VISITOR figures may have been down but the organisers have hailed this year’s PSP Southampton Boat Show a success.

This year’s ten-day show saw 109,722 people visit which was expected to provide a £12 million boost to the region’s economy.

Last year saw 111,017 people go through the gates.

The 44th annual show came to a close on Sunday with 550 exhibitors gaining business from the show.

Already 110 companies have signed up to take part in next year’s show and both the British Marine Federation (BMF) and its subsidiary National Boat Shows (NBS) said they were proud of the show’s success.

Murray Ellis, managing director of organiser National Boat Shows said: “The show was filled with boats, products, equipment, everything a new or existing boat owner could need. The show hosted over 60 launches of boats and brands including 18 global unveilings.

“The show’s signature attractions have continued to drive visitors into the show along with new highlights for 2012. The PSP Southampton Boat Show continues to be a showcase of the marine industry that we can all be immensely proud of.”

David Pougher, chairman of National Boat Shows added: “Exhibitors are feeling very positive with the quality of show visitor and across the sectors business is being done.

“The feedback from the exhibitors and visitors is inspiring as we move forward into the new year to provide yet again, another exceptional showcase for the leisure marine industry.”