SeaFest, Ireland’s national maritime festival, kicked off to a gloriously sunny start in Galway yesterday drawing a buzzing crowd more than happy to celebrate our seas and enjoy the diverse range of fun and family friendly maritime activities on offer around the city.
The huge turnout of people of Friday and Saturday were met with a wonderfully crafted set-up in the docks where vessels from all across the Irish maritime world were gathered and open for visits. Big top tents housing a dazzling array of stalls and installations to catch the eye and serve up informative tidbits were alive with activity and action.
The clever use of space at the harbour allowed for people to comfortably walk the ship-lined docks and stall-filled promenade, creating an amphitheatre-like feel which fed the atmosphere. The huge video screens were put to excellent use to engage the crowds and share interesting stories and experiences from around the Irish maritime world. In the harbour waters, appropriately the geographic centre of the festival, kayakers played around with many embracing the opportunity to try a brand new watersport. The crazy but seriously impressive acrobatics of the flyboarders (humans propelled 20 metres into the air by a full powered fire hose – has to be seen to be believed) captivated the crowds and periodically drew everyone to the harbours edge including those mid-exploration on the multi-story ship around the docks – The coliseum effect was complete!
SeaFest continues on Sunday with a full line up of events and activities. If you’re around, head down!
Check out our SeaFest photos below.
