Estimated reading time: 1 minute
On the last Sunday of June, Gdynia’s Kościuszko Square came alive with vibrant celebrations and a festive picnic in honor of Navy Day. This annual event marks the culmination of the Sea Festival, a tradition deeply rooted in Polish maritime history for over 90 years.
The day commenced at 10:30 am with a solemn gathering attended by General Wiesław Kukuła, the Commander-in-Chief of the Polish Armed Forces, and the stirring rendition of the Polish national anthem aboard the historic destroyer ORP Błyskawica. A grand parade and wreath-laying ceremony took place in front of the Polish Navy Monument, followed by a resounding noon cannon salute from the ORP Błyskawica.
The festivities continued throughout the late afternoon with a mariners’ picnic and captivating water displays by the naval personnel. Enthusiasts had the opportunity to explore the decks of four naval vessels: the patrol corvette ORP Ślązak, the mine hunter ORP Mewa, the guided-missile frigate ORP Piorun, and the celebrated museum ship, ORP Błyskawica.