The London Boat Show
Since the change of venue, the London Boat Show really does ExCeL.
Everything to do with 'messing about in boats' plus the gadgets and new ideas that bring all types of watersports together, to suit every type of enthusiast.
As well as the quality , top range yachts there are stands for every other type of boat including the innovative new designs for children, from kayaks to catamarans and even a royal navy frigate.
The outdoor exhibition area had everything from steam tugs used at Dunkirk, to Sir Alec Rose's Lively Lady, and Virgin Atlantic Challenger II, as well as Thames sailing barges.
The finale of the show this year was a 'Battle of the Classes' on the waterfront, and featuring 35 boats from 35 classes in a handicap race.
Indoors were all the stands and exhibits - including folding bikes and designer beach huts and, of course, the Indoor Watersports Arena - where the Canoe Polo National Championships, the British Indoor Wakeboard Championships and the London Indoor Windsurfing Championships took place.
There was information on every type of 'water' holiday - from inland waterways to waterside holidays as well as sailing abroad with opportunities to improve your sailing skills while on holiday.
All of this is presented in a 'spectator friendly' environment with lots of refreshments for all tastes - a lesson that the Cannes Boat Show could use - one caf? is really not enough especially in the blistering sun of the French Riviera - although the need for cold water is not so apparent in London in January!
An excellent day out for all ages and tastes, and good value with such a wide range of exhibits. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED