The countdown is on for the much-anticipated return of the Port of Dover Regatta, set to make waves this July with a vibrant weekend of seaside festivities. Taking place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July, from 10am to 6pm each day, this dynamic two-day celebration promises an exciting blend of water-based thrills, live entertainment, local talent, and community spirit.

This year’s Regatta features its biggest line-up of water activities to date, with the Port of Dover proudly welcoming Royal Navy ships, offering visitors the rare opportunity to step aboard and explore these iconic vessels up close.

Spectators can also enjoy hovercraft demonstrations, RNLI rescue displays, and competitive sailing races. Making a popular return are the adrenaline-fuelled Dragon Boat Races, a firm crowd favourite. Whether you’re a returning team or a first timer, this is a unique and unforgettable opportunity to get involved.

Team entries are now open – sign up here!

*All able-bodied participants must be comfortable in deep water and capable of swimming 50 metres with the aid of an EU-approved personal flotation device (buoyancy aid, which will be provided).

The Marina Curve will come alive with a diverse range of live performances from talented local artists, while food lovers can indulge in an array of street food, offering both coastal classics and global flavours.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the White Cliffs and historic Dover Castle, and surrounded by the lively Marina, Marina Curve, and Clocktower Square, Dover’s waterfront continues to establish itself as a top destination. This year’s Regatta will also coincide with a Seabourn cruise ship port of call, expected to bring even more visitors to the region, strengthening connections and showcasing Dover to new audiences.

This year, all funds raised from the event will be donated to The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust and Our Finest Dour Project.

Diederik Smet, Placemaking, Events, and Partnerships Manager at the Port of Dover, shared:

“The enthusiasm around this year’s Regatta has been truly inspiring, and we are thrilled to reveal even more of what’s to come. The Regatta is about bringing people together – connecting our community, charities, and local partners and businesses in a shared celebration of Dover. It’s a weekend that showcases the best of our town and its place as a vibrant destination by the sea.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• The Port of Dover is closing the gap every day between the UK and the world by connecting trade, travel, visitors and communities locally-globally, collaborating with local and international partners to create a more seamless, sustainable and tech-enabled port.
• As the UK’s busiest international ferry port and a vital gateway for the movement of people and trade, Dover handles £144 billion of trade per year, 33% of UK trade in goods with the EU and welcomes over 11 million passengers.
• Dover is also an award-winning cruise port, delivering world class travel and visitor experiences to the most prestigious cruise lines. With a growing and diversifying cargo business operating from state-of-the-art facilities, a brand-new marina which is a major feature of the exciting waterfront development, and opportunities for further expansion in the future, Dover’s proud history dating back 400 years has a new modern twist.