Fête de la Mer is two days of water sports fun for the whole family. (photo Robert Luckock)
MARIGOT–Fête de la Mer will be celebrating its tenth anniversary this year when the popular event is held on the beach of Grand Case on the weekend of June 1 and 2, from 10:00am to 6:00pm on both days. Organised annually by French-side marine trades association Métimer, the event takes place later than usual this year due to the European Elections. Some special surprises are planned for this edition.
The Fête is held usually in conjunction with Sea Discovery Day, an excursion aimed at school students to give them an appreciation of the sea, the marine environment, the marine trades, flora and fauna, and to also impress on young minds the importance of protecting natural resources.
The day-long excursion goes to Tintamarre island on numerous sailing vessels and motorized craft. Students enjoy a lunch on the beach and can try a number of water sports, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, swimming etcetera. Réserve Naturelle is also a partner in Discovery Day and their representatives give a lecture about the environment. Some 20 vessels are needed to transport up to 150 students for this excursion.
Fête de la Mer offers the public a maximum number of water sport activities over the two days at very low cost. A proven formula over the years remains the same whereby tickets are purchased for as low as one dollar or one euro and up, depending on the activity, or up to 12 euros (US$12) for a catamaran excursion. One can also purchase of a book of 10 tickets.
Activities include kayaking, wakeboarding, jet ski, paddle board, Hobie Cats, sailing excursions, a snorkelling tour around Creole Rock guided by Réserve Naturelle, and plenty of games and activities on the beach for small children. Look out for Tahitian dancers, mermaids and paddle yoga demonstrations; and not forgetting between activities one can enjoy lunch at the “Lolos”.
The event is animated with music and running commentary informing the public of departure times of various excursions or start of various activities. A tribute will be paid to the memory of the late David Gozal who was one of the regular commentators.
Fête de la Mer requires some 90 volunteers who make sure all activities are fully supervised. Volunteers are given free meals over the weekend. The event took a fall in attendance figures after Hurricane Irma, but at least 3,000 visitors will be expected this year.
Métimer is seeking more volunteers to ensure the success of the event. Interested persons can call (0590) 27.12.96.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/87550-fete-de-la-mer-set-for-weekend-of-june-1-2
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