Falmouth’s vibrant harbourside will be awash with watersports activities when it hosts its inaugural Marine Market this summer.

The stunning coastline and inlets of the world’s third largest deep-water harbour is a magnet for sea-lovers. Thousands of kayakers, rowers, divers, surfers and sailors take to its waters every year and the idyllic setting boasts an abundance of offshore activities to suit all ages and experience.

And from July 26th to 29th the best of Cornwall’s maritime businesses are coming together to display their goods and services at Falmouth’s first ever Marine Market.

The fun-packed festivities at the lively Events Square are a great opportunity to learn more about the wealth of watersports on offer in an area rich in maritime history and culture.

Tim Bowerbank, marketing manager of Cornwall Marine Network, said: “There will be something for everyone. It is a chance for hardened sailors to further their knowledge and to purchase new kit, for watersports fanatics to try out a different offshore pursuit, and for all those dreamers who just want to get out on the water and feel the wind on their cheek. By combining Falmouth’s ideal location with so much expertise, the Marine Market provides everything you need for adrenaline-pumping fun out on the water.”

Among the exhibitors are Cornish-based Challenger Marine chandlers, C-bear outdoor clothing suppliers and Gecko safety helmet manufacturers, who will all be demonstrating and selling their wares.

Local yacht charterers The Real Boat Company and Golden Black Sailing will be promoting their extensive packages, from calm coastal cruises to exhilarating ocean sailing. And Macgregor Yachts will be inviting people to clamber on board its revolutionary Macgregor 26 power sailor - a trailerable cross between a yacht and a powerboat.

Adventurous visitors to the must-go event will be invited to get their feet wet with ‘Have a Go’ activity sessions run by qualified watersports instructors. Experts will be on hand to give advice on technique, equipment and training and provide information about membership of local clubs.

Or if you would rather keep your feet dry while experiencing the thrill of the sea, pop into the adjacent National Maritime Museum and learn how British heroes tackled the oceans at its Endurance and Survival exhibition.

Tamsin Loveless, of the National Maritime Museum, said: “The Marine Market will add to Events Square’s presence, which has a lot of energy and retail activity. We will be at the market selling museum gifts and promoting the museum.”

Once you have worked up an appetite, you can tuck into some delicious freshly-caught food at the event’s Seafood Market.

The Marine Market complements the 2006 Interceltic Watersports Festival, which was last hosted by Cornwall eight years ago and is expected to attract crowds of up to 50,000. The Festival will culminate with a prize-giving ceremony at Events Square on July 29th.

Samantha Groom, tourism officer for Carrick District Council, said: “We want holidaymakers to embrace our wonderful facilities which cater for families, individuals and people of all ages. This is a fantastic chance for our marine businesses to come together and promote their services and products and we hope to make it an annual event.”

• The Marine Market will be held from July 26 to 29 from 10am to 7pm at Event Square.
• Event Square is at the South-Eastern end of Falmouth’s harbourside, between the main shopping area and Falmouth Docks.
• For more information about the Marine Market, visit: www.intercelticwatersportsfestival.com.