Lowestoft Maritime Festival 2026

Photos credit of Mick Howes.

Plan a visit to the coast this summer as the Lowestoft Maritime Festival returns on Saturday 29 August 2026, from 10am to 4pm on South Pier.

Organised by Jet Adventures, with support from Lowestoft Town Council, East Suffolk One Radio, East Point Pavilion and the Barge Number 9 Project, this much-loved event brings together visitors and residents for a lively celebration of Lowestoft’s maritime heritage.

Set against the backdrop of the working waterfront, the festival offers a brilliant day out with a strong community feel and plenty to see and do.

What to expect

From the moment you arrive, the South Pier quay comes alive with activity. Visitors can expect:

• Historic vessels and maritime displays along the waterfront
• Opportunities to step aboard traditional boats
• Family-friendly activities and entertainment
• A vibrant atmosphere celebrating Lowestoft’s fishing and seafaring past

Event organiser John Kitching of Jet Adventures said: “This festival is our way of bringing the community together for a brilliant day out, while ensuring the Lydia Eva, Mincarlo, Excelsior, and the RNLI crew can continue their vital work for generations to come.”

Don’t miss Mincarlo

A highlight of the festival, and a standout attraction in Lowestoft year-round, is Mincarlo, the last surviving sidewinder fishing trawler built in the town.

Moored on Heritage Quay, South Pier, Mincarlo offers a unique, hands-on glimpse into the town’s fishing industry and the lives of those who worked at sea.

Visit throughout the season

• Until 23 May: Mon–Thu & Sat, 10am–2pm
• From 23 May to end of October: Daily, 10am–4pm

See her come to life

• Main engine running:
  1st & 3rd Wednesdays each month, 11am–12pm (subject to conditions)

With knowledgeable volunteers on board, you can explore the vessel, hear real stories from Lowestoft’s fishing past, and experience how life on board would have felt.

• Free entry (donations welcome)
• Authentic interiors and working spaces
• A rare vessel built and powered in Lowestoft

Supporting local maritime heritage

As well as offering a great day out, the festival plays an important role in supporting local maritime causes. Proceeds will be shared equally between:

• Lydia Eva
• Mincarlo
• RNLI Lowestoft Fundraising Team
• Excelsior

Cllr Nasima Begum, Mayor of Lowestoft, said: “Lowestoft’s maritime history is rich and part of the town’s identity, so it’s wonderful to see this event celebrating our heritage.”

Plan your visit

The Maritime Festival is a perfect reason to explore Lowestoft. Pair your visit with a walk along the beach, time on the promenade, or a stop at one of the town’s cafes and attractions.

Saturday 29 August 2026 | 10am–4pm | South Pier, Lowestoft

👉 Support the festival:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/lowestoft-maritime-festival

Come for the festival, and discover even more of Lowestoft’s unique maritime story.