At the announcement of Fête de la Mer were, from left back: board member Laurence Vallette, Métimer President Bülent Gülay, Treasurer Régine Hée, and Secretary Brigitte Delaître. Front (l): Event Coordinators Agnes Benezech, Alexina Paya, and Eve de Saint-Alary.
MARIGOT–The 2017 edition of Fête de la Mer will take place on Grand Case Beach on the weekend of June 3 to 4, 2017, from 10:00am to 6:00pm both days, organiser Métimer announced at a press conference.
The format for the Fête remains the same as in previous years due to the popularity and suitability of the location. Over 4,000 persons enjoy this event annually thanks to the participation of some 25 water sports operators. The Fête is also celebrated nationally all over France, the purpose of which is to encourage the population to discover the sea and water sports activities.
All of the activities in Grand Case will be taking place from the beach between the two piers, or off-shore in the bay. The wide array of water sports available include kayaking, stand-up paddle boards, jet skis, wake-boarding, a new discipline knee-boarding, water skiing, windsurfing, Hobie cats, Hawaiian pirogue, banana boat rides, snorkelling at Creole Rock, diving, and so on.
For those who prefer to stay dry, excursions to Creole Rock on Sea World Explorer’s glass-bottomed vessels will be available as will sailing trips on the various charter catamarans. Other activities include aqua gym and Fly Board demonstrations. Last year mermaids also entertained the public.
Floating cubes on either side of the two piers will again serve as auxiliary docks to facilitate the arrival of jet skis etc. and for security of swimmers.
To participate in water sports activities one purchases tickets for one euro or one US $1 or by purchasing a book of tickets. Each activity corresponds to a number of tickets to be redeemed. There will be continuous live commentary to keep the public informed about the activities and schedules of departures etc.
For younger children there will be appropriate activities organised on the beach such as a bouncy castle, trampolines, and other fun activities such as paddle board racing and jousting on paddle boards.
The Fête is made possible by some 30 volunteers and numerous sponsors. Water sports operators offer their activities without charge.
French-side sea rescue service SNSM will have their rigid inflatable boat (RIB) Rescue Star patrolling the bay to ensure the safety of the public. Last year proceeds from the event were donated to four young water sport athletes to assist with their expenses for international competitions. This year SNSM will be the recipient of the proceeds.
So far 11 water sports operators have signed up. Other water sport operators interested in taking part should may send an email to [email protected]/* */
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/65746-2017-edition-fete-de-la-mer-to-take-place-june-3-4
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