What is the Festival Weekend about?

The prime aim is to give the young of all ages – particularly those with the least opportunities to access the river – an opportunity to get afloat, whether by visiting an historic ship, trying their hand at a waterborne activity, or just taking a gentle cruise.

A second aim is to attract more visitors to follow the Town Trail and to take advantage of the retail and hospitality businesses along the way – particularly those making a special offer.

What is on offer over 28–29 September?

Dip into the town trail section of the brochure and you can find plenty of ideas.

A selection of all the activities is given below:

Take in the Lymington Afloat exhibition at St Barbe Museum at ½ price.

Have a go at rowing or kayaking in the upper reaches.

Visit the Royal Navy, Coastguards and the RNLI by the Town Quay.

Enjoy the demonstrations, food and free boat trips at the two clubs.

Visit a WWII Motor Gun Boat and High Speed Launch on the HM Pontoon.

Watch the fun at the Sea Water Baths or at the Sea Angling Club.

Link to Trail Map shows you where to go or ask a marshal in a pink vest.

What times are the activities?

Most special activities and visits will start at 10 am and wind down around 4 pm. Retail and hospitality venues will be open longer. Coral Star and Puffin Billi will work their regular timetable. Check with the organisers for further information.

What about bad weather?

Each event organiser will take account of the weather and adjust plans as necessary. Your safety is paramount. Please follow instructions from marshals, boat operators and safety coordinators. You must be honest in answering questions about your experience afloat.

What do I have to do in advance?

Read the individual entries and see whether you should book in advance e.g. kayaks, LYC sailing trips or powerboat trips. Wear suitable clothing and footwear if you wish to take a boating trip or a guided walk on the Lymington Nature Reserve. Lifejackets, where required, will be supplied by the activity organiser. The Sea Water Baths will publish their special weekend programme on their website.

What about last minute changes?

We will alert you to the weather forecast and any last minute changes to the programme on the Lymington Afloat website. The marshals will be briefed to answer your questions and to help ensure that you and your family have a wonderful time.