Southampton International Boat Show gets under way

A 10-day celebration of everything from multi-million-pound superyachts to paddleboards is under way as the 57th Southampton International Boat Show opens its doors.

Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the event, which runs until 27 September at the city's Mayflower Park and marina.

Organisers say the show features Europe's largest purpose-built show marina, with more than 500 boats and watercraft on display and opportunities for visitors to step aboard selected vessels.

As well as showcasing the latest in marine leisure and technology, the event offers a range of on-the-water experiences, including kayaking, paddleboarding and diving sessions.

The Dorset-built Sunseeker 90 Ocean will be the largest boat at this year's show, measuring 27.1m in length.

Alongside it will be a paddleboard from Rockley Watersports, which runs the show's purpose-built lake for watersports.

Earle Stanner, chief executive of British Marine and owner and organiser of the show, said: "Whether you have spent a lifetime on the water or have never stepped aboard a boat before, there is so much to see, try and discover."

Spitfire flypasts are scheduled across the opening weekend, as well as live music and entertainment.

More than 110 talks, workshops and demonstrations will also take place throughout the show, with speakers including sailor's Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Pip Hare, marine biologist and broadcaster Monty Halls and adventurer and sailor Jazz Turner.

Demonstrations on traditional maritime skills, like steam bending, ropework, paddle making and deck laying will take place at the Wooden Boat Stage.

The RNLI is the show's charity of the year and will giving visitors the opportunity to explore its Shannon class all-weather lifeboat and new Atlantic 85 Mk4, as well as meet members of its team and pick up practical water-safety advice.