Oman Sailing Festival captures imagination of all ages

MUSCAT: The Oman Sailing Festival concluded in Salalah after five days of introducing visitors of all ages to Try Sailing, Try Windsurfing and Try Kitesurfing under the expert supervision of an Oman Sail instructor. In total, 288 of people visited the festival to enjoy a free session on the water, food, and entertainment, as well as an impressive array of local SMES and local craftspeople showcasing their handmade souvenirs and pieces of art.

Ali al Sheheimi, Oman Sailing Festival Manager, said, “Oman Sail began with the mission to rekindle the Sultanate of Oman’s maritime heritage, and in Salalah where this heritage is so prominent it was wonderful to see so many people taking this opportunity to learn the basics of sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

“At every stop along the coastline we have highlighted the importance of caring for the environment. As sailors we rely on clean seas, and so much of our lives is spent in the water, it is therefore essential that we all commit to doing everything we can to keeping our beautiful country clean.”

The Oman Sailing Festival returns on 24-26 November at the Barceló Mussanah Resort, during the RS Venture Connect World Championships, Oman’s first exclusively-para sailing event. On offer will be free Try Sailing, Try Windsurfing and Try Kitesurfing sessions, an exhibition of local

SMES and a beach clean, and the chance to learn how to sail using the versatile RS Venture boat designed for people with disabilities. The Oman Sailing Festival is supported by Office of the Governor of Dhofar Directorate General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar, Beach Front, Oman Air, National Mineral Water Company (Tanuf), Environment society of Oman (ESO), and National University Science and Technology (International Maritime College).

Operating under Oman Tourism Development Company, Oman Sail is tasked with rekindling the country’s maritime eminence, promote the Sultanate of Oman around the world through sailing, contribute to the sustainable prosperity of the nation and provide long-term learning opportunities for the youth.