PRINCESS Anne officially opened the 30th annual boat show in Inverkip - and heaped praise on the event.

Her Royal Highness kicked off proceedings at Kip Marina yesterday and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the milestone.

The Princess Royal said: “Thank you for all the work you’ve done in attracting more and more people to understand the pleasures of sailing in Scotland.”

As many as 16,000 people are expected over the course of the three-day event.

Provost of Inverclyde, Robert Moran, was also in attendance to greet the royal visitor and says the boat show is a jewel in the crown for the area.

Mr Moran said: "I come here every year to open the show on the Friday and visit on the Saturday with my grandchildren.

"This is how we promote Inverclyde and marine tourism is a big part of that and this showcases Inverclyde at its best.

"I would encourage everyone regardless of whether they can buy a boat to come to the show because it's a great day out and there's plenty to see and do.

"I'd like to congratulate everyone at Kip Marina and everyone involved in the show on their 30th anniversary and it's great that it's been given the royal seal of approval by Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal."

Scotland's Boat Show at Kip Marina is on again today until 6pm and from 10am until 5pm tomorrow.

Video by Paul John Coulter.