ABSTRACT

Home of the BT Global Challenge, the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race and the largest on the water Boat Show in the world, Southampton has an international maritime reputation. The city is located by the Solent which is one of the busiest stretches of water in Britain, and it is at the centre of the UK sailing and leisure craft industry which is seen as having a growing significance to the city. The port and waterfrontage provide an arena for water sports and water sporting events to take place. The city attracts visitors for its ‘maritimeness’ which is derived from its maritime heritage and current ‘authentic’ maritime activity. This is exhibited through amalgamation of industry, infrastructure, craft and participants.