BELFAST — This July, the inner harbor of Belfast will transform into a lively international community and traditional boating festival as it hosts the Atlantic Challenge International Contest of Seamanship.

Young adult crews from a dozen nations will convene to showcase their maritime skills in a series of spectator-friendly events which test elements of sailing, rowing, navigation, knots, and docking. The boats used are 38 feet long Bantry Bay gigs; Admiral’s gigs of the 18th century French navy. Equipped with ten oars, and three dipping lug-rigged sails, they require intensive orchestration and team work to maneuver.

Daily evening entertainment in Steamboat Landing Park features: live music, contradances, DJ social dances, AC crew-talent shows and open mics.

Open to the public; tickets at the door by donation.

July 21-28, 2024 atlanticchallengeusa.org Arista Holden, Executive Director of Atlantic Challenge USA, Organizer of the 2024 Contest. arista@atlanticchallengeusa.org, 207-610-9554, atlanticchallengeusa.org