This weekend marked the arrival of Volvo Ocean Race as Cardiff becomes host-city for the international sailing series' only UK stop-over. To mark the occasion industry experts from Europe and the UK have come together to celebrate Wales' Year of the Sea and explore a new vision for Cardiff Bay.

A two-day conference organised in partnership with Cardiff Harbour Authority and The Maritime Heritage Trust reflects on Cardiff's maritime heritage and the role it has played in shaping Cardiff Bay and the future of its economic and cultural development. Showcasing sustainable projects based on all aspects of maritime heritage, industry experts will explore the challenge of raising finance to make these projects happen.

Cllr Huw Thomas said: "Cardiff was once the world's biggest coal exporting port and played a significant role the world's economy. Deindustrialisation however meant Cardiff Bay sought regeneration, with a new focus on attracting people and visitors. We recognise that in order for Cardiff to continue as a leading waterfront destination, we need to set a refreshed vision for Cardiff Bay as a leisure destination in order to sustain the momentum of the last 20 years

"The Volvo Ocean Race not only affirms our ability to host major international events, specifically showcasing Cardiff Bay to a whole new audience, but also presents the opportunity to bring experts in waterfront regeneration to Cardiff to reflect on its past and consider its future."

Highlights from today's programme (Wednesday 30^th)include: 

-         Finding inspiration in a changing world for heritage,Matthew Tanner, Chief Exec of ss Great Britain & Brunel Institute

-         Tackling the skills challenge and engaging young people in conservation, Piran Harte and Victoria Wallworth, National Historic Ships UK

-         Making a project thrive - pointers from successful small museums, Emma Chaplin, Director, Association of Independent Museums

A spokesperson from the Maritime Heritage Trust said: "Heritage is at the heart of our identity and maritime, transport and industrial particularly so in Cardiff. This Conference will help share techniques to cherish and preserve what we have and inspire the future.

The two day program will take place at The Coal Exchange and Wales Millennium Centreand host over 20 different speakers sharing their knowledge of maritime heritage.

A series of evening events organised by Tourism Consultant, Professor Terry Stevens will take place at Wales Millennium Centre this evening and celebrateWales' outstanding coastline and the epic experiences all around its shores.