Shipshape and Bristol Fashion

We're diving into the heart of the summer festival scene, folks! This episode is all about the magic of community and music, as we recount our recent adventures at various shanty festivals, including the unforgettable Woodfest, where we helped raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. We’ve got tales about belting out shanties, wrangling crowds, and the camaraderie that comes with performing together. It’s not just about the tunes; it's about making memories, supporting causes close to our hearts, and sharing some good ol' banter along the way! So grab your grog, settle in, and let’s ride the waves of joy and laughter as we recount our shanty escapades!
Takeaways:
This episode dives deep into the vibrant world of sea shanties, showcasing how these spirited songs bring people together in an unforgettable way.
We learned about the heartwarming connection between the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and the Teenage Cancer Trust, highlighting the importance of charity in their performances.
The crew reminisced about their summer gigs, including the Bristol Harbour Festival, which was packed with laughter, camaraderie, and a ton of singing.
Listeners got a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes of organizing events like Woodfest and how much effort goes into making them successful.
Ollie Shanty Boy shared his excitement about performing in Holland, emphasizing the joy of traveling and singing with friends.
The episode wrapped up with a promise of more fun adventures to come, reminding everyone to keep their spirits high and enjoy the music.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Teenage Cancer Trust
Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
Woodfest
Harbour Festival
Falmouth International Shanty Festival
RNLI
DZ Boys
Kilkenny Bay
Tawny Shanty Men
Lower Deckers
Cleveland
Cassenion

Mentioned in this episode:
Nova Scotia

Ahoy, friends! We’re diving into the heart of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! This episode is packed tighter than a sailor's sea chest with highlights, interviews, and some seriously catchy tunes from our fellow shanty-loving crews. We're soaking up the vibes and chatting with everyone from seasoned shanty singers to first-time festival-goers, all while basking in the sunny Cornish weather that’s blessed us this year. We’ve got stories of camaraderie, laughter, and maybe a couple of slightly off-key notes, but hey, that’s what makes it all the more fun! So, grab a mug of your favorite grog, kick back, and let’s set sail on this musical journey together!
Takeaways:
This episode celebrates the vibrant atmosphere of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, showcasing the joy of community singing.
We explore how sea shanties have evolved and how they bring people together across cultures and generations.
Listeners get an inside look at various shanty crews, highlighting their unique stories and musical styles, which adds to the festival's charm.
The crew discusses the importance of embracing diversity in shanty music, making it accessible and relevant for today's audiences.
The episode highlights the festival's impact on local businesses and the community, emphasizing the economic benefits of such cultural events.
We share some hilarious moments from the festival, reminding everyone that laughter and fun are just as important as the music.

Links referenced in this episode:
scuttlebuttshantycrew.com
falmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.com
portisbshantyfestival.com
ilfracombeshantyfestival.com
armstrongspadens.com
orkneyseashantysociety.com

Links referenced in this episode:
falmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.com
scuttlebuttshantycrew.com
ilfracombeshantyfestival.com
orkneyseashantysociety.com
armstrongspader.nl

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
Portal Bristol Shanty
Rusty Tubbs
Molly Loggers
Catch of the Day
Scuttlebutt
Oggy Men
The Longest Johns
Barrel Seagals
Seaweed in the Fruit Locker
Orkney Sea Shanty Society
Severn Whalers
Hay Shanty Men
Barnacle Boys
85ers

Mentioned in this episode:
Nova Scotia

We're diving into the good vibes of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2026, and let me tell you, it's a blast! From the get-go, we’re all about celebrating the spirit of this wild gathering, where over 500 folks packed in to sip on some brews and belt out shanties like nobody's business. We’ve got our crew—Oggy, Ollie, and the legendary Tom Lewis—sharing their highlights, reflections, and a few cheeky anecdotes from the festival floor. It’s all about the music, the laughter, and those moments where the crowd sings so loud you can’t hear yourself think! So grab a pint, kick back, and join us as we relive the fun, the tunes, and all the shenanigans from this epic weekend!
Takeaways:
In this episode, we dive into the highlights of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere and incredible talent present at the event.
Our crew reflects on the fantastic turnout of over 500 attendees on the first day, highlighting the joy and camaraderie shared among festival-goers and performers.
We discuss the importance of the variety of singing styles at the festival, which provides an educational experience for both performers and audience members alike.
Tom shares his heartfelt appreciation for the organization and hospitality of the event, emphasizing how well everything was run for a young festival.
Listen in as we recount some hilarious moments, including a pint-fueled evening that left us all in high spirits, proving once again that laughter is the best medicine!
We also take a moment to appreciate our fellow performers and the unique fusion of music styles that make this shanty festival a truly special gathering for everyone involved.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Rusty Tubs
Port of Bristol Shanty crew
Real Ale and Shanty Festival
Sir Thomas Rich's Grammar School for Boys
Severn Area Rescue Authority
Teenage Cancer Trust
Falmouth International Shanty Festival
Scrimshank Shanty
Backbeach Boys
Wurzels
Madison's
Thornbury Sailing Club
Snuffy Jacks
Henry Davis
Brynn

