Marine

Plymouth: A Leading Destination for Marine Conferences

Plymouth’s marine industry is at the heart of the city’s economy and is one of its greatest assets when attracting marine conferences, maritime events and ocean-focused business meetings. The city is a global centre of excellence for marine science and technology, with the combined marine and defence sector supporting almost 20,000 full-time employees and generating more than £1.2 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA). In 2025, Plymouth was officially recognised as the UK’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy, strengthening its position at the forefront of marine technology, autonomous vessels, ocean science and innovation.

This unique concentration of businesses, research organisations and specialist expertise gives Plymouth a compelling proposition for attracting national and international marine conferences. Organisations can bring delegates to a destination where the subjects being discussed are actively being researched, tested and developed – from marine autonomy and clean propulsion to digital ocean technologies and offshore renewable energy. Plymouth’s Smart Sound testbed, Oceansgate, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Marine Biological Association and University of Plymouth provide opportunities for conferences to connect directly with industry, academia and real-world innovation.

To attract more marine conferences, Plymouth can build on this unique industry cluster by positioning itself as a “living laboratory” for the future of the ocean, developing conference packages that combine high-quality venues with site visits, demonstrations, networking opportunities and hands-on experiences. By connecting event organisers with local businesses, researchers and marine technology specialists, Meet Plymouth can offer something beyond a traditional conference – giving delegates the opportunity to experience Plymouth’s marine expertise first-hand while enjoying the city’s spectacular waterfront setting.