Scotland’s coastline is one of the most beautiful in the world and perfect for hosting world class sailing, boating and rowing events.

Tourism in sailing and boating continues to expand and contribute to the Scottish economy. Rowing is also a major sport for Scotland and Strathclyde Park in North Lanarkshire offers a world class facility in an outstanding setting.

EventScotland supported the World Masters Rowing Championship in 2005, the National Rowing Championships of Great Britain in 2006 and 2010, and in 2007, invested more than £70,000 in the FISA World Rowing Under 23 Championships.

In July 2010, Scotland welcomed the Laser Radial World and European Championships to Largs which generated significant economic impact to the local area.

In addition, EventScotland has supported a number of high profile sailing events including the Bell Lawrie Scottish Series in 2006 on Loch Fyne in Argyll and Bute. EventScotland invested £25,000 in this premier yachting competition which attracted more than 200 competing yachts and provides the only international standard competition in Scotland.

EventScotland has also supported various regional boating events and festivals including the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival and the Kirkintilloch Canal Festival, both of which utilise and showcase Scotland’s maritime traditions and spectacular ports and waterways.

Boating tourism in Scotland is estimated to generate around £2 billion for the economy and more than 22,000 people in the country are employed in marine related industries.

In 2012 Largs will host the 470 European Championships, which is the class of boat used for both the men’s and women’s two-person dinghy sailing events at the Olympic Games.