IT'S the new look set to become the jewel in Southampton's waterfront.

Admiral's Quay will bring Riviera-style living to the city and make Ocean Village one of the most sought-after addresses in town.

As the UK home of ocean racing, the six towering apartment blocks comprising 441 apartments, restaurants and shops, will transform Southampton into a mecca for international sea-going glamour.

The luxury marina will be officially unveiled tomorrow at a waterside party.

Ian Simpson from architects Broadway Maylan, who have designed the marina makeover, said: "The marina is a landmark for the city.

"In Admiral's Quay we have created a new statement for Southampton and a backdrop to rival other international ocean ports.

"The design is clean-cut and modern, reflecting the lines of today's sleek racing yachts."

Part of the old Canute's Pavillion, which used to adorn the Ocean Village waterfront has already made way for the development by Wilson Bowden City Homes.

Apartments in two blocks including Endeavour Court and Ranger Court have already been occupied and a brand new Tesco store will open as part of the development on June 2. All apartments will have well-equipped kitchens, a full range of stylish domestic appliances, and modern white bathroom suites.

Extensive use of glass, steel, timber and whitewash walls are designed to give the area a modern maritime feeling. Each apartment will have access to a balcony allowing residents to experience al-fresco dining while overlooking the marina.

Four more blocks will be named after ocean winds Sumatra and Sirocco.

Views as far as the Isle of Wight will come at a price starting at £160,000 and rising to £1m for the penthouse apartments.

Tomorrow's launch, which starts at noon, will include the Challenge Business Hoist a Sail competition in which teams will compete the 90ft sail on Sir Chay Blyth's Global Challenge round-the-world-yachts.

The 85mph powerboat, extremeboat.com, which currently leads the British national Powerboat Championships, will also be on display.