Port of Dover Regatta 2024 raises £10K for charities

Despite a battle with the elements, approximately 9,000 people flocked to the waterfront – from Kent where the port is located and further afield – to attend the annual festivity, now in its 12th year. 

For the first time, the action was spread across the new Marina Curve, Clocktower Square, Outer Marina and seafront.

Partnership with Fred. Olsen

This year’s regatta saw the biggest Dragon Boat Race yet, sponsored by Fred. Olsen. 

‘We were delighted to be the headline sponsor of this year’s Dover Regatta and Dragon Boat Race and see thousands of people enjoying the buzz of the event, all while raising money for two important local causes,’ said Samantha Stimpson, the cruise line's CEO.

‘We are proud to support and give back to the communities that we sail from across the UK, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Port of Dover for next year’s season of cruising.’ 

Clean Regatta certification

The regatta included different activities, stalls and demos that showcase the best of the local culture. Since 2022, it has been awarded Platinum level Clean Regatta certification for sustainability – a world leading environmental accreditation for water-based events.

Diederik Smet, placemaking, events and partnerships manager at the Port of Dover, said, ‘We are delighted to have put on another brilliant regatta and thank everybody for coming along to support the community and local businesses, while helping to raise important funds for our two chosen charities.

Related:Fred. Olsen hosts tour of Borealis in Dover

‘We had a brilliant set of sponsors this year, with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines helping to make the Dragon Boat Race a huge success. It attracted the largest number of teams we have had, all determined not to be defeated by the strong winds.

‘My huge thanks go to our sponsors Fred. Olsen, DFDS and Perrys, and the organisations that worked with us to provide great memories…’ 

The event will return in 2025.