Boat Festival
Tarbert Harbour was busy with boating action last weekend as the Traditional Boat Festival got underway.
DESPITE the changeable weather, the sixth annual Tarbert Traditional Boat Festival brought plenty of maritime fun to the harbour last weekend.
A varied programme included a number of boats – many of which are converted or renovated fishing vessels – tied up at Tarbert’s marina. Owners gladly chatted to visitors and enthusiasts about their beloved craft, while there was the opportunity to go aboard some vessels to get a feel for life on the sea.
The inclement weather on Saturday did not deter hardy visitors from getting involved at the harbour.
The ever-popular greasy pole attracted a select bunch of dogged contestants to take on the challenge, dangling above the chilly waters of Tarbert harbour while the Scottish Traction Engine Society gave tours round the marina on a steam-powered cart to admire and even have a ride on for the younger visitors.
In the marquee, there were stalls selling wares and information displays about the boats and marine safety.
The RNLI had a packed sales stall, selling all sorts of toys and trinkets, to help raise funds for the organisation.
On the safety theme, Sylvie and Peter Howland from the RNLI community safety team were there to hand out advice on the prevention of emergencies and explained a bit about the rescue process, through the organisation’s campaign Respect the Water.
A special stall, manned by Fiona Malkin and Sue Wood of the Ring Net Heritage Trust, was dedicated to the history and heritage of ring net fishing in the area, making specific reference to the famous Shemaron ring net boat based in Tarbert.
Saturday evening wound down with the community ceilidh – music in the marquee, accompanied by some top-notch seafood supplied by the Anchor Hotel.
A more genteel day followed, as crews ventured out to Loch Fyne for a Sunday sail, giving everyone a chance to see the traditional boats in their natural environment, sailing on the waves.