Southampton is a historic maritime hub on the UK’s South Coast, which has never lost its appeal or relevance in the country’s maritime landscape. In fact, Southampton has one of the most active boating industries in the UK and holds the title of the UK’s busiest cruise port. A total of 3,000 businesses keep 40,000 people employed in the industry and there’s a lot more potential for growth in the future. The maritime sector generates £5.8 billion for the South Hampshire economy and overall supports 152,000 other jobs and £2.5 billion in wages and salaries. The UK’s marine and maritime sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy as it contributes £47 billion GVA and employs half a million individuals. Projections indicate that by 2030, the global 'blue economy' will soar to £3.2 trillion. Hampshire stands at the forefront of this maritime boom. At the core of Southampton’s maritime ecosystem beats a heart of innovation, revered worldwide for its pursuit of constant evolution. With three universities boasting specialized marine capabilities, Southampton has positioned itself perfectly as a driver of advancements in maritime technologies. The National Oceanography Centre leads the charge in oceanographic research, while universities such as Southampton, Portsmouth and Solent drive cutting-edge advancements that better equip the next generation of talent to lead the industry better in the future. Southampton also leads when it comes boat production. The city has built a reputation for top-tier leisure marine and superyacht designs. A reputation that’s been heard around the globe and has only added to the mythology of the UK as a competitive force in vessel design and construction. Renowned for crafting vessels coveted worldwide, Southampton’s engineers play a pivotal role in shaping the international maritime landscape with their creations traversing waters far beyond British shores.