Rumor has it that pirates are plotting to “invade” Gallants Channel in Beaufort during Maritime Day set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 12.
The Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum nonprofit organization is hosting the free community event, held every year on the second Saturday in June. The event stems from the National Maritime Day created by Congress in 1933 and observed annually on May 22.
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Gallants Channel is at 293 West Beaufort Road, near the foot of the high-rise bridge in Beaufort. All activities are free though donations are appreciated.
North Carolina Maritime Museum Associate Curator Christine Brin is a familiar face at Maritime Day, having taken part in the event for years. This year she will be trying something new. Brin will be operating a remote operated vehicle underwater and livestreaming the footage.
“I can’t wait to see what we discover in Gallants Channel,” she said. “Could be all murky, might find some sea animals, maybe even a mermaid!”
Friends Director of Operations Brent Creelman said the local community event offers family-friendly fun in a beautiful setting.
“I think everyone is really ready to get together and celebrate again,” Creelman said in a statement. “And we’re looking forward to helping them do that.”
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The variety of free activities planned, like the popular sailboat rides, offer a broad appeal Creelman said. Other activities include kayaking, cane pole fishing, kite flying, nature trail tours, kids’ activities, live music and games.
Food trucks will be on site, and beer and wine will be for sale. The event closes at 2 p.m. with a celebration on the waterfront to recognize those who have purchased personalized bricks for the courtyard by the flagpole.
For those heading into Beaufort that day, the museum will be hosting a book sale on the front patio from 9 a.m. to noon. The museum will also be opening at 9 a.m., an hour early, to welcome book shoppers.
For more information on Maritime Day or the Friends of the North Carolina Maritime Museum, call (252) 728-1638 or visit maritimefriends.org.
