The 2nd Maritime Science Festival: Gdynia blends innovation, tradition, and the spirit of the sea

A celebration of science with a maritime pulse

The Festival opened on Thursday, June 5, at the university’s main campus on Morska Street. The day featured open-access laboratories, hands-on demonstrations, and thematic workshops designed to demystify science and technology. Visitors explored topics like the growing significance of composite materials, practical uses of VR in education, and the science behind healthy eating.

The academic presentations went beyond theory, tackling issues relevant to modern maritime industries: the origin of the nautical "gangway whistle," the concept of “smart ports,” and how contemporary challenges parallel the symbolic battles of Don Quixote. With a focus on accessibility and inspiration, Thursday’s program made science both engaging and tangible.

Immersive experiences by the sea

Friday's activities took place at the Faculty of Navigation, ideally located along Gdynia’s waterfront at al. Jana Pawła II 3. A highlight of the day was a dynamic life raft deployment demonstration—offering a rare look at how a compact container can rapidly inflate into a 25-person emergency raft. Attendees gained critical insights into maritime survival strategies and onboard emergency protocols.

Additional presentations showcased naval traditions upheld by the University’s Representative Company, highlighting maritime ceremonial customs still honored today. The planetarium shows at the Andrzej Ledóchowski Planetarium offered a voyage into the cosmos, delighting audiences across all age groups with four themed sessions.

Maritime picnic: where community meets the sea

The Festival concluded on Saturday, June 7, with a lively Maritime Picnic, once again hosted at the Faculty of Navigation. The event transformed the harbor area into a hub of educational and recreational activities. University research units, student science clubs (ISLT, Seaquest, Nautica), and maritime services including the Border Guard and Gdynia Police prepared interactive stands and public demonstrations.

Children enjoyed creative zones featuring nautical-themed coloring, face painting, and temporary tattoos, while families engaged with maritime professionals and researchers in an informal, festive setting. A standout moment was the sea shanty competition, where singers vied for applause on the picnic stage. The audience didn’t just listen—they joined in, celebrating Gdynia’s deep-rooted musical heritage.

Book launch: “Miś the Sailor Dog”

A heartwarming addition to the Festival was the official launch of “Miś marynarz” (Miś the Sailor Dog), a beautifully illustrated children’s book penned by Małgorzata Sokołowska. The story recounts the real-life adventures of Miś, a beloved canine crew member aboard the legendary training ship Dar Pomorza.

The book, brought to life with illustrations by Marta Debis and historical consultation by Capt. Mirosław Peszkowski (former commander of the Dar Młodzieży), offers younger readers a unique window into life at sea. The launch event was held outside the Faculty of Navigation, with attendees receiving signed copies and meeting the author in person.

Maritime identity in motion

The 2nd Maritime Science Festival has clearly evolved into more than just an academic gathering—it’s a reflection of Gdynia’s maritime identity and an invitation for the public to experience the intersection of knowledge, culture, and sea. Through collaboration, creativity, and community spirit, the University of Gdynia Maritime continues to lead as a beacon of maritime excellence and innovation.

As the Festival anchors another successful edition, it leaves behind not only memories, but a strengthened bridge between science and society—one wave at a time.