The Cabot Cruising Club invites the city to wrap up warm, gather on the harbourside, and witness a spectacle that promises to be a little bit magical and a whole lot of fun: the Illuminated Boat Parade.
On Saturday, 13th December, the dark winter waters will be transformed into a shimmering stage as a procession of vessels, from sturdy powered boats to brave little rowboats, glide through the city, festooned with twinkling lights and festive cheer.
Ben Ewing, Commodore of the Cabot Cruising Club, says:
"This is a celebration created entirely by volunteers to bring a little light to the city. We are mixing the big engines with the paddle power to create a collaboratively safe, beautifully illuminated procession. We invite everyone to come down safely to the water’s edge and watch us 'be the light' together."
The Spectacle: What to Watch For
The parade is a "single pass" event, meaning a continuous, glittering snake of boats will wind its way from the west end of the harbour into the heart of the city.
Spectators can expect to see powered vessels leading the charge, followed by a silent, glowing flotilla of manual craft (canoes, paddleboards, and rowboats) all braving the cold to put on a show.
A Warm Start at Underfall Yard
To kick off the festivities, the Underfall Cafe will be opening specially from 17:30 to 18:30.
Spectators are invited to arrive early and grab a seasonal Baileys hot chocolate or a luxury gingerbread hot chocolate to warm their hands. It is the perfect vantage point to watch the excitement build as the fleet prepares to launch from the Cumberland Basin.
Order of Events (Saturday, 13th December)
To make sure you don’t miss a moment of the magic, here is the timeline for the evening:
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17:30 | The Curtain Raiser
The historic Prince Street Bridge will swing open. This is the moment the "stage" is set, allowing the waiting vessels to move into position for the grand entrance. -
18:00 | The Parade Begins
Starting from the Cumberland Basin, the procession of powered vessels will begin their journey. -
18:15 approx. | The Silent Flotilla
Following the powered boats, the manual craft will launch from Underfall Yard, joining the rear of the procession. -
18:20 - 18:45 | The Main Event
The full parade will pass through Prince Street Bridge, offering the best viewing opportunities for spectators on the bridge and adjacent quaysides. -
19:00 | The Finale
The vessels will arrive in Bathurst Basin (near the John Sebastian Light Ship). Here, they will gather to create a dazzling pool of light before mooring up for the evening.
Best Viewing Spots
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Underfall Yard: For a warm drink and to see the very start of the parade.
Prince Street Bridge: For the closest view of the boats passing through. -
Narrow Quay & Pero’s Bridge: For a wider, panoramic view of the approaching lights.
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Bathurst Basin: To watch the colourful finale as the boats congregate.
Come along, bring a flask of something hot, and enjoy one of Bristol’s most unique festive traditions.
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