Baltimore’s waterfront was busy with boatbuilders, rowers and families today as the West Cork harbour hosted another day of its Woodenboat and Seafood Festival.
The Baltimore Wooden Boat Festival is now well under way, with large crowds gathering around the pier and boatyard for a hands-on boatbuilding competition that became one of the day’s main attractions.
Teams of adults and children worked against the clock to build small craft before attempting to sail and row their creations across Baltimore Harbour, drawing a strong crowd of spectators along the waterfront.
Traditional rowing boats and wooden vessels were launched throughout the day, while visitors watched crews take to the water under bright early summer conditions.
The festival combines maritime heritage with community activity and local seafood, with Baltimore’s harbour and sailing traditions forming the backdrop to the weekend programme.
Young participants were at the centre of today’s activity, helping to cut timber, assemble hull panels and prepare traditional craft before launching on the water.
Several classic wooden boats were also on display afloat in Baltimore Harbour, alongside rowing demonstrations and family-friendly events around the pier.
The West Cork festival continues through the weekend with further maritime displays, seafood events and harbour activities planned.
