But despite all the results of the survey work and the positive noises coming from most of the exhibitors, Brian O'Sullivan, chairman of the Irish Marine Federation and MD of O'Sullivans boatbuilders, insists there are some serious issues facing the industry.

"If the industry is to grow to the level of our European partners, " he said, "there is a serious shortage of marine infrastructure, not just marinas but also slipways, boat parks and safe harbours."

Without investment in the infrastructure this industry cannot grow, he added. "Without places to keep boats there is simply no market, no market for boat sales, no market for chandlery, no market for training and no market for marine tourism."