More than 70 vendors took part in the St George’s Marine Expo.

Hundreds of people turned out for the annual event, which featured experiences including Hobie Wave “taster” sailings for children by the Endeavour programme as well as Marine and Ports pilot boat tours, pilot gig tasters, cars and motorboat races.

Boat dealers, marine accessories and service providers, government and environmental agencies, water sport organisations, food art and children’s activity vendors took part.

U-Sail Bermuda’s second year of participation in the expo provided foiling Laser and Aero sessions, accompanied by an introduction to foiling presentation with the founder, Maja Penruddocke.

“We received lots of positive feedback by visitors to what a good idea this event is to showcase Bermuda’s marine industry,” Mr Penruddocke said. “We can only recommend this event, appreciate the organisers’ time spent to make it happen and we are very proud to have been a part of it.”

Fishing boats lined the docks and filleting of the haul for the day took place on site.

The event, which took place on May 19, was opened by Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport, and the lead sponsor was Rubis. Other sponsors included the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation and the St George’s Foundation.

The Bermuda Power Boat Association staged its race season opener at the event.

Ray Lambert, the BEDC’s director micro, small and medium enterprises and co-organiser of the event said: “It is important to continue the annual celebration of Bermuda’s marine history and culture and to share the opportunities that the industry provides.”

This was the fourth edition of the expo and Mr Lambert added: “Every year we continue to grow the event through participation and feature experiences and this year was no different.

“We thank all the participating sponsors and vendors for their help in making the Expo come alive. Their continued support ensures the success of this event.”

Ms Foggo took the opportunity to praise Expo participants the Endeavour programme and the Bermuda Sloop Foundation, “which are doing an excellent job turning the island’s young people into skilled seamen and women and budding new business owners”, the Minister said.

Graham Redford, general manager of Rubis Energy Bermuda Ltd, said: “Rubis recognises the expo as a key event for St George’s and having our headquarters located in the town, it makes perfect sense for us to continue to support an event like this that celebrates our maritime culture and history.”