The coastline vibrated to the rhythm of maritime passions
On June 6, the Fête de la Mer et du Nautisme gathered a large crowd at port Miramar for free activities.
On June 6, a flagship event of the early season, the Fête de la Mer et du Nautisme took place in the setting of port Miramar and on the surrounding beaches.
This day of free activities and initiations, inaugurated by François de Canson, gathered a large audience: families, sports enthusiasts, locals, and vacationers who shared the same passion for the Méditerranée and water sports.
Part of the national framework of the Fête de la Mer et des Littoraux, this event is an exceptional showcase of local expertise, combining board sports, maritime traditions, and environmental awareness.
Nautical flea markets
As the nerve center of the event, port Miramar was transformed into a large nautical village. Throughout the day, the quays welcomed a multitude of stands run by industry professionals, passionate associations, and artisans.
Bargain hunters strolled through the aisles of the traditional nautical flea markets, looking for rare parts or marine equipment. The festive and friendly atmosphere allowed for rich exchanges between maritime professionals and the general public.
Beach activities
The event extended beyond the port's pontoons, taking over the beautiful beaches to offer a catalog of free activities.
On the plage Miramar, the sand was the playground for ball enthusiasts. The sports department of the Ville supervised beach soccer tournaments, while the Volley Club Hyères Pierrefeu La Londe orchestrated beach volleyball sessions. In the mid-morning, the "GRL & Bien-être" stroll brought a touch of serenity to the shore.
On the plage de l'Argentière, water sports were in the spotlight. ASPTT Voile La Londe offered introductory catamaran and monohull sessions, while the Sea Sun structure proposed discovery sessions to learn sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
As for scuba diving, partner centers Dune and Aqualonde allowed as many people as possible to discover the discipline, with free initiations where participants experienced the sensations of diving in complete safety.
SNSM volunteers
To extend the festivities, local partnerships, notably with the restaurant Le Canevas, allowed visitors to enjoy "Menu Plongeur" options and discounts throughout the day.
The festival also celebrated those who watch over the safety of users. The volunteers of the SNSM (Société Nationale de Sauveteurs en Mer) marked the day with demonstrations of lifesaving techniques, recalling the crucial importance of safety at sea.
Marine ecology in the spotlight
The focus was also on marine ecology at the Pôle Nautique, which hosted documentary film screenings presented by the Festival de Plongée Var Environnement, notably the educational film "Simon l'escargot ou bouteille plastique à la mer" and the report "Objectif Zéro Déchet".
On the quays, a photographic exhibition highlighted the Biohut fish nurseries, an innovative device installed under the port's pontoons to restore biodiversity.
Sea and land excursions
For those who preferred to gaze at the deep blue sea from the decks, Les Bateliers de la Côte d’Azur offered free guided coastal outings. Three rotations took passengers on a 45-minute cruise to the outskirts of the famous Fort de Brégançon.
On land, the mythical Petit Train offered lively, narrated walks set to the rhythm of traditional songs along the Quai Lamoudru, guaranteeing a folkloric moment of sharing accessible to all.
Article from the print edition of La Gazette du Var