Four years ago, billing the Dublin Boat Show as "the biggest ever" might have been viewed by some as publicity hype aimed at kick-starting an apparently lack-lustre marine leisure industry. At the RDS this week, such a billing is deserved with something on offer to suit most interests.

Following Wednesday's St Patrick's Day opening, there was widespread surprise at the crowds, especially with the fine weather and parades clashing; even yesterday during the day, there was a healthy buzz about the display area at a time more usually associated with the calm before the evening rush.

In terms of boat displays, there is a marked emphasis on entry level, dinghies and bigger craft, which possibly points to a trend in interests. Powerboats feature strongly throughout the main halls, with several mid-sized cruising yachts on display in the new Shelbourne Hall, Dublin's answer to Earls Court 2 that provides an extra 20 per cent of space.

The Irish Sailing Association (ISA) are also offering a series of free seminars covering a range of topics, both racing and cruising. Yesterday's talk on Racing Trim by sailmaker John McWilliam was reduced to standing-room only, while Donal McClement will deliver two talks on safety, today at 12.30 p.m. and tomorrow at 1.0 p.m.

Today also sees the ISA Cruising Symposium entitled "Getting away from it all" with Winkie Nixon, Tom Cunliffe and round-the-world couple Gearoid and Orla Flannigan from 2.30 to 6.30, followed by dinner at the Royal St George YC, Dun Laoghaire. Tim McInnes will also be speaking on the Asgard project tomorrow at 11.30.

If anything is lacking at the show for sailors looking for a boat, it is probably in the area of smaller day boats and overnight cruisers representing the established, middle-range of the market. Compared to the amount of power and bigger yachts on display, it is surprising that this section of the market isn't better catered for.

Nevertheless, several traders reported a brisk business in accessories, particularly in the electronics area where there is plenty of choice over nearly a dozen stands specialising in this area.

David Harte and Garrett Connolly's Zzap junior boat is receiving warm acclaim and attention with a number of inquiries. Translating Boat Show leads into sales is the next task and, together with interest from the UK, this summer will be a crucial period for the 12-footer's progress.