The Loughs Agency welcomed tens of thousands of people to Derry’s riverfront during the Foyle Maritime Festival at the end of June, delivering a packed programme for visitors of all ages.
Activities included canoe races, paddle boarding, kayak tours, boat critter tours and scenic twilight and moonlight paddles, helping participants discover the beauty, biodiversity and wildlife of the River Foyle.
Off the water, the Loughs Agency continued to spark interest in local waterways through interactive environmental activities designed to engage, educate and inspire visitors.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais was among those who experienced the agency’s innovative virtual reality adventure and Marine Machine.
Members of the public also practised fishing techniques, learned more about biodiversity and strengthened their awareness of local ecosystems in Northern Ireland.
Boat critter tours entertained young and old alike during the Foyle Maritime Festival from 25-28 June
Mayor Uí Niallais praised the extensive programme of activities and the ongoing work of the Loughs Agency in celebrating and protecting the River Foyle.
“The theme for the Foyle Maritime Festival, ‘Forged by the Foyle – it’s in our DNA’, placed the river front and centre of the festivities and its role in shaping this place down through the centuries.
“The Loughs Agency have a key role in protecting and promoting the legacy and vitality of the river and the wide programme of activities delivered throughout the festival really gave people the opportunity to connect with the Foyle and appreciate its significance and value. I want to congratulate the team for delivering a creative and inspiring programme throughout the festival.”
Sharon McMahon, Loughs Agency chief executive added: “The four-day event gave our team the opportunity to engage with thousands of visitors and provide a valuable environmental learning experience.
“It was wonderful to see so many people take part in activities on the Foyle and deepen their understanding of why protecting these vital ecosystems matters. Visitors experienced the Foyle in new ways and saw first-hand why it is so important to protect our waterways for future generations.”
