The first Lowestoft Maritime Festival will take centre stage, as a special one-day event hits town later this year.

The inaugural Lowestoft Maritime Festival will be staged in 2026. Image: Lowestoft Maritime Festival (Image: Lowestoft Maritime Festival)

The historic South Pier and South Quay in Lowestoft will become a vibrant hub of nautical nostalgia as community spirit and family fun runs from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, August 29.

While the festival promises a spectacular day out for all ages, it will also raise funds to help secure the future of three of Lowestoft’s most treasured historical maritime assets - the vessels Lydia Eva, Mincarlo and Excelsior - as well as the Lowestoft RNLI Lifeboat charity.

Funds will be raised for Lydia Eva & Mincarlo Charitable Trust, the Excelsior Trust, and the Lowestoft RNLI Lifeboat Charity. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Festival organiser John Kitching, from the Lowestoft-based family-run boating firm, Jet Adventures, said: "The Lydia Eva, Mincarlo and Excelsior are more than just boats; they are the keel of Lowestoft's identity.

"They represent the skill, courage and spirit of our maritime community.

"This festival is a chance for people to come together, celebrate that legacy and ensure that these beautiful vessels remain a part of the Lowestoft landscape for our children and grandchildren to enjoy."

The inaugural Lowestoft Maritime Festival will be staged in 2026. A previous maritime event on South Pier. Image: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Festival-goers will be able to step onboard and experience living history as it offers a rare, close up opportunity to explore these historic vessels and hear the stories of their seafaring past directly from passionate volunteers, who work tirelessly to restore them.

As well as the historic boats, the South Pier, East Point Pavilion and Fisherman’s Wharf will be buzzing with a variety of live entertainment and attractions.

Sea shanties and maritime music will be performed on stage outside the Fisherman’s Wharf and in East Point Pavilion.

Boat trips out to sea will be available on the nine-metre jet boat Shearwater, while fun games and interactive displays will also feature.

There will also be the chance to meet RNLI mascot Stormy Stan and learn about Lowestoft Lifeboat, alongside a variety of nautical themed stalls on the quay on South Pier and at East Point Pavilion.

Visitors will also be able to indulge in delicious food and drink from local vendors, as every penny raised goes directly to the preservation and maintenance of the vessels through the trust.

Mr Kitching added: "We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Lowestoft Town Council for their generous support.

"We are also eager to collaborate with other local businesses, organisations, and individuals who wish to join us in making this the best event yet."

For more information on how to donate or get involved, please visit its Facebook page – Lowestoft Maritime Festival.

© Eastern Daily Press