Clipper celebration continues on Foyle

The 10 68-foot cutters now grace the city’s quayside which has become a flurry of activity in recent days, and the festival is certainly in full swing, with thousands of visitors already turning up to enjoy the spectacle over the weekend.

The vessels completed their trans-Atlantic voyage over the course of the weekend arriving to a heroes’ welcome on the Foyle.

And while the crews enjoy the hospitality and home comforts of the host city, there’s still a further five days of fun-filled entertainment lined up for visitors. From 10am each day, a jam-packed programme of water based and quayside activities have been organised with a strong family friendly ethos.

At the start of the week boat enthusiasts could board the impressive Clipper vessels, and get a lesson in round the world sailing from the crews. Or why not jump on board the Maid of Antrim and the Wee Blue Boat from the Tour Boat Pontoon and enjoy a scenic trip down the Foyle.

For those of you who prefer to keep your feet on dry land, the Queen’s Quay has been transformed into a Clipper Village, with everything from heritage and maritime educational zones, to a maritime café.

Families can get creative and participate in a variety of interactive and fun workshops that will be running until Sunday July 8. There will be plenty to see and do with street performances and animation, and the People’s Platform stage will be showcasing local artists from musicians, standup comedians and poetry performances.

The NIEA boats will be open for public viewing from Thursday July 5, as will the impressive Earl of Pembroke Tall Ship.

From Thursday to Sunday food lovers will be delighted to hear that the popular Continental Market will take up residence along the Quayside, with its impressive array of goods from distant shores, as well as some homespun favourites to tantalize the tastebuds. Sample Spanish paella, fine French pastries, robust German sausage, and cheeses from around the world, to name but a few of the culinary delights on display.

Ebrington Parade ground will play host to a musical extravaganza on Thursday July 5 and Friday July 6, with two top class Clipper concerts. The Undertones will take to the stage on Thursday, heading up a cast of the finest local talent at the Legenderry concert. While Friday sees the Saw Doctors and Red Hot Chilli Pipers take to the stage for a special Clipper Connections Concert.

Earlier on Friday, the Foyle will be a hub of activity as the waterbased activities continue over the weekend. The Queen’s Quay will be swarming with arts and crafts exhibitions and activities to keep everyone entertained.

On Saturday, July 6, the Clipper yachts will depart in a magnificent Parade of Sail down the River Foyle between 1 and 2pm, while at 3pm the exciting Zap Cats will take to the river for some racing and water displays. These will continue into Sunday July 8, when the festival celebrations draw to a close and the Clipper yachts will be en-route to Amsterdam and then Southampton for the race finale.

Further details about the Clipper homecoming festival visit – www.derrycity.gov.uk/clipper or follow us on Facebook.