Make a splash at the Foyle Maritime Festival

With the countdown on until Derry’s Foyle Maritime Festival this weekend, event organisers are encouraging the public to make a splash and get on board with the many water based activities on offer.

Speaking ahead of the festival, Festivals and Events Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey, said: “We are delighted to have such a fantastic range of water based events throughout the festival programme this year, giving people the opportunity to get hands on with the maritime experience.

“Whether you’re experienced at water sports or an absolute beginner and would just like to try something new, we have an activity to suit you. We have sailing, kayaking and canoeing for the more adventurous and for the less daring, why not take a trip on one of the beautiful boats visiting the city?”

If you’ve always wanted to know how the Clipper Race crews pass their days racing on board there will be a full programme of Open Boat Tours running from tomorrow until this Friday, offering the chance to discover what life is like on board the impressive Clipper 70 yachts.

Receive a personal yacht tour from crew members who have competed in this unique challenge. Tours leave from Foyle Marina and admission is free – please wear sensible footwear - no high heels! One of the star attractions at this year’s festival is certain to be the Phoenix Tall Ship, famous from its many TV and movie appearances such as The Scarlett Pimpernel and Moll Flanders, and most recently Poldark and Outlander.

Built in 1929, you’ll be captivated by this real treasure of the sea. Admission is free and tours run from McFarland Quay Thursday 14th July 12noon – 5pm; Friday 15th July 12noon – 8pm; Saturday 16th July10am – 5pm and Sunday 17th July 10am – 5pm.

With the Dragon Boat Race on Sunday 10th July, Canoe River Tours on Wednesday 13th July, Live Water Displays over the weekend of 15th-17th and the spectacular finale event on the Foyle - the Parade of Sails on Sunday 17th July - the river will be alive with maritime festivities that must not be missed!