London international boat show
Princess, the largest boat displayed
London’s international boat show opened yesterday at Excel centre in London’s Docklands.
The show was launched by model and sportswoman Jodie Kidd amid a fireworks display, giving the sector a kick-start into 2011.
Boat building and industry firms from East Anglia were out in force, including a few new faces from Norfolk and a 32-metre motor yacht, Princess, the largest boat displayed inside the centre. The cost of the yacht is £5.5 million. It boasts five bedrooms, two lounge areas and a hot tub. It is so large she only narrowly made it through the enormous South Hall doors at ExceL.
This year visitors will be able to admire a new layout, including an extended boardwalk area and a water sports pool.
Ipswich-based luxury yacht builder Oyster Marine has a prime stand at the show, placing two Oysters, both made in Norfolk, in front of the main entrance and one of the new attractions – a large outdoor water sports hall.
Returning to the show is Catfield-based Haines Marine and first timers to the Excel location of the show is North Walsham-based Hardy Marine. Regulars Wroxham Marine and Broom Boats, under its new ownership, are also at the show.
The show runs until January 16.