About this Event
Friday, 11 December 2026 | From 2:30pm | Holyhead, Anglesey
Join the Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation and Stena Line for a special afternoon of maritime celebration, community spirit and festive cheer as we officially launch the Spirit of Shackleton Winter Programme in Holyhead.
Inspired by the extraordinary legacy of Sir Ernest Shackleton, the Spirit of Shackleton is a 70-foot ocean-going sailing vessel dedicated to inspiring the next generation through adventure, exploration, ocean science and leadership.
Through our partnership with Stena Line, we're delighted to bring new opportunities to Holyhead and Anglesey, connecting young people with the ocean, building confidence and resilience, and opening doors to exciting maritime experiences.
An afternoon of celebration
The festivities begin at 2:30pm at the pontoon in Holyhead Marina Landing Stage, where guests will gather for the official launch of the Spirit of Shackleton, with representatives from Stena Line, the Foundation and the local community.
Following the ceremony, we'll move to the Ucheldre Centre at 4:00pm for a festive community reception featuring refreshments, seasonal entertainment and an opportunity to meet the team behind the programme.
A highlight of the afternoon will be the announcement of four youth sailing bursary winners, who will have the opportunity to experience life at sea aboard the Spirit of Shackleton. Two bursaries are dedicated to Bangor University students, with a further two for young people from Holyhead and the wider Anglesey community.
These opportunities, supported by Stena Line, aim to inspire the next generation of explorers, ocean advocates and maritime leaders.
Event Programme:
2:30pm – Guests arrive at the Holyhead Marina Landing Stage, Holyhead Harbour
3:00pm – Official Spirit of Shackleton launch
3:40pm – Transfer to the Ucheldre Centre
4:00pm – Festive community reception, refreshments and entertainment
4:30pm – Welcome and presentations from our partners
5:00pm – Announcement of the four youth sailing bursary winners
5:15pm – Festive music and community networking
5:45pm – Event concludes
Everyone is welcome!
We warmly invite the Holyhead and Anglesey community, local maritime organisations, schools, families, businesses and anyone with an interest in adventure, sailing and ocean exploration to join us.
Come along, meet the crew, celebrate our partnership with Stena Line and discover how you can become part of the Spirit of Shackleton journey.
For more email: [email protected]
We look forward to celebrating with you in Holyhead this Christmas!
Event venue & nearby stays
Holyhead, United Kingdom
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