ONE of the longest-running boat shows in the world is set to open its doors for the 55th time tomorrow.
London Boat Show, held at the ExCeL arena, is a mecca for yachties all over the globe and visitor numbers this year are expected to smash the 130,000 mark.
The sister show of the Southampton Boat Show, the event will feature hundreds of yachts, dinghies and powerboats among the 500 exhibitors.
Dozens of big names from the world of sailing are set to appear, including local stars Dame Ellen MacArthur, Geoff Holt and Sir Keith Mills.
Ocean rower Sarah Outen will take to the main stage to talk about her bid to become the first woman to row solo across the Indian Ocean, aged just 23.
The stage will also be home to A Mermaid’s Tale, an underwater sequel to last year’s spectacular stage show Sea Queen.
Returning to this year’s show is the popular Classic Boat section featuring traditional yachts from all over the globe, while the Royal Victoria Dock will play home to dozens of yachts.
One of the most anticipated launches comes from Poole powerboat manufacturer Sunseeker, which is due to unveil its new luxury 30-metre superyacht.
London Boat Show runs from tomorrow to January 18.
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