For many years, it seemed to be in denial that there was a sea here at all: the beaches were unclean and underused while abandoned industrial units occupied prime coastal real estate. The seaport, Spain's biggest, was a dirty secret; toiling in obscurity from tourists at the foot of Montjuic.

Things started to change with the 1992 Olympics and now the city has again turned its face to the Mediterranean. The port is the landing point for the countless visitors who arrive on cruise ships while new beaches stretch north, lined with new developments. Port Vell is packed with yachts and other vessels and the new Port Forum takes the overflow as well as those megayachts too big for the older marina.

This rekindled passion for all things nautical is reflected in the success of the Barcelona International Boat Show, this year celebrating its 50th anniversary. It has grown to become the largest in Spain and one of the most important in Europe.

From the 5th-13th November there will be a range of exhibitions, events and demonstrations for enthusiasts and the general public alike. The highlight is set to be a race in which some one thousand sailors in seven hundred boats will set sail along the Barcelona coast between the Hotel W and the Port Forum. On the 5th-6th of November, they will compete for the "Trofeo Salón Náutico Ciudad de Barcelona - 25 Semana Catalana de Vela Gran Premio Generalitat de Catalunya". As the name suggests, this trophy comes from the Catalan Sailing Week, the 25th edition of which is being incorporated into the International Boat Show.

There will also be a show of classic Riva powerboats, considered to be some of the most beautiful and elegant vehicles ever designed. This is certainly not to be missed.

The majority of events will take place at the Gran Via exhibition centre and at the Muelle de Espanya in Port Vell. Over 324 exhibitors are expected and there will be virtual races, competitions, product demonstrations, talks, presentations and a host of other activities. Check the Boat Show website for further details.