BRITAIN’S biggest floating festival is back in Southampton showcasing its finest yachts, boats, dinghies and kayaks.

Southampton International Boat Show 2019, which gets under way today, will host debuts from over 330 boats, including yachts such as the Dufour 390 Grand Large, and 600 global marine brands are expected to set up stalls for the ten-day event.

Everything you need to know about Southampton Boat Show

Thousands of visitors will flock to Mayflower Park and the neighbouring purpose built marina from across the UK and further afield for the the 51st annual show.

But there will be one change to the programme. Ladies Day will be missing this year.

While traditionalists can still attend a special female only event at Grand Cafe as usual, organisers of the show itself have decided to do away with the Thursday theme.

A spokesperson for the show told the Daily Echo: “Although this used to be a tradition of the Show, this year we have decided that due to our commitment to promote the inclusivity of boating and the Show to all we no longer felt Ladies Day was necessary. Instead we want to celebrate diversity throughout the 10 days and look forward to welcoming everyone through our doors.

“At the Show we will be joined by numerous female sailors discussing their experiences and hosting a Women in the Marine Reception, both will promote equality in the industry and sport. Our careers stand will also be promoting the sector to females; available to both members of the public and exhibitors to visit, the stand will have specific advice and guidance sessions timetabled throughout the duration of the Show.”

This year organisers British Marine have taken on new headline sponsor Borrow A Boat to enable boat-lovers to sail onboard the luxury water attractions. Visitors can try a range of on-the-sea experiences, including stand-up paddleboarding and a 72ft race yacht.

Opening the show is British rowing champion, double Olympic gold medallist and new Strictly Come Dancing star, James Cracknell OBE.

He said: “I’m delighted to be opening the 51st Southampton International Boat Show. I’ve spent most of my life on the water. The water is an amazing place to be.”

There will be more boats, stalls and activities this year after the marina expanded.

Thousands of guest speakers and businesses will host talks, with live music and interactive attractions including a mini cruise, seaside storytime ship and boating stage, where you can meet well-known sailing personalities.

The Southampton International Boat Show runs from 9.30am until 6.30pm every day until Sunday September 22.