For all of you who've been waiting, it's almost here ? the Christmas Boat Parade is set to sail this Saturday evening.

More than 60 vessels and 1,000 people will set sail from the Hamilton Princess at 6.30 on Saturday evening to wind their way along a two-mile course before an estimated 20,000 spectators.

Boats of all sizes, from runabouts to yachts of nearly 100 feet, will be decorated with lights, holiday decorations and, in some cases, live and animated characters will form the "floats" in the parade.

"We have some spectacular entries this year, and one or two surprises that I know spectators will get great pleasure from," boat parade spokesperson Ian Coles promised. "Of course, at 8.15 p.m. XL's firework display from White's Island will light up the night sky and round off the evening's entertainment!"

Radio and TV personality Peter Lewis will broadcast live commentary from the Flagpole on Mix 106.1 FM. The programming will be simulcast over a PA system along Front Street.

"We suggest the best places to watch are anywhere along the City of Hamilton and Pitts Bay Road waterfront, atop either Cavendish Heights or Bostock Hill, or, of course, Harbour Road in Paget," Mr. Coles said.

Police will be closing off the eastbound lane (nearest the water) of Harbour Road between Manse Road and Lovers Lane to allow cars to park/watch boats.

Vehicles parked there must be removed immediately after the parade, however, to allow a regular flow of traffic ? or Police will be issuing traffic tickets.

Front Street will remain open but the southern parking lane (nearest the water) from Parliament Street to Albuoy's Point will be roped off to provide spectators with extra space. The car park opposite the Bank of Butterfield, as well as Albuoy's Point, will also be closed to all traffic from 4 p.m. onwards.

Spectator boats were "strongly discouraged", Mr. Coles said. "Safety must come first, and to ensure a safe and clear parade route Hamilton Harbour will shut down to boat traffic after 5.30 p.m. There will also be 'No Anchor Zones' near the parade route.

"We will be working with Marine Police, Marine & Ports, and 'control boats' to ensure a safe and clear parade route. Only boats entered and participating in the parade will be allowed to be close to the parade route."

The Fairmont Hamilton is the host hotel, starting point and judging centre for the parade. The outside patio area ? famous for Happy Hour during the summer ? will be open to the public and drinks as well as food will be available. The official prize-giving will take place in this area also at approximately 9 p.m.

The boat parade is sponsored by XL Capital, Cable & Wireless, American Airlines, Freisenbruch Meyer Group, Bacardi, Butterfield & Vallis, and the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs and Sport.