'Like many sailors, I am passionate about my sport,' said Mr Court. 'The 2007 show at Earls Court was a real success and a credit to the team that worked so hard to deliver the biggest consumer launch show of the year with just nine months preparation.' I'm looking forward to bringing my family to Earls Court again in November, he added.

The organisers say the 'show for all water-lovers' will welcome boating enthusiasts for five packed days of pre-Christmas fun, delivering more entertainment, exciting new products, interaction, education and hospitality.

One major difference this year will see the show presented only in Earls Court 1, which means visitors will get the view from the balcony over the assembled boats and people below around the pool - always one of the spectacular views when the London Boat Show ran at the venue.

The organisers promise 'hundreds of boats' will be on display with 'a mix of family fun and boats' to see, with the show re-branded to reach a new audience of water-loving families and to attract the next generation to the world of boating.

Children under 16 go free and among the features on offer are Olympic heroes, spectacular wakeboard stunts, the biggest powerboat display in London and Father Christmas making regular appearances to hand out presents.

Other attractions include a display of marine art, a classic boat display, a marine electronics village, the RIB International RIB Zone, the Inland Waterways World, the Raymarine YJA Yachtsman of the Year Gallery, a Charter and Destinations Zone for holidays around the world, a Chandlery Village hosting the top names in marine fashion, the Guinness bar and the world’s largest boat auction.

Run by Boatshed’s, BoatBid, a selection of boats from 10ft to 1110ft in length will go under the hammer throughout the show. The auction works, apparently, 'a bit like eBay'.

'We’re very excited about delivering a show that’s even better than last year’s,' said managing director James Brooke. 'It will inspire a new generation of mariner and attract families that may not have otherwise considered getting afloat. '

The Sail, Power and Watersports Show runs at Earls Court from 26 – 30 November 2008 with Whyte & Mackay as the official whisky and Carlsberg as the official lager for the show.