The ninth annual Bournemouth Air Festival is just six days away - but the action isn't all about what's happening in the skies.

The hugely popular Royal Navy ships are set to return and will once again be open to members of the public. 

A whopping 980 free tickets will be released on Monday, August 15, at 7am.

Tickets will be available to book from bournemouthair.co.uk 

Last year tickets sold out in just nine hours and organisers are urging people to snap them up early to avoid disappointment. 

There are 70 tickets per boat trip, with five trips taking place on Friday and Saturday and four trips on Sunday.

Tickets are available for both adults and children, but they must be 130cm or above. 

Please check the full Royal Navy terms and conditions before you book. 

Ship visiting times 

  • 9.30am boat for 10am to 11am tour
  • 10.30am boat for 11am to 12pm tour
  • 1pm boat for 1.30pm to 2.30pm tour
  • 2pm boat for 2.30pm to 3.30pm tour
  • 3pm boat for 3.30pm to 4.30 tour - Friday and Saturday only and NOT Sunday

A Navy Blue Party in aid of the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity will also be taking place during the Air Festival.

The event takes place on Saturday, August 20, at the Hotel Miramar from 7pm to 11.30pm.

It will feature The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood with a musical theme to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Jutland

There will be a hog roast supper, Night Air displays and live jazz plus the chance to meet military dignitaries.

Admission is strictly by ticket only and they are priced at £40 per person, with £25 from each ticket sale going directly to the charity.

To reserve your place call Hotel Miramar on 01202 556591. Or visit http://miramar-bournemouth.com/miramar-information/news/