisers of the show have set the minimum level of qualification for helmsmen of demo boats at RYA Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent, plus similar qualification levels for yachts and dinghies. They have stressed that they will not be discouraging exhibitors from carrying out demonstrations, particularly as the main attraction of Southampton as a venue is that it is on the water and it would be a pity not to take full advantage of the fact. They are simply keen to do their utmost to prevent a re-occurrence of last year’s tragedy.