Show organisers, the Boating Industry Association (BIA), say the event is the largest recreational boat show in the southern hemisphere, and the show will fill the entire exhibition space available at the ICC, as well as the show's purpose-built marina on Cockle Bay.

In recent years, about 60,000 people have visited the show, which is renowned for also being the largest public exhibition hosted at ICC Sydney, with more than 800 watercraft housed within the exhibition space, and a further 250 on-water vessels berthed on the marina in Cockle Bay, only two minutes walk from the exhibition halls.

Visitors to the show for the past two years have enjoyed the ICC's two exhibition levels, both of which form part of the show.

To get around from one to the other, show organisers advise to simply follow the 'Blue Line', introduced to help guide visitors through the immense building between the levels.

Those venturing through the show should ensure that ensure they have some time on the 'The Event Deck' accessible from the upper show level.

With entertainment in mind, the area has great hospitality areas as well as an enormous pool allowing guest to try to kayak or SUP.

In the down time, the young ones get a chance to ride on a bumper boat. With music, rave boats, boat building and a number of other activities, it is a must see.

The event always showcases the recreational boating lifestyle plus all the gear you'll need for a great experience on the water.

With almost 5 million people enjoying our waterways each year in Australia, this show is again expecting thousands to visit for their annual pilgrimage.

For anglers who enjoy either the open water off the coast or prefer our inland waterways, the Sydney International Boat Show promises new vessels, the latest rods, tackle, accessories and loads of technology designed to make your day on the water even more enjoyable.

The show is also the best place to choose and buy your rod and reel combo, as well as fish finders, hard and soft lures, bait buckets, landing nets or even your next boat to go with all your new gear.

Learn how to fish like the best at the show's fishing masterclasses, included with the cost of entry.

Tim Simpson, Steve Starling, Peter Johnson, Justin Duggan, Paul Burt, Rhys Creed and many more will make an appearance on stage.

Darren Vaux, president of the BIA, says fishing is a major part of the Australian lifestyle of enjoying the outdoors with friends and family.

"The Sydney International Boat Show brings together the leading dealers and manufacturers from across Australia and beyond, ready to present the latest in fishing, boating and marine technology," he says.

"This is the show where all your questions about spending more time on the water and catching bigger and better fish can be answered."

There will also be a wide variety of boats on display in both the halls and on the marina.

Ray White Marine is back with their biggest ever display at the 2019 Sydney International Boat Show.

They will be showing off the mighty Ferretti 850, sexy Itama 45s sports cruiser and entry level Ferretti 450.

Meanwhile, Dufour will be displaying the all new Dufour 390 Grand Large and the Dufour 430 Grand Large.

Also, E Marine Motor Yachts has announced the Sabre 45 Salon Express will make its Australian debut.

In the heart of Darling Harbour, the International Convention Centre Sydney and Cockle Bay Marina are easily accessible by public transport, including light rail, ferry and train and is an easy walk from either Central or Town Hall train stations.

For further details visit sydneyboatshow.com.au

Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club will again host the Asahi Super Dry NSW Country Yachting Championships. Any local boats not going to Hamilton Island Race Week are encourage to race. The series will be conducted under IRC and PHS.

It is expected the series will attract some competitive sailors, after a positive turn out in recent years.

"We have had very encouraging signs in terms of participation for the Asahi Super Dry NSW Country Yachting Championships. A lot of local boats will be there, and we hope to attract some crews from outside the region," NCYC CEO Paul O'Rourke says.

With shorter days and colder water during winter, it is timely to remind people of the importance of displaying correct navigation lights when boating at night, NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings says.

"Using navigation lights helps boaters stay safe so they can avoid hazards and exercise good judgement, and reminds boaters to keep a proper lookout when visibility becomes limited or reduced" Mr Hutchings says.

Non-compliance with navigation lighting in NSW carries a penalty of $250 or a court-imposed maximum penalty of $5500.