Mentioned in this episode:
Nova Scotia
Chapters

Today, we’re diving into the vibrant world of maritime music with none other than Dean Calin, the man behind the Maritime Music Directory International! This convo is all about how this directory is not just a treasure trove for shanty lovers, but also a lifeline for artists looking to connect with fans and each other. We’ll be sharing some hilarious tales from our gigs, and trust me, you don’t want to miss Dean’s wild stories about how he got into this genre—spoiler alert: it involves a Catholic school and some unexpected sea shanties! Plus, we’ll chat about the upcoming shanty festivals and how you can get involved in the community. So, grab your headphones and get ready to sail through some fun tunes and laughs with us—this episode is sure to blow the cobwebs off your sea legs!
Takeaways:
In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of maritime music and the unique culture surrounding shanty crews, exploring how these musical traditions keep the spirit of the sea alive.
We chat with Dean Callan, who shares his journey from a private school in Chicago to becoming a key player in the maritime music scene, highlighting the importance of community in this genre.
The Maritime Music Directory International aims to connect artists and fans, showcasing the rich history and variety of maritime music with over a thousand groups and 400 venues listed. https://seashanties4all.com/
Listeners will discover how the pandemic spurred the growth of maritime music online, making it easier for new fans to engage with shanty culture and fostering a sense of global community.
We discuss upcoming events and festivals, including the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, which brings together shanty crews and fans for a weekend of music, fun, and community spirit.
Finally, we emphasize the importance of supporting maritime music, whether through attending events, donating to the Maritime Music Directory, or simply sharing the joy of shanty singing with friends.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Maritime Music Directory International
Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
Thornbury Action Art
Teenage Cancer Trust
Falmouth International Shanty Festival
Bristol Harbour Festival
Newport Shanty Festival
Nobby
Tom Lewis
Alela Diane
Brandy
Longest Johns

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/
Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch
Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter
Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/
Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew
Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean
Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©
Matt Jeanes Professional Artist
Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved
Mentioned in this episode:
Nova Scotia
Chapters

Yo, folks! We're diving into the deep end of sea shanties and good vibes in this episode, and let me tell ya, the upcoming Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival happening in Bristol on May 9th and 10th, 2026. We're talking about an epic gathering at Freemasons Hall, where the legendary Porter Bristol Shanty Crew will be belting out tunes alongside special guest Tom Lewis. And don't even get me started on the atmosphere—it's gonna be a blast with powerful harmonies, maritime history, and a selection of real ales and ciders that’ll have you singing all night long!
We also hear from people who attended the Bristol Trelawny shout , with Olly the Shanty Boy
We’ve also got some heartwarming stories, like our chat with Katherine Collins, who shares her journey of overcoming challenges to perform on stage as a mermaid.
Takeaways:
The Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival is coming back to Bristol in May 2026, and it's going to be a blast with tons of shanty singers and good vibes.
Singing sea shanties isn't just about music; it's a way to connect with maritime history and celebrate community spirit, which is super cool.
Catherine Collins, a member of the shanty crew, shares her inspiring journey overcoming health challenges to perform and even become a mermaid on stage.
The shanty scene is all about inclusivity and accessibility, showing that anyone can join in the fun, no matter their background or abilities.
Live music, community bonding, and drinking real ales are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable weekend at the shanty festival!
Sea shanties are making a serious comeback, riding the wave of popularity thanks to viral hits like 'Wellerman' and bringing people together in harmony.

Links referenced in this episode:
www.aleandshanty.co.uk

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
Tom Lewis
cask
Thunderbox
Bristol Girls
Severn Whalers
Boscastle Boys
Vancouver Mermaid
Royal British Legion

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/
Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch
Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter
Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/
Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew
Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean
Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©
Matt Jeanes Professional Artist
Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved