Discover The Wonders Of The Sea At Portaferry

Holding marine creatures, using an underwater spyball camera, squelching in the seaweed, and getting into a real marine laboratory are just some of the things you can do when our marine world is uncovered in Portaferry on Saturday 13 June.

[caption id="attachment_33242" align="alignleft" width="400"]Children explore a rock pool in Strangford Lough. Children explore a rock pool in Strangford Lough.[/caption]

“This is a rare opportunity for people to have so much sea shore and marine activity in one place” said Gillian Armstrong from the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership. “We have scientists, artists and folk who protect our marine life all coming together to share their enthusiasm and expertise with people of all ages.”

A special treat, for anyone interested in underwater photography is a presentation by Bernard Picton of the Ulster Museum who will be presenting stunning images of “The butterflies of the sea” (nudibranchs).

These are just some of the activities in this year’s Strangford Lough Festival which also features Medieval Mayhem, heritage boat tours, craft fair and even the chance to sit into the RNLI’s impressive Atlantic 85 lifeboat.

The Green in Strangford will be transformed with a music session in the yurt, a brilliant climbing wall, wood carving, and a boat display.

The Strangford Lough Festival runs from 10-14 June in Portaferry and Strangford. The events are mostly FREE, with something for everyone.

Download the programme from:

www.strangfordlough.org

or pick up a copy at Visitor Information Centres in Newtownards, Portaferry, Downpatrick, Newcastle and Newry.

To book boat trips please contact Portaferry Visitor Information Centre (VIC): Tel: 028 4272 9882 (Open Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm. Sun 1pm to 5pm)

(The Strangford Lough Festival is organised by the Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership, sponsored by EnAlgae and with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Ards and North Down Borough Council and Newry, Mourne & Down District Council.)

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