Sea Salts and Sail is a free harbour festival at Mousehole celebrating Cornwall’s maritime and fishing heritage. The centrepiece is a fleet of over 40 traditional boats with tanned sails leaving the harbour and parading through the channel between St Clement’s Island and the shore - a re-enactment of the lugger fleets that once fished these waters.
The festival runs over three days with sculling races, seafood stalls, live music, and family activities spread along the harbour. Mousehole is one of the most photogenic fishing villages in Cornwall, and the festival brings the harbour to life in a way that few events manage.
The event is entirely volunteer-run and free to attend, funded by donations and fundraising. Over 200 volunteers make it happen each year.
Visitor Information
Dates: 3-5 July 2026.
Cost: Free. Donations welcome.
Getting there: Mousehole is 3 miles south of Penzance on the B3315. Parking in the village is very limited - use the bus from Penzance or walk the coast path (about 45 minutes). Arrive early if driving.
Family friendly: Yes. Harbour activities, boat watching, and food stalls all suitable for children.
Where to Stay
Mousehole is tiny and books up fast for festival weekend. Mariners Cottage is a dog-friendly cottage sleeping four in the village. Penzance is 3 miles away with more options - The Blue House sleeps six, dog-friendly. Browse places to stay in Penzance.
