The Southampton Boat Show has teamed up with the Chinese Association of Southampton to launch the “Chinese Quarter” – a new attraction designed to give visitors a taste of Qingdao, Southampton’s sister city – in celebration of the forthcoming 2008 Beijing Games.

Launched to coincide with the Skandia RYA Sail for Gold regatta, the “Chinese Quarter” will show footage from the regatta at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, and feature two Olympic Class boats. Visitors will be able to enjoy a host of Chinese activities including lion dancers and a display of martial arts weapons. There will also be opportunity to sample authentic Chinese food.

Mike Enser, Marketing Manager at National Boat Shows, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to be working with the Chinese Association of Southampton. Both Southampton and Qingdao are synonymous with marine excellence and it is a real privilege to be able to bring both cities together to the Southampton Boat Show this year”.