The 2026 British Ports Association (BPA) Annual Conference and Exhibition will take place on 21 and 22 October 2026 and will be hosted by the Port of Dover.
As one of the key events in the national maritime industry calendar, BPA 2026 will provide a unique opportunity for stakeholders to come together to meet and do business, discuss the latest policy developments, debate topical issues and shape future industry trends within the UK ports and harbours sector.
The Port of Dover, situated on England’s southeastern coast at one of the narrowest points of the English Channel, has long played an important role in Britain’s maritime story. From 19th century engineering innovation, the port is now a 21st-century hub for freight, ferry and cruise operations and a vital hub for UK logistics, tourism and international trade.
The conference, exhibition and two of the three social events that make up the BPA 2026 programme will be held within the port’s Cruise Terminal One. The historic terminal building, refurbished three decades ago to service the port’s growing cruise business, will be transformed into a spectacular conference theatre, exhibition hall and evening event venue for the duration of the event.
Cruise Terminal One will also host the official Welcome Reception on Tuesday 20 October. The terminal is a short coach transfer from the Dover Marina Hotel, which is one of the three official BPA 2026 hotels, as well as the town’s Maison Dieu – venue for the ‘Dover Soul’ social event on the Wednesday evening. All venues will be served by a complimentary delegate shuttle service throughout the event.
Further information about BPA 2026 can be found on the pages of this website, or by contacting our event team directly at BPAconference@freshwater.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you to Dover in October.
Richard Ballantyne OBE, Chief Executive, British Ports Association
Doug Bannister, CEO of the Port of Dover and Chair, British Ports Association
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More on: British Ports Association
Contact us: BPAconference@freshwater.co.uk
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