IT'S the Formula 1 of the nautical world and it's coming to Cowes this weekend.

Described as a festival of speed on water the Honda Cowes Classic is the longest-running offshore power boat race in the world.

With more than 90 high-speed vessels entered this year, the Solent will be transformed into a spectacular blur of powerful craft from around the world.

Powerboats of all shapes and sizes will gather for the four-day event, which includes seven separate championships, including the prestigious Cowes-Torquay-Cowes course and the chance to compete for the historical Harmsworth trophy.

British hopefuls David Allenby, from Romsey and former world champion, the Earl of Normanton, from Ringwood, represent the UK's major hopes for a title.

Among the fleet of boats gathered at Cowes, will be their 38ft craft Premiere Crew which is capable of a breathtaking 80-miles-an-hour.

Premier Crew faces stiff competition from another British team, the Sunseeker crew. Current European hampions, Ian Sanderson, from Lymmington, and Peter Dredge, from Southampton, promise to push competitors to the limit.

Currently enjoying its 42nd year, the Cowes Classic looks set to deliver an adrenaline-fuelled spectacle for those on and off the water. For Premier Crew throttle man David Allenby, the honour of taking part is clear: "I've been powerboat racing since the early 80s but the Honda Cowes Classic is the greatest race in the world. It's fabulous." He said.

Racing begins on Thursday August 22 and runs until Sunday.