The highly anticipated Seychelles Ocean Festival (SOF) officially opened for 2024 on the evening of 27th November at the National Museum of Seychelles. Originally under the name SUBIOS (Sub Indian Ocean Seychelles), the festival has grown into a key event in Seychelles’ annual calendar and has since expanded to include a wide variety of sectors, from sailing and water sports to sustainable seafood gastronomy and diving.
This year’s SOF will highlight the many facets of Seychelles’ marine ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community involvement. Running from 28th to 30th November, the festival brings together a variety of activities centred on sustainability, education, and community engagement, showcasing both the beauty and fragility of Seychelles’ marine environment.
The opening ceremony was a colourful affair, transforming the museum into an underwater wonderland adorned with striking decorations that highlighted the theme of ocean conservation. Guests were treated to engaging performances by local students, including heartfelt renditions of Dan Lanmer and I Am the Earth by students from Children’s House, celebrating the natural world and the importance of protecting it. Additionally, Kaela from English River Secondary School presented a poem, reinforcing the festival’s message of environmental stewardship.
Mrs. Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary for the Tourism Department, officially opened the event, emphasising the importance of both celebrating and conserving the oceans. She highlighted the significant role the ocean plays in the islands’ communities, economy, and identity. “Our oceans are at the heart of the Seychelles experience,” she noted.
She also introduced the festival’s special exhibition, describing it as a departure from traditional displays, with a digital and sustainability-focused approach. Developed in collaboration with the Save Our Seas Foundation and the National History Museum, the exhibition not only showcases underwater photography but also serves as a call to action for ocean conservation.
Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Destination Marketing, echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the shared responsibility to protect the oceans. “Our oceans are not only vital to our livelihood but are the heart of our tourism, our culture, and our future,” she stated.
Mrs. Willemin called for renewed commitment to ocean conservation, expressing hope for an inspiring and impactful celebration. She encouraged everyone to stay dedicated to ensuring the oceans thrive for future generations.
The event’s success is the result of the hard work and dedication of many organisations, including Save Our Seas, the Seychelles Island Foundation (SIF), the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), the Ministry of Education, the Seychelles Coast Guard, and the Seychelles Defence Forces, among others.
As the Seychelles Ocean Festival 2024 continues throughout the week, visitors and locals alike are encouraged to participate in a range of activities that not only showcase the island’s natural beauty but also promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
