Ocean Institute’s 40th Annual Maritime Festival: A Celebration of History, Community, and Ocean Education

DANA POINT— As Ocean Institute gears up for its 40th annual Maritime Festival from Sept. 13-15, the organization is calling on the community to join in a celebration of Dana Point’s rich maritime heritage while also empowering future ocean stewards. This year’s festival is set to be more than just a weekend of fun; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of children by giving them the chance to explore the wonders of the ocean through the Institute’s Adopt-A-Class program.

 

For four decades, the Maritime Festival has been a cornerstone of history and tradition in Dana Point, attracting thousands of visitors to the harbor to admire the majestic tall ships, participate in hands-on maritime activities and celebrate the ocean. What started as a modest gathering has evolved into a cherished Southern California event, deeply intertwined with the community and its maritime heritage.

 

This year, the festival promises to be more vibrant than ever, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The festivities will begin with the lively Sails N’ Ales Kickoff, where craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy local brews while taking in live music and breathtaking harbor views. The excitement continues throughout the weekend with Mermaid Swim Shows, featuring enchanting mermaids who will mesmerize audiences with underwater performances, bringing fairy tales to life. Young explorers can dive into the School for Scallywags, an interactive adventure where they’ll learn the skills of swashbuckling, treasure hunting and pirate etiquette.

 

For those seeking high-seas excitement, Cannon Battles will feature thrilling re-enactments of naval skirmishes, with tall ships like The Spirit of Dana Point, Bill of Rights, The Curlew and The Mayflower exchanging cannon fire in dramatic encounters. For a more tranquil experience, the Mermaid Breakfast offers a magical start to the day, where guests can enjoy a charming meal alongside enchanting mermaids. Additionally, the whimsical Afternoon Mermaid Tea invites guests to sip on specialty teas and indulge in delightful treats while bringing an oceanic fantasy to life.

 

Adding to the excitement, the festival will offer free Pirate Adventure Shows, a series of thrilling performances that can be enjoyed from the shore. These shows will bring pirate legends to life with sword fights, daring escapades and plenty of swashbuckling fun, all set against the scenic backdrop of Dana Point Harbor.

 

The fun continues beyond the main events. Visitors can relax in the Beer Garden, where live music from local bands will enhance the seaside atmosphere. Families will have plenty to enjoy at Sailor’s Camp and Lil’ Lads Landing, areas designed specifically for younger attendees. Sailor’s Camp provides hands-on activities that immerse children in the sailor’s life, while Lil’ Lads Landing features carnival games, crafts and educational booths that combine fun with learning.

 

Stroll through Peddler’s Village, where artisan vendors will display unique merchandise and food trucks will offer a variety of tasty options to satisfy every appetite.

 

For a more laid-back experience, head to the Salty Seadogs Saloon, a waterfront lounge and bar where you can savor specialty cocktails, admire the tall ships, enjoy the ocean breeze and watch pirate shows unfold.

 

The highlight of the weekend is the third annual Pirate and Mermaid Ball, an evening under the stars where guests are encouraged to dress in their finest pirate or mermaid attire. This exclusive event features gourmet dining, live music and dancing. Proceeds from the ball benefit Ocean Institute’s educational programs, helping to pass the ocean’s magic on to future generations.

 

To ensure a hassle-free festival experience, there is free parking and shuttle service to minimize traffic concerns. On Sept. 14, parking will be available at Marco Forster Middle School, and the following day, at Dana Hills High School. Shuttles will run every 25-30 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m., providing convenient transportation to and from the event.

 

For events on Sept. 13, parking will be limited at Baby Beach South Lot. No festival parking or shuttle services will be available. Organizers strongly recommend using ride-sharing options or the Dana Point Trolley for convenience and ease of access.

 

Every ticket purchased for the Maritime Festival plays a vital role in changing lives. Proceeds support the Ocean Institute’s Adopt-A-Class program, which provides thousands of children with unique opportunities to explore the ocean. As budget cuts and rising costs limit field trip access, Adopt-A-Class ensures that students from underserved communities can participate in educational programs at the Ocean Institute, often seeing the ocean for the first time.

 

Through Adopt-A-Class, students engage in hands-on learning aboard tall ships, explore marine mysteries in labs and forge a personal connection with marine environments. These experiences are more than just educational – they are transformative, sparking curiosity  and igniting a lifelong passion for the ocean.

 

“The Maritime Festival is a celebration of our past, but it’s also about investing in our future,” says Kaitlyn Davidson, growth marketing manager at Ocean Institute. “Every ticket purchased for the festival is a step toward giving a child the experience of a lifetime. It’s about more than just attending an event; it’s about making a difference.”

 

Tickets for the Maritime Festival and the Pirate and Mermaid Ball are now available on the Ocean Institute’s website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a weekend filled with adventure, history, and meaningful impact. Your participation helps inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.

 

Founded in 1977, the Ocean Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to marine science and maritime history education. Located on 2.4 acres in Dana Point Harbor, next to a Marine Protected Area, the Institute serves over 100,000 children, teachers, parents, and visitors each year through more than 60 educational programs.