Ocean Scilly Festival celebrates the seas around the Isles of Scilly with water-based activities, marine wildlife and maritime heritage across the archipelago. It is now in its second year, with sessions taking place on St Mary’s, Tresco, St Martin’s, Bryher or St Agnes rather than at one fixed venue.
The 2026 edition ran from 22 to 30 August and included coasteering, kayak safaris, sea swims, coastal saunas, gig rowing and a paddleboarding workshop with double World Champion Marie Buchanan. New that year was St Mary’s Water Carnival on 22 August, a day of raft racing, sailing regattas, angling competitions, nautical fancy dress, live entertainment and food stalls.
Visitor information
Dates: 2027 dates have not been announced. The 2026 festival ran 22 to 30 August.
Venue: Multiple locations across the Isles of Scilly. Inter-island travel is needed for some sessions.
Admission: Not stated as one site-wide price. Individual activities are booked and priced separately through the organiser.
Programme: Past editions have focused on water-based activities, marine wildlife and maritime heritage, alongside the St Mary’s Water Carnival. A new programme is expected to follow similar themes once announced.
Allow time for boat connections when combining sessions on different islands, and check the weather and local boat boards before travelling between islands.
Where to stay
See Isles of Scilly visitor information and browse places to stay on the Isles of Scilly.
