Every May the Barbican is overrun, in the best possible way. On the weekend of 9 and 10 May, Plymouth Pirates Weekend transforms the historic waterfront into a swashbuckling world of costumes, music and free family fun, and for berth holders at Sutton Harbour it all happens right on the doorstep.
A whole waterfront in fancy dress
Pirates Weekend spreads across the Barbican, Sutton Harbour, West Hoe and Royal William Yard, with two days of free family activities, entertainment and plenty of eyepatches. The atmosphere is wonderful, the crowds are cheerful, and being berthed in the middle of it means you can dip in and out of the fun as you please and retreat to your own deck when you need a breather.
The Pirate Raft Race
The highlight for many is the Pirate Raft Race on the Sunday, when teams battle it out on a circuit of the harbour in their homemade, pirate-themed rafts, all in aid of the RNLI. It is as chaotic as it sounds, and from a berth at Sutton Harbour you have some of the finest seats in the house for the spectacle.
The best base for the weekend
There is nowhere better to enjoy it all than from the water itself. Berth holders are steps from the action, and any visiting sailors thinking of timing a stop with the weekend will find themselves in the very heart of the festivities. It is Plymouth at its most joyful, and the marina is right in the thick of it.
Cruising the coast and fancy joining the fun? Visiting berths can be arranged with the team on 01752 204702 or marina@sutton-harbour.co.uk, or call ahead on VHF Channel 12. Just remember to pack the tricorn hat.
