United by the Sea: Gdynia Honors Shipbuilders and Navy Personnel

On the last Sunday of June, Gdynia once again proved that it is not only a city by the sea, but also a city for the people of the sea. The culmination of the Sea Festival celebrations brought together two great forces: the Polish Navy and the Polish shipbuilding industry. Side by side with residents and visitors, sailors and shipyard workers celebrated Navy Day and Shipbuilder’s Day — two occasions deeply rooted in Gdynia’s traditions and the broader history of Poland’s coast.

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29 june 2025 | 21:18 | Source: Gazeta Morska | Prepared by: Kamil Kusier | Print

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It was a Sunday full of emotions, symbolism, and pride — pride in who we are as a community connected by the Baltic. For the first time in decades, Gdynia held an official celebration dedicated to the people of the shipyards, whose work has long provided the industrial backbone for Poland’s naval strength. At the same time, the Polish Navy — a historic pillar of the city — reaffirmed its enduring place in both national memory and modern defense.

A Sea in Motion

The festivities began with a vibrant parade through the city. Shipyard workers, sailors, maritime school students, and representatives of the political and local government spheres all marched together from Armii Krajowej Street to the legendary ORP Błyskawica. The parade was led by the Polish Navy Representative Orchestra, setting a solemn and emotional tone.

The waterfront greeted participants with ceremonial drills, performances by the AMW Arka Gdynia cheerleaders, and open decks on three naval vessels: the hydrographic ship ORP Arctowski, the minehunter ORP Mewa, and the iconic ORP Błyskawica, now serving as a museum ship.

Along the historic pier, the shipbuilding and navy village buzzed with activity — where modern technologies met craftsmanship, tradition, and education. Leading companies from the maritime sector showcased their achievements, while military equipment and interactive booths captivated entire families.

From Tradition to Tomorrow

– This celebration unites our entire society because Gdynia’s connection to the sea is timeless. In this way, we continue the pre-war tradition of Sea Festival, which now takes on a new, contemporary meaning, said Maciej Zielonka, Deputy Mayor of Gdynia.

Lt. Commander Anna Sech, spokesperson for the 3rd Flotilla of Ships, added:

– Even though Navy Day is now officially celebrated on November 28, Gdynia remains its natural home. That’s why, together with the shipbuilding industry, we decided to unite both worlds into one great, shared celebration. The sea connects us — both literally and symbolically.

These remarks reflect a broader context: Gdynia today not only reminds us of our maritime heritage but also points toward the future — a future of professions returning to prominence, of technologies reshaping Poland’s maritime presence, and of values deeply ingrained in our national identity.

Shipyards Return to the Forefront

– There are three things that have always been part of Gdynia’s DNA: the Navy, the shipyards, and the ports," said Marcin Ryngwelski, CEO of PGZ Naval Shipyard. - Today, our shipyards are experiencing a true renaissance. We’re building frigates, rescue ships, and modernizing naval units. The profession of the shipbuilder is gaining prestige again — and we want to show the world.

Indeed, PGZ Naval Shipyard, along with Crist, Nauta, and Remontowa Shipbuilding, proudly presented their recent projects, emphasizing that Polish shipbuilding remains a dynamic and strategic contributor to national maritime security.

People of the Sea, People of Community

On stage, performers connected to the Navy and local cultural institutions brought rhythm and spirit to the day: the Polish Navy Representative Orchestra, the vocal ensemble from the Navy Club “Riwiera,” and the Kosakowo Municipality Brass Band. And of course, the traditional military pea soup was served — a symbolic and practical gesture of shared community.

This day confirmed a simple truth: the sea does not divide us — the sea unites us. And in an ever-changing world, Gdynia still speaks with the clear, strong voice of those who live and work by the water. Sailors and shipbuilders stood side by side, showing that celebration can be both a return to heritage and a bold signal for the future: Polish maritime industries are strong — and their future is built on pride, ambition, and innovation.

Daily Mare & Maritime Wishes

On the occasion of Navy Day and Shipbuilder’s Day, the editorial team of Daily Mare extends its heartfelt wishes to all sailors, shipbuilders, port workers, and maritime industry professionals — past and present. We wish you health, recognition, prosperity, and safe service and work at sea and ashore.

May the deep bond with the sea — which for generations has shaped the character of Poland’s coast — remain a source of pride, resilience, and unity. We see and support your efforts, and we appreciate every pair of hands that builds and maintains Poland’s maritime strength.

We are especially proud that PGZ Naval Shipyard, a cornerstone of modern Polish naval engineering, is a partner of Daily Mare. Equally important to us is our close and growing cooperation with the Polish Navy and the Polish Naval Academy — an honor and responsibility we embrace with full commitment as we continue to report on and support the people of the sea.