The Virgin of Carmen sails the bay of Puerto de La Luz surrounded by thousands of faithful

La Isleta came out in force this Sunday for the traditional maritime procession of the Virgin of Carmen, which sailed the bay of Puerto de La Luz escorted by dozens of vessels.

The image of the Virgin of Carmen set off shortly after 19:00 from the parish of Nuestra Señora del Carmen, on Benartemi Street, after the mass. Carried on the shoulders of her bearers, she traversed the streets of the neighbourhood amidst applause and petals, as hundreds of locals and visitors crowded the sidewalks to see her pass.

The climax came when the statue was embarked on the Spanish Navy action ship Tornado, at the dock of Puerto de La Luz. From there, she began her journey through the bay, a sight that gathers thousands of people both on land and at sea every year.

A journey escorted by maritime fervour

Dozens of fishing boats, tugboats, pleasure craft, and jet skis escorted the Virgin during her navigation. The sirens of the boats sounded in unison as the patroness passed, creating an emotional atmosphere for those present.

One of the most moving moments was the floral offering in memory of deceased sailors, accompanied by the strains of the Salve Marinera that resonated from various points along the waterfront. Entire families, former sailors, and young people shared space in a celebration that transcends the religious.

A Tenerife bearer repeats the experience

Iván Medina, a bearer from Tenerife, arrived with his family to participate for the fourth time in the La Isleta festivities. A bearer of the Virgin of Carmen in Puerto de la Cruz, he stated that “as long as I have strength, I will keep coming until I die”. He asks the Virgin for unity for all families and thanks her for the gift of life.

The maritime procession of the Virgin of Carmen is, year after year, one of the great symbols of identity for the La Isleta neighbourhood and one of the most recognisable images in the festive calendar of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. For the locals, it represents an intergenerational meeting point that strengthens community ties.

The day concluded with the return of the statue to her parish, where she will remain until next year. Those who could not attend can still enjoy images of the journey in the gallery published by the City Council.