Lively and Lovely Days at the Harbour Front
In sunny spring weather, the number of visitors exceeded all expectations – people from Hamburg and all over the world enjoyed three days of music, maritime events and culinary delights.
A Unique Diversity of Vessels
The ships traditionally form the core of the PORT ANNIVERSARY: 250 ships were officially part of this year's off-shore programme with maritime events, parades and presentations. Around 350 other vessels – including private sailing, sports and motor boats vessels – took part in the maritime spectacle in perfect spring weather, creating an impressive scene on the River Elbe. Many visitors arrived on the water: seven cruise ships docked in Hamburg especially for their with their passengers to experience the PORT ANNIVERSARY. Countless ships opened their decks to visitors as part of the Open Ship event. The impressive variety of vessels on display can be seen in the traditional Grand Arrival and Departure Parades as well as the unique Tugboat Ballet – highlights that have been showcasing Hamburg's maritime heart for years.
New programme items on the water also attracted a great deal of attention: the parade of the DLRG (the German Lifeguard Association), the ceremonial christening of two new hybrid police boats, the presentation of three generations of ferries of the HADAG Hamburg Ferry Company, and the impressive appearance of the Federal Police made a strong impression – and made a connection between technological innovation and maritime tradition.
Elbe in Concert – Top Live Acts on a Floating Stage
One of the highlights of the three-day festival was ‘Elbe in Concert’: for the second year running, a 2,500 square metre floating stage, unique in the world, was erected in front of the Landungsbrücken, where thrilling evening shows were staged for everyone to see. Top acts such as Nina Chuba, Johannes Oerding, David Puentez and Wincent Weiss rocked the harbour. The traditional highlight on Saturday is the big fireworks display over the Elbe. This year again, it enchanted the harbour mile for about 15 minutes with a sparkling light show – and brought the day to a spectacular close.
Cultural, Culinary and Community Events for All Generations
But the celebration was not just restricted to the water – on the shore, there was also a lot going on: a varied family programme offered hands-on activities, adventure playgrounds and fascinating insights into life on and around the water. Numerous stages provided live music and shows for a great atmosphere – from sea shanties to chart hits and techno beats. The queer community gathered for the Harbour Pride event at the Fish Market auction hall. At Kehrwiederspitze, this year's partner country invited visitors to get more familiar with Austria's Burgenland region.
