A ‘sun’sational second day at SeaFest

Flyboarders in action at SeaFest 18. Picture Andrew Downes, XposureThe packed programme of free, family friendly events continued yesterday in Galway for SeaFest 2018. From famous ships, flyboarding, sailing and seafood, Galway Harbour was awash with seafaring entertainment for day two of Ireland's largest maritime festival. Galway was bathing in sunshine for day two of SeaFest, and the good weather attracted thousands to the Harbour and Docks.

A search and research demonstration from the Irish Coast Guard showed visitors how the team and volunteers respond to incidents at sea. The action on the water continued with three world-class flyboarders, Mark Baxter, Scotty Knemeyer and Cooper Riggs, performing tricks and daring manoeuvers in the heart of Galway Harbour.

Visitors also took to the water and gave kayaking and sailing a go, with Irish Sailing also offering disabled access for budding sailors. One of the newest vessels in the Irish Navy, LE William Butler Yeats, the Commissioners of Irish Lights vessel the Granuaile, and the Marine Institute's research vessel the RV Celtic Explorer, and pelagic trawler Girl Stephanie were all open for tours.

There were three engaging talks from multi-award winning cameraman, Doug Allan, in The Atlantic Theatre, and another three are taking place on Sunday. From marine biology, diving and filming at the poles, Doug Allan shared some memorable moments from behind the lens. There were also screenings of the documentary Ireland's Deep Atlantic and the Irish animation Song of the Sea.29/06/2018 report free: LT Maria O'Callaghan, Executive Office WB Yeats and Cerys Johnston ,Craughwell 6, at SeaFest, Ireland's national maritime festival, which continues at galway Harbour till Sunday night with loads of Science Ships and excursions for all ages. Photo : Andrew Downes, xposure.

BIM and Bord Bia hosted a showcase of Irish seafood as well as live cookery and fishmongery demonstrations with some of Ireland's top chefs. Galway food producers and restaurateurs also hosted seafood cooking classes at the Gastronomy Showcase Van.

Kids are enjoying the oceans of fun, free activities on offer including LEGO workshops, art and craft, touch tank displays and lots of interactive games. Galway City Museum also hosted Fishy Faces workshops for kids, with some workshops run in partnership with Galway Autism. The huge display from The Defence Forces was again popular with the young and the young at heart.

Today, Sunday 1st July is the third and final day of SeaFest 2018, with most activities taking place from 10am to 6pm. For more information and the full festival programme visit www.seafest.ie