News stories and events happening at Bristol Harbour and the surrounding area.
A River of Light: Illuminated Boat Parade, Saturday 13 December at 6pm
A parade of vessels in Bristol Harbour, festooned with festive lights will start at Cumberland Basin around 6pm and pass by Prince Street Bridge at approximately 6.30pm.
This is a volunteer led event organised by the Cabot Cruising Club.
More information about the Illuminated Boat Parade
National Historic Ships UK awards
Filmed in Bristol, the National Historic Ships UK Awards features special content from joint hosts, SS Great Britain, M Shed, Underfall Yard and Bristol Community Ferry Boats.
National Historic Ships UK's (NHS-UK) annual awards are a celebration of maritime heritage around the UK.
They encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with historic vessels through photography, volunteering, conservation, online activities, and skills-based training.
Watch the National Historic Ships UK Annual Awards 2025 on You Tube
We're in a book!
If you're curious about the history of UK harbours, you'll find Bristol Harbour featured in a newly published book: Harbours and their masters by Mark Ashley Miller.
The Bristol Harbour team were pleased to contribute to the book, sharing insights into the workings and rich history of Bristol Harbour.
Bristol Harbour helps boaters after Kelston lock closure
After Kelston Lock in Saltford closed unexpectedly in September, the team at Bristol Harbour quickly stepped in to help. They've made space for extra boats needing somewhere safe to stay over the winter.
Harbour staff have worked hard to manage the extra demand for winter mooring and keep everything running smoothly and safely. Bristol Harbour authority is committed to supporting boaters when faced with unexpected disruption.
Capricorn Quay
Floating Ecosystems provide a green sanctuary in Bristol Harbour
New mooring at Capricorn Quay
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.
Keep an eye on this page for updates on the opening date.
Birdman competition
The first ‘Birdman' competition to take place in Bristol was a success with thousands lining the harbourfront.
The spectacle on 15 June saw people in homemade contraptions try to 'fly' as far as possible from a raised platform into the water.
The event was great fun with some incredibly clever themed costumes and has raised more than £10,000 for the youth charity Grassroots Communities. Bristol Harbour Team also took part in the competition.
Unfortunately there was very little ‘flying' from the team but a lot of ‘falling' and of course plenty of laughter!
Events
Floating sauna pop-up at Bristol Amphitheatre
Friday 21 November to Sunday 14 December 2025.
Thursday to Sunday, midday to 9pm.
Find out more and book your place.
Underfall Market
Local arts, crafts and food traders and Victorian-era workshops. Check the website for dates in 2025.
Clean up Bristol Harbour
Monthly litterpicks with Clean Up Bristol Harbour. Check the website for dates in 2025.
Open water early morning swimming sessions
Every Sunday morning, sauna sessions available too.