Thousands of spectators lined the Clyde on Saturday to see the historic Commonwealth Games flotilla sail from Greenock to Pacific Quay in Glasgow.

More than 250 vessels of all shapes and sizes — led by the Caledonaian MacBrayne ferry MV Lochinvar — made a spectacular sight as they majestically sailed up- river in warm sunshine.

Vessels from all over the Clyde took part, and Largs and Millport was represented in the flotilla, which was organised by the Royal Yachting Association.

John Connelly, Rear Commodore of Largs Sailing Club, wife Hilary and other family members were on board their yacht, the 40ft Aztec, and Millport boat owner Alex Forrest sailed The Spirit of Cumbrae to the city, also with family and friends on board to enjoy the historic occasion.

Many people from Largs, Skelmorlie and Inverkip travelled to Customhouse Quay in Greenock where one of the official spectator sites was located at the Beacon Arts Centre.

The Largs and Millport Weekly news was aboard the MV Lochinvar, one of two diesel/electric ferries built at Ferguson’ shipyard in Port Glasgow, as she led the flotilla up a flat-calm river.

Among those enjoying the sail on the ferry were Ross and Cathy Craig from Inverkip and their sons Sam (16) and Alex (12).

Ross said: “It’s a great occasion, and the flotilla looks fantastic. The boys are very impressed and enjoying themselves immensely.” James Stuart, chief executive of RYA Scotland, said they were amazed and absolutely thrilled at the success of the flotilla.

He said: “We wanted to inject some colour into the Clyde for one weekend in what is probably the most important fortnight in Glasgow’s recent history.

“We got the sense in the last couple of days that this was going to be a big event but the response that we got from spectators throughout the day has been incredible, and totally beyond our expectations.

“Speaking to people just after we arrived at Pacific Quay in Glasgow, we really got a sense of the interest and excitement people had in watching this historic event and we want to thank the people of Glasgow and Inverclyde and beyond who turned out to make this such a perfect day.” * More pictures and coverage in this week's Largs News - out on Wednesday afternoon.