There’s a sea change of excitement in the air as Plettenberg Bay prepares to celebrate a landmark milestone: the 5th annual Plett Ocean Festival and Marine Science Symposium, proudly supported by TAVCOR, taking place from 3 – 12 July 2026.
This year’s festival is set to be a vibrant celebration of our deep blue heritage, an unforgettable blend of adventure where land and ocean meet, paired with meaningful, heart-led conversations around community conservation.
A Theme That Matters: Observe. Conserve. Preserve.
Under the festival’s core theme “Observe. Conserve. Preserve.”, the 2026 edition marks five years of transforming Plett into a winter playground that bridges world-class marine science with coastal joy.
“We are seeing a shift in how people perceive and protect our marine ecosystems, moving from simple curiosity to meaningful, active stewardship,” explains festival director, Cindy Wilson Trollip.
Zandi the Mermaid Returns to Inspire
Leading the celebrations this year is the incomparable Zandile Ndlovu, globally recognised as “Zandi the Mermaid.”
A passionate advocate for ocean diversity and conservation, Zandi returns to Plett in a dynamic, multi-faceted role. She will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the Marine Science Symposium, join the expert speaker lineup, host community storytelling sessions in local townships and lead her much-anticipated underwater workshop in collaboration with Adopt-a-Swimmer.
As a filmmaker, author and freediver, her presence will resonate both above and below the surface, connecting communities to the ocean in powerful, lasting ways.
“We’re five years to 2030, with so many commitments to nature and biodiversity protection at a global level, there’s never been a more critical time to bring community, science and conservation efforts together,” says Ndlovu, referencing the global 30×30 Initiative to protect 30 percent of Earth’s land and oceans by 2030.
Highlights: From Waves to World-Class Exploration
Visitors can expect the 2026 festival to span the full spectrum of maritime life. Early highlights include the return of the Wedge Classic, South Africa’s premier bodyboarding event, and a keynote appearance by the Alexforbes ArchAngel crew, winners of the Cape2Rio Yacht Race, offering a rare look into the grit and glory of ocean crossing.
These anchor events are just the beginning. A full, multi-layered programme will soon be unveiled, promising adventure, discovery and unforgettable ocean experiences.
Save the Date and Get Involved
From guided shore walks and marine safaris to deep-dive symposium sessions, the festival offers something for every ocean enthusiast.
Festival Dates: 3 – 12 July 2026
Marine Science Symposium: 10 – 12 July 2026
Bookings Open: 1 June 2026
For more information and to explore the evolving fifth anniversary programme, visit the official festival website.
A Celebration with Purpose
As the Plett Ocean Festival enters its fifth year, it stands as more than just an event. It is a movement that brings together science, storytelling and community to protect what matters most, our oceans.
This winter, Plettenberg Bay is not just a destination, it is where inspiration meets action.
