LUXURY yachts, tens of thousands of visitors, and a raft of marine industry figures – it can only mean the start of the 45th PSP Southampton Boat Show.

The biggest annual event on the south coast will get under way at 11am tomorrow with the official show opening.

From 1.30pm, there will be a live technology show from Raymarine, which aims to give spectators an insight into the firm’s latest range of innovative electronic navigation equipment.

An estimated 120,000 people from all over the world are expected to attend the ten-day show at Mayflower Park. As reported by the Daily Echo, this year’s event will see an unprecedented 100 plus vessels making their debuts to the eyes of the public.

They include the Fairline Squadron 48, the Hardy 62, the Sunseeker 80 Sport Yacht, and the Oceanis 38.

The show, which runs until September 22, will feature one of Europe’s largest marinas with more than 2km of pontoons and up to 1,000 boats.

Active Nation is offering visitors the chance to take part in kayaking, water zorbing and water walking for free throughout the nine-day event.

There will also be a Suzuki rigid inflatable boat (RIB) experience, dinghy sailing, skipper skills, and solo Figaro sailing on offer.

Legendary sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston will launch the 2014 Haven Academy on Wednesday while Ladies’ day returns on Thursday.

Murray Ellis, director of operations at National Boat Shows, said the PSP Southampton Boat Show is in the top ten boat shows in the world.

He said: “This year we have 33 world debuts, 46 UK debuts, two European, and 38 new boats on show.

“These companies are fantastic British manufacturers but are choosing Southampton to launch their products.

“The marine industry is the same as any other in the economic climate. It is finding times tough and challenging.

This show is a crucial part of promoting goods and services of the British marine industry.

“It is very important it stays in Southampton. This is its 45th year. It has longevity, where other shows have come and gone.

“There are not many other events where we can build a purpose built marina and a large amount of land we can develop.

“Southampton has delivered that since 1969 and I am confident it will deliver for another 45 years.”