Messina and Comacchio revive historic boat festivals in Italy

Messina in Sicily will host the third edition of “Xiphias. La Historica Caccia al Pescespada” on 2 August at Lago Grande di Ganzirri. The staged reenactment recreates the ancient sword‑fish fishing technique using traditional felucca and luntro boats. Coordinated by the Società Cooperativa Simone, the event includes a Latin sailboat regatta, single and double rowing races, and participation from local fishermen and a range of maritime associations. Mayor Federico Basile and several municipal officials attended the opening.

In the town of Comacchio, Emilia‑Romagna, the “Regate nelle Valli” festival celebrated traditional rowing. Boats were blessed before the Cathedral of San Cassiano, with mayor Samuele Bellotti present. Organized by Barche Storiche Comacchio together with the municipality, the Emilia‑Romagna region and the Po Delta Park, the day featured rowing competitions that serve as a technical test ahead of the major Regata di San Cassiano scheduled for 13 August. The festival highlights the preservation of the lagoon’s historic nautical culture.