Maritime fest debuts in Port Jefferson

A new boat festival will set sail in Port Jefferson this weekend.

The PJ Boater’s Maritime Festival will take advantage of the village’s prime location on Port Jefferson Harbor. More than 10 vendors will display boats and Jet Skis, kayaks and inflatables.

“We are excited to finally celebrate and promote our maritime heritage by making our waterfront gateway more accessible and user-friendly linking visiting boaters to our merchant and artistic community,” village Mayor Margot Garant said in a release.

In addition to vendor displays, there will be live music, pirate shows and treasure hunts, children’s events with the village library, Maritime Explorium museum activities, and specials at local shops and restaurants. Many events are free.

A clam-shucking and eating contest will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Chandlery Square. Entrants should preregister with the village Chamber of Commerce or sign up Saturday at 118 West Broadway. There is a $5 entrance fee.

Law enforcement agencies will also show their patrol boats, including the Port Jefferson fire department, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron and Suffolk County police.