Total raised at Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival

Celebrating its 22nd year, early indications suggest this has been the busiest festival to date, with large crowds gathering across the town’s main stages and pub venues to enjoy performances from shanty groups who travelled from across the UK and overseas.

(Image: Falmouth Hotel)

More than 90 performing groups took part, alongside a packed programme of market stalls, family‑friendly activities and the ever‑popular Gala Concert.

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Alongside the music, the festival’s fundraising efforts proved a huge success, with £31,268.84 raised for the RNLI so far, with counting still underway by the Falmouth Lifeboat team.

Richard Gates, Chair of the Sea Shanty Festival Committee, said: “This has been one of our biggest and best Sea Shanty Festivals yet.

Celebrating its 22nd year, early indications suggest this has been the busiest festival to date, with large crowds gathering across the town’s main stages and pub venues to enjoy performances from shanty groups who travelled from across the UK and overseas. (Image: Liz Richardson)

“To see the streets so full, and to know that has translated into such an incredible amount raised for the RNLI is brilliant.

“Thank you to every performer, volunteer, trader, sponsor and visitor who made it happen, and of course to the people of Falmouth for opening up the town and making everyone feel so welcome.”

This year also saw the launch of a new festival app, developed by 3 Deep Media with support from Falmouth BID, giving visitors access to the full performance schedule, venue maps and festival information at their fingertips.

A new Shanty Shuttle Park & Ride service from Penryn University Campus also helped ease travel into town across the weekend.

More than 90 performing groups took part, alongside a packed programme of market stalls, family friendly activities and the ever popular Gala Concert (Image: Liz Richardson)

The festival ran alongside Falmouth Classics, with sailing and shanties combining to create a memorable weekend both on the water and in the streets.

Organisers have thanked this year’s sponsors, including Seasalt Cornwall, Cornwall Hotel Collection, Warrens Bakery and Sharp’s Brewery, along with all the local businesses, market traders and volunteers who supported the event.

(Image: Nick Perry)

Planning is already underway for the 2027 festival, which will take place from Friday, June 18 to Sunday, June 20.