Pembrokeshire is following the lead of the French and staging its own version of the Semaine du Golfe, a biennial celebration of traditional craft held in Brittany's Golfe du Morbihan.

Next month's Seafair Haven is expected to attract yoles, gigs, sailing and rowing boats, classic yachts and small traditional boats to Pembrokeshire, as well as traditional sailing ships.

Up to 100 vessels can register and 78 have already signed up.

Among the large classic boats taking part in the event from June 24th to July 2nd will be the Earl of Pembroke, The Kaskalot and The Pickle - but the boat that is expected to generate the most excitement is the replica of the three-masted barque, Dunbrody, making her maiden international voyage from New Ross in County Wexford.

One yachtsman who has signed up to Seafair Haven is Bill Keppel-Compton, who lives and sails in Pembrokeshire. He is entering two classic craft - a 1937 wooden tumlare-class yacht and a Dutch gaffe ketch yacht. "Traditional maritime boat festivals are popular throughout Europe," said Bill. "Seafair Haven will not only enable boat owners to take part in traditional seamanship up and down this wonderful waterway and to come into port, it will also provide opportunities for people to closely view these craft and to enjoy the spectacle of races and other events.'' The fleet will gather at Milford Marina and the flotillas will be hosted by the communities of Neyland, Pembroke, Lawrenny and Dale. There will also be an opportunity to sail around the Pembrokeshire coastline on board the Dunbrody, contact 01646 696371 or cmc@mhpa.co.uk.