Now in its fifth year, the British Marine Federation’s Go Boating weekend (19-20 June 2004) at Poole Quay looks set to welcome crowds of up to 3,000.

The purpose of the weekend is to allow members of the public to have a go on the water, get advice on how to start out safely and to see if sailing, windsurfing and power boating are hobbies they would like to pursue.

James Sydenham of BMF Wessex, said: “We want to attract families, teenagers and adults who have not had the opportunity to sample the rewards and excitement that one can acquire from all of the different sports and hobbies on the water. The event is free and we actively promote the event to schools, groups, clubs and families to all come down and have some fun!”

This year visitors can see a beautifully restored HSL 102. Built in 1936 she was found on the River Dart in 1994 as a derelict houseboat, after extensive renovations she was re-launched in July 1996 by the Queen Mother.

Other attractions are the RNLI Sea Safety, sailing and power exhibits by Rockley Watersports and craft between 2.5-20m supplied by local British Marine Federation members.