A Kuwaiti young diver holds a tool in Kuwait City, Kuwait, July 25, 2019. The 31st Pearl Diving Trip started on Thursday with the participation of at least 195 young Kuwaitis aged between 14 and 20. (Photo by Gazi/Xinhua)
KUWAIT CITY, July 25 (Xinhua) -- The 31st Pearl Diving Trip started on Thursday with the participation of at least 195 young Kuwaitis aged between 14 and 20.
These divers, along with their 13 wooden ships, are expected to stay at sea until Aug. 1.
"The anniversary of pearl diving will be firmly in our memories and a wonderful example of determination and overcoming difficulties," said Kuwaiti Minister of Information Mohammad Al-Jabri.
"It is certain that this celebration evokes the values of giving and national unity," he added.
This annual event, organized by Kuwait Sea Sports Club, is considered a milestone for reviving the Kuwaiti sea heritage and culture on the national, regional and international levels.
The club organized the first traditional pearl diving trip in 1986, starting with five vessels provided by the Ministry of Information.
In the past, Kuwaitis took up pearl diving, a traditional hard and rigorous occupation and business, to make a good living.
They sailed across unknown waters in the Gulf and other nearby regions, hunting for pearl despite the risks and dangers.
