Navy action lined up for Durban Port Festival
Get down to the port of Durban to find out more about the SA Navy.
![SAS Drakensberg is one of four SA Navy vessels that will be open to the public as part of the Durban Port Festival in the Port of Durban from 18 to 19 June.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/51/2016/06/PORT.jpg)
THE South African Navy will bring four naval ships and highly trained forces to Durban’s shores as part of its World Hydrography Day celebrations, which run alongside Transnet National Ports Authority’s Durban Port Festival from 18 to 19 June.
Observed officially on 21 June, World Hydrography Day is a global commemoration that celebrates the art and science of hydrography and its importance for all shipping and recreational use of waterways. Durban last played host to this South African Navy celebration in 2013 and this year’s activities will tie into a weekend of free portside fun lined up by South Africa’s port authority.
From Saturday, 18 to Sunday, 19 June port-goers can board and tour four real-life SA Navy ships stationed at the N Shed passenger terminal in the Port of Durban.
The SA Navy will also have its diving display tank present on site for the public to interact with SA Navy divers.
In addition Transnet National Ports Authority has made available some of its tugboats to enable the public to get on board and enjoy free tug rides.
Another guaranteed highlight will be the free SA Navy Band gala performance at the City Hall on the evening of Friday, 17 June, featuring the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir and the Umlazi High School Choir. The free concert starts at 7pm.