On the Crest of a Wave

The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is back, bringing a new collection of captivating ocean-themed films to venues around the UK this autumn.

A powerful and visually stunning line-up of short thrilling ocean adventure films will celebrate the ocean from every angle: above the surface, beneath the waves, and deep into the stories that connect us all to the sea.

“As we head into our 13th year, the Ocean Film Festival World Tour remains a celebration of the ocean in all its beauty, power and vulnerability,” says the UK tour director Nell Teasdale.

“Each film in the 2026 programme will offer something special, whether it’s extraordinary adventure, breathtaking marine life or people dedicating their lives to protecting the sea.”

One of the standout films in the 2026 collection is The Raftsmen (pictured above), an epic story of courage and endurance.

In 1973 unlikely adventurers from seven different countries come together to attempt a feat few would dare imagine – crossing the Pacific Ocean on three handmade wooden rafts, guided only by the sun and stars. Battling storms, starvation and the psychological toll of life at sea, their six-month journey remains the longest raft expedition ever completed.

Now, 50 years later, the original 16mm footage has been restored into 4K, allowing modern audiences to witness the sheer scale of this once-in-a-lifetime ocean odyssey.

Other highlights include Granny Grommets (pictured above), a heartwarming short film proving there is no age limit on enjoying the ocean.

In surf lingo a ‘grommet’ is a young surfing newbie, but the Granny Grommets – some of whom are in their 80s – are reclaiming the word. Ignoring concerns of their worried offspring, this joyful group take to the waves every week.

Tides of Life focuses on charismatic entrepreneur Richard Tesore, who driven by a lifelong love of wildlife, opened Uruguay’s first rescue and rehabilitation centre for marine mammals. Caring for injured penguins, sea lions, otters and more, this short film explores Richard’s unwavering mission to protect the fragile marine life along the shores of this tiny South American country and beyond.

For dates and tickets, visit www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk, and for accessibility information visit individual venue websites.