Brest launches boat festival

Around 2,000 boats from tall ships to dinghies are taking part in a week-long maritime event.

The Fete de la Passion Maritime at Brest sees boats from 25 nations visiting the Breton city including 60 tall ships and historic replicas

Around the city’s chateau, commercial and historic ports there are 300 exhibitions ranging from scientific studies of the poles and boat building, to the relationship between the sea and food.

The quaysides are themed by several countries which are honoured at this year’s festival; Madagascar, Vietnam, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, Galicia and Croatia.

Each country will also have its own themed day during the festival.

The event runs until July 17 with daily parades of boats and sailors as well as fireworks and music.

For more information visit the website www.brest2008.fr

Photo: GUILLAUME Dominique