SS Great Britain is set to captivate visitors this festive season with Beneath the Waves, a breathtaking light and sound installation that transforms the ship's historic dry dock into an immersive underwater dreamscape. Created by internationally acclaimed artists Squidsoup, the installation marks a bold new direction for the attraction's Christmas programming and is the first major installation at the site since Iron Island in 2021.
Running from 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, Beneath the Waves features hundreds of suspended orbs that trace the SS Great Britain's epic voyage from icy northern waters to sun-drenched distant shores. As visitors wander beneath the hull of Brunel's iconic vessel, waves of colour and sound wash over them, with the voices of crew and passengers drifting through the space and distant sounds of far-off lands emerging as the journey unfolds.
This installation represents a departure from the site’s traditional Victorian Christmas programming. This year, the SS Great Britain Trust is embracing contemporary art and cutting-edge technology to celebrate the ship's spirit of innovation and adventure.
The light installation is free with general admission, which includes unlimited returns for a full year. A 10% discount is available when tickets are booked online in advance. Visit ssgreatbritain.org to book tickets and plan your visit.
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Andrew Edwards, Chief Executive of SS Great Britain Trust, said: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Squidsoup on Beneath the Waves. It’s a truly spectacular installation and an exciting new chapter in SS Great Britain’s story. This bold programming reflects our commitment to engaging audiences in fresh, innovative ways while honouring our maritime heritage.”
Beneath the Waves is the highlight of SS Great Britain's seasonal programme, A Festive Voyage, which also includes:
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Storytime with Old Father Christmas aboard the ship, featuring tales of Victorian yuletide customs, on various dates in December.
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Festive Music in the Dockyard with performances by local ensembles including Filton Concert Brass, SHE Choir Bristol, Bristol A Capella, and Port of Bristol Shanty Crew on various dates in December.
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Festive Lunch on Board in the opulent First-Class Dining Saloon on 7 and 14 December.
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Masquerade Ball, a glamorous evening with a three-course dinner, string quartet, and roaming magician on 6 December.
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Go Aloft: Rig Climb Experience, with day passes available as gift vouchers – the perfect Christmas gift. Go Aloft returns in March 2026.
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