Some 23 teams are already signed for the challenge, including BP Shipping, Cargill, Intertanko, Rio Tinto Marine, Clarksons, Red Funnel, Marine Accident Investigation Branch, BP Hamble, Freight Investor Services, The Baltic Exchange, Maersk, Morgan Stanley, Steamship and Inchcape.

Each crew consists of ten paddlers, a beating drummer at the bow, and a steering helm. The festival promises a fun day for competitors and spectators alike, with additional activities including a tug of war, human table football, and children’s activities such as a bouncey castle, and face painting.

Funds raised will help BISS to continue its work providing practical facilities, welfare, assistance and advice to seafarers and their families wherever there is a need. Further information is available from Email: events@biss.org.uk or visit www.biss.org.uk.