The annual London Boat Show returns to the capital from the 8th to the 17th of January and promises to show off the latest in marine innovation, design and technology once again. The schedule is full of interesting industry talks, exhibitions, and more than enough ways for crew members to gain valuable information and have fun.

The main place to do just that will be the purpose-built Mediterranean Bay attraction, which will be constructed in the Excel Centre for the 2016 show. An artificially constructed pool, the bay will measure a staggering 500m2. It will host a number of exciting seminars about boat handling, sail reefing and capsize drilling, delivered by top sailing schools. There is also the opportunity to experience Johnson Outdoors' new sit-on kayaks and even have a ride on a seabob — the latest must have toy.

For daredevils and thrill-seekers, the Boat Show's Watersports Festival is not to be missed. As well as a mixture of water and stand-based activities, there are several adrenaline-fuelled competitions to get pulses pumping. The walk-on-water challenge is exactly what it sounds like; teams of two enter giant hamster-like balls and literally race each other over the waves in a true test of teamwork. But the Blind Powerboat Challenge pushes the test of teamwork to the next level. Crews must navigate their boat around a course in the quickest time possible, while the boat's driver wears a blindfold. Points are deducted for collisions and poor navigation, so pick your teammates very, very carefully.

After all the excitement, what better way to unwind and relax than with a drink in the Sunseeker champagne bar? Sit back and enjoy glasses of the finest bubbly in the chic and stylish surroundings of some of the world's most luxurious yachts, while looking out over sea of boats, and meet many like-minded people.

The Black and White bar offers slightly simpler, but by no means less enjoyable, surroundings. The Guinness branded pub has proven to be a huge hit at past events and it remains the perfect place to soak up the lively atmosphere and meet up with fellow crew members before exploring all that the event has to offer.

Indeed, the event does offer a lot. Other highlights include trips on vintage vessels — such as the MT KENT, MT TOUCHSTONE, SB MELISSA and the MASSEY SHAW — as well as the highly anticipated awards night and even special celebrity appearances from some of England's world cup winning rugby players. Tickets are available now, so make sure you don't miss out on what has become one of London's most popular sailing events.

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