A RECORD number of visitors are expected to swoop on Kip Marina for the 2019 Scotland's Boat Show.

Organisers of the event anticipate a bumper crowd to flock to the Inverkip harbourside from across the UK on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to see the huge display of boats and attractions, including birds of prey and other exotic species courtesy of KG Hawks in Skelmorlie.

There will also be an array of luxury cars, caravans, stalls, activities on the water and on land, and marquees featuring artisan food, drink and crafts.

The Inverkip showpiece is the biggest of its kind in Scotland and the second largest boat show in Britain.

Gavin McDonagh, managing director of Kip Marina, said: "The team have worked tirelessly to build on previous years' successes and, together with our key partners and sponsors, we are delighted to have established Scotland's Boat Show as the major event on the Scottish marine calendar for both our visitors and those involved in the country's marine and tourism businesses.

"These wonderful, exotic birds are just one of the many attractions we have in addition to the extensive range of new and pre-owned boats for sale.

"We're expecting a record turnout this year and we look forward to welcoming everyone."

The 33rd edition of the show will feature one of the largest ranges of new and used vessels for sale and staff have already been inundated with enquiries.

Roseann Sweeney, from marina-based brokerage firm Michael Schmidt & Partners, said: "We will have a full display of boats for all budgets but such is the demand already from customers that we are advising potential sellers to contact us as soon as possible before the show so they can maximise their listing with our special boat show package."

Visitors to the event will also be able to enjoy boat rides, sailing activities and will have the chance to win a trip on board a high-speed Ballistic RIB.

On top of that, there will be luxury cars from the likes of Porsche and Morgan on display, motorbikes from Harley Davidson, cookery demonstrations from TV chef Nick Nairn on the Sunday, tours of 60-foot round-the-world clipper Taeping, helicopter rides, special guest talks, live entertainment from the Inverclyde and Largs Rock Choirs, a children's play area and plenty to eat and drink.

Kevin Blamire, who organises the annual Kip Marine event, said: "There really is something for all the family at Scotland's Boat Show."

The show opens at 10am each day through until 6pm and admission is free.

Car parking costs £5.

For full listings, visit www.scotlandsboatshow.co.uk or call 521485 for more information.