DUBAI // Captains, crew and those lucky enough to be invited on board celebrated National Day in style by cruising the waters of Dubai Marina as part of the third annual National Boat Parade.
Vessels adorned in UAE-themed decorations sailed to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club with hundreds of spectators lining bridges, apartment balconies and walkways to take photos.
More than 15 boats took part, from speedboats to luxury yachts, draped in the UAE’s colours, flags and images of the country’s Rulers.
One small boat even had a mock Burj Al Arab on board, while another had a miniature toy camel strapped to the front.
All were competing for the prize of Best Outfitted Vessel and were judged on parade feel, workmanship, general effect and originality.
“The key is originality and uniqueness and we want to see something that really stands out,” said Erwin Bamps, the chief executive of Gulf Cart who was one of the judges.
Another judge, Capt Neal Roche, of Motor Yacht Dubai, said: “It’s simply about representing the UAE colours and about people having fun.”
Residents spent a sunny afternoon at the Yacht Club, where there were children’s activities including a bouncy castle and face-painting. Food and massage stations were also available for the public to enjoy.
Girlie Alinda, who lives in Dubai Marina, left her nearby apartment to catch a glimpse of the parade.
“My husband was browsing the internet this morning and we thought it would be nice to stop by on the holiday,” the Filipina said.
Mariska Shikuku said the parade was a great opportunity to take her one-month-old baby and daughter, 2, outside to enjoy the fine weather.
“We wanted to come here today because it’s the UAE National Day, and we wanted to do something outdoors,” she said. “It’s a good opportunity for the children to take part in the activities and have some fresh air.”
Indian couple Ajith and Nisha enjoyed watching their first boat parade and the time off work.
“It’s our first time coming here and we really wanted to see the boats and what the people are doing with them,” Ajith said.
Nisha said: “There’s no work today and we are enjoying the holiday, so coming to Dubai Marina to see this is a great way to celebrate.”
Donna Sanchez went with her girlfriends and said they wanted to celebrate the day to express their appreciation for the country.
“Although we are not from here the UAE has become our home and we would like to celebrate and mark this day because we appreciate everything that this country has offered us,” Ms Sanchez said. “Watching the boat parade is good fun and an opportunity for us to sit together, chat and eat.”
She said she was looking forward to showing her family and friends at home in the Philippines pictures of her life in the UAE. “We also wanted to come here to post pictures on Facebook and Instagram, so everyone back home can see the beautiful things and atmosphere we have in Dubai, which we love very much.”
dmoukhallati@thenational.ae
