Southampton City Council has launched Southampton Waterfront Week to restore the link between the Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS) and the Volvo Ocean Race.

Originally, the VOR was to be based next to the boatshow at Mayflower Park but after considering the space required by each of the syndicates taking part, it was decided to return the VOR (formerly the Whitbread) to its home since 1989, Ocean Village.

“The move is part of a plan to create a major festival of sailing and water sports – Southampton Waterfront Week – in September,” said Council Leader Councillor June Bridle. “We developed the idea of the two events occupying separate sites to ensure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to enjoy what we are all certain will be a superb week.”

VOR Chief Executive Helge Alten has also given his personal backing to the scheme. “We are thoroughly happy with this development, as it makes a great event greater. Europe’s largest on water boat show and the premier ocean race at the same time in close proximity and cooperating to stage a boating festival will attract a huge amount of visitors. I am looking forward to attending it.”

Southampton’s Waterfront Week, backed by SIBS, the BMIF, the City Council and Volvo Car UK, runs from 14-23 September and is intended to provide watersports enthusiasts of all stripes with a diary essential.