This free, family-friendly event incorporates all things marine, from a colorful contingent of pirates to competitive work boat crews running “all ahead full” in their effort to take top honors in their respective divisions.
The landscape will be filled with characters and adornments, from eye patches to tri-cornered hats, strapless silk dresses to sidearms and swords. Add food vendors, live music, car show and beer garden and you’ve got an event menu that’s sure to whet the appetite of all guests.
The action opens Saturday, August 23, 11 a.m. at the main Port dock at the north end of Commercial Avenue. Pass by the massive anchor at street’s end and you will enter an entertainment zone featuring not only spectator sports, but interactive options as well.
Enter your taste buds in the chowder contest, or among miscellaneous other food vendors. Dress like a pirate (pirates of all ages welcome!) prepared to compete, or simply play the role of observer in the popular “Aaaar-off” and “Swagger and Stagger” contests.
Take advantage of an ample supply of water balloons to engage in battle with work boat crews “attacking” with their own barrage of balloons from waterside. Perch on the bleachers for the boat parade and subsequent races, or walk the docks for a changing perspective.
Boisterous pirates are actually gentle as kittens, most eager to pause for photo ops between pirate competitions. Definitely bring the camera, as other event features include a car show filled with classic beauties. The Land’s End Bar/Beer Garden will welcome those of legal age who choose to wet their whistles.
As noted, the dockside schedule begins at 11 a.m. A noon memorial service will be conducted a few blocks south at Seafarers’ Memorial Park, then it’s back to the Port dock for a 1 p.m. boat parade followed by a series of exciting races.