TRAVEL: Beware the Viking Invasion

When the Vikings arrive in town, there’s nothing subtle about it and this year’s Irish Maritime Festival at Drogheda Port promises to be spectacular.

The award-winning festival takes place on 9 and 10 July and the River Boyne will take centre stage.

Speaking at the recent launch, Festival Producer Karen healy explained “The action on the historic River Boyne all weekend is not to be missed.

Over 200 swimmers will take part in the gruelling Boyne Swim. Yachts from the east Coast will challenge each other to win the howth-Drogheda Yacht Race while rafts and rowing boats will also row for victory. Check out the manoeuvres of the Fireboat and the Irish Coast Guard.

“But most importantly, watch out for the Viking Invasion at Drogheda Port explains Mayor of Drogheda Cllr. Paul Bell “The Viking Longboats will arrive bringing with them a hoard of marauding Vikings. They will set up camp at the Port and visitors are welcome to visit their Viking Village to learn how to live life as a Viking. Play your cards right and the visiting Vikings might also take you on a trip down the River Boyne on their Viking ships.

“As always, the Festival is a brilliant event for families. Children will enjoy the Pirate Parade, Viking Ships, water displays, storytelling, paper boat races, Billy Bubbles, archaeology digs, special kids cookery demos and much, much more.”

“For 2016, we’re also paying special attention to activities for teens and grown-ups. Festival-goers can look forward to fantastic fashion and beauty events with celebrity blogger James Patrice and the Make Up Fairy.”