News and events in Bristol Harbour

News stories and events happening at Bristol Harbour and the surrounding area.

Water safety campaign resources for boaters

Graphic for water safety campaign for boaters. Text says 'reduce the risk boost your skills' with two people on a speedboat and other sailing boats in the background

HM Coastguard, the RNLI and the Royal Yachting Association have launched their annual water safety campaign for recreational boaters.

The 'Reduce the risk, boost your skills' campaign shares simple, practical tips to help both new and experienced boaters get ready for the boating season.

Free safety checklists are available across the UK.

Pick up a copy at the Harbour Masters Office,
Download or order a copy from the HM Coastguard's website.

The checklists cover:

pre season checks
onboard equipment
crew safety such as man overboard procedures, checking engines and kit, having a clear second in command

Introducing our new Director and Harbourmaster

A smiling man wearing glasses and a white shirt. In the background, the harbour and colourful houses

David Lockwood joined Bristol Harbour Authority in the new year from the Port of Milford Haven where he was part of the Port Management team and the Statutory Harbourmaster of Milford Dock.

During his time there he looked after a wide range of projects including:

Transfer of Pilots by Helicopter
Capital Dredging Projects
Operation of the world leading Navigation Simulator

David is originally from the West Country and both him and his wife (with their full of energy Golden-doodle) welcome the opportunity to return to a part of the world that they know well and love, after a number of years working at sea and in Marine Management around the world.

David is an active member of the UK Harbourmasters Association as well as an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute.

Moorings at Capricorn Quay

Some mooring platforms on the harbour, water in the background and some buildings

New mooring have been installed at Capricorn Quay to allow even more boaters to visit and stay in Bristol Harbour.

The pontoons are being equipped with final facilities, including a floating cabin with a composting toilet.

Moorings are undergoing installation of final utilities and will be open for summer 2026 bookings.

Events

Saturday 16 May 2026, 8am to 1pm: Surfers Against Sewage paddle out

Surfers Against Sewage annual protest paddle out from Baltic Wharf to the Arnolfini and back.

Starts at 11am. Safety boat to escort. Mariners to pass with due consideration.

Saturday 30 May 2026, 10am to 5pm: Bristol Celtic Gig Sprints

Sprint races for Celtic longboats in the Baltic Wharf area.

Mariners are requested to navigate on the north side of the channel and proceed slowly.

Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 June 2026, 10am to 5pm: District Cadet Regatta

Organised by TS Adventure Sea Cadets. Pulling boats, racing and manoeuvres in Cumberland Basin.

Mariners should proceed with caution and give due consideration to participating cadets.

Sunday 14 June 2026: The Bristol Birdman

The Bristol Birdman sees teams building flying machines powered by people, using only recycled materials. The teams then launch off a platform into the harbour, in front of thousands of cheering fans. The event is fun, creative and all for a good cause.

Mariners must navigate on the north side of the channel, which will be marked

Take part, or find out about sponsorship opportunities on the Grassroots website.

Thursday 18 June 2026, 12pm to 5pm: New Wave Lloyds Dragon Boat Race

Taking place on the south side of Baltic Wharf between the Cottage Inn and Bristol Marina. A 30 metre wide course will be marked by yellow buoys.

Mariners should proceed slowly and navigate with caution when passing through the area.

Saturday 20 June 2026, 10am to 4pm: Avon Scouts Club Day

Youth sailing activities throughout the day at Baltic Wharf.

Pass slowly and exercise caution around participating vessels.

Saturday 27 June 2026, 10am to 5pm: South West Cadet Regatta

Sea Cadets will participate in pulling boat races and maneuvers in the Cumberland Basin area. Mariners should give consideration to participating craft.

Sunday 28 June 2026, 10am to 5pm: Bristol Breakfast Rotary Club Dragon Boat Race

Dragon boat racing on the south side of Baltic Wharf between the Cottage Inn and Bristol Marina.

The race has up to 36 teams taking part in heats, semi-finals and a grand final. Each crew raises money by getting sponsorship. The organisers provide the boats, paddles, life jackets and expert instruction.

A marked course will be in place. Mariners must proceed slowly and navigate with caution.

Saturday 4 July 2026, 10am to 4pm: Avon Scouts Club Day

Youth sailing activities at Baltic Wharf.

Mariners should pass slowly and give due consideration to participating craft.

Sunday 5 July 2026, 10am to 4pm: New Wave Gympanzees Dragon Boat Race

Dragon boat racing at Baltic Wharf, within a buoyed 30 metre course.

Navigate with caution and proceed at slow speed.

Monday 6 July 2026, 10am to 5pm: All Aboard Regatta Day

Up to 120 children will compete in rowing, sailing, and katakana activities at Baltic Wharf.

Mariners should proceed slowly and be mindful of young participants.

Friday 10 to Saturday 11 July 2026, 10am to 5pm: BWSC Regatta

Sailing races will take place on both days, including a Head of Harbour race on Saturday from the Underfall Pontoon to the Arnolfini and back.

Mariners are advised to proceed slowly and show appropriate caution around all participating vessels.

Friday 17 to Sunday 19 July 2026: Bristol Harbour Festival

The Harbour Festival brings together emerging Bristol artists, established acts and international performers for three days of continuous entertainment, supported by an on the water programme.

Event vessels will be moored on temporary pontoons at Canons Marsh, St Augustine's Reach, the Amphitheatre, and Hanover Quay. Installation will begin four weeks before. Removal will be completed within four weeks after the event.

Vessels not participating may be required to relocate as directed by the Harbour Master.

Aquatic events will occur throughout the festival period. Craft should expect wash from event activities and ensure adequate fendering. Vessels may be delayed for up to 20 minutes while events are underway.

Sunday 20 September 2026: Omra model boat race

Model boat racing at Baltic Wharf.

Keep clear of the race area and pass slowly to minimise wash.

Saturday 26 September 2026: Charlton Farm Children's Hospice Charity Challenge

Small teams will paddle up and down the Baltic Wharf area.