Harbin felt more like Monte Carlo on Sept 16 as a flotilla of almost 100 yachts moored on the banks of Songhua River ahead of the Northeast Chinese city’s first yacht expo, which runs from Sept 16 to 21.

Just fewer than 20 yacht manufacturers are exhibiting at the expo, including the famous French brand Beneteau, Qingdao company Baoquan Yacht, and Cihang, the yacht makers from Dalian.

The exposition, which is based around the theme “Beautiful Songhua River, Quality Life”, has been organized by Harbin’s trade development association, tourism development committee and sports bureau in collaboration with Daoli district government.

There is more than 40,000 square meters of exhibition space in total, divided into two areas—one on the river bank, and one on the water surface itself.

Nine kinds of vessels are on display, including houseboats, hovercraft and inflatable boats in addition to Genesis 360 yachts and Ocean Master boats.

By popular demand, the expo will also feature top-level motorhomes, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles and yacht repair equipment.

Interested buyers will be able to test drive the yachts throughout the event, and high rollers can even order a custom-made craft purpose built for their needs.