SOUTHAMPTON is gearing up to make a splash with the city's annual Boat Show spectacular.

Organisers have unveiled plans for September's event, which promises to be one of the biggest yet.

Hundreds of exhibitors from across the world will descend on the city for the on-water show in Mayflower Park.

A feast of new attractions will greet the anticipated 125,000 visitors over the course of the extravaganza.

Among the highlights will be an artificial standing wave for extreme sports enthusiasts to put their surfing skills to test, as well as the popular dinghy park.

The Andark Diving Pool returns to give visitors the chance to experience the thrills of diving.

The event will also be graced by the visit of a replica of Captain Cook's legendary 18th century vessel, Endeavour.

It will be moored at the marina during the course of the show for tours to give visitors the chance to re-live his historic voyage.

More than 600 exhibitors and more than 850 boats will be on display, ranging from £300 dinghies to multi-million- pound yachts.

Mike Enser, marketing manager for Southampton Boat Show, said: "Obviously there is going to be something for everyone and it will be a real family day out.

"There will also be lots on offer for the real boating enthusiasts."

Tickets for the show, which runs from September 13 to September 22, are on sale now at £10.50 for adults and £3 for children in advance.

For more details telephone 0115 912 9111.