Shipshape and Bristol Fashion

We kick off season two live from the Bristol Shanty Shout, right in the thick of the singing, with loads of live tracks, crew banter and proper behind‑the‑scenes chat about what keeps shanty life ticking. I’m Oggy and we give a quick primer for anyone new — shanties are old maritime work songs, usually sung a cappella to sync the crew and lift the mood, and you’ll hear how they sound when the whole pub (or dockyard) joins in.

We’ve got Chilli’s Signaler roundup — all our recent gigs and where we’ll be next — plus extended chats with crews like Stunsels, Beaufort Scale, Missing Tackle and High and Dry, who share tour tales from mine shafts to the SS Great Britain.

I also sit down with Phil, the festival organiser, who walks us through the festival’s history, logistics, and the charities we support (yes, proper good causes like RNLI and local prostate support). Expect a lively mix of songs from stages and ships, sticky‑voiced humour, salty anecdotes and a big focus on community — why we do this, who we meet, and how the scene keeps growing. If you love maritime music, or fancy a whistle and a laugh, come sail with us — winds and following seas, and we’ll see you next time. For the music nerds and the curious alike, we serve up a deep-dive into the songs, styles and stages. I narrate our live recordings from the Bristol Shanty Shout — everything from rollicking “South Australia” and “Farewell to Nova Scotia” to more local, Cornwall-flavoured numbers — and explain the basics: shanties are work songs, often call-and-response, designed to set a rhythm for hauling, heaving and other shipboard tasks.

You’ll hear the difference between a pub sing (fast, punchy, foot-stompy) and a church-set (slow, harmony-rich, goosebump-inducing). We spotlight crews like Stunsels (rowing roots), Beaufort Scale (close-harmony fellas), High and Dry (who’ve morphed from garden-fete starters into full-on festival regulars), and Missing Tackle (theatre-to-shanty storytellers), each bringing their own flavour to the same old sea-tales. Beyond performances, I chat about arranging a cappella harmonies, how crews adapt songs for different venues (from the echoey Underfall Yard to the cosy Nova Scotia Hotel), and why singing together literally helps with breath and community — yes, it’s wholesome and slightly muscular. We wrap with invites to upcoming gigs, a call for listener feedback (take our survey if you fancy), and a tease for Dean Callan’s new maritime-music segment. If you love music that’s raw, human and full of history — and you like your storytelling served with banter and a beer — this summary’s for you.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/survey

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Hey there, shipmates! This episode is all about taking a breather and having a little chinwag about what we’ve been doing on *Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion*. We’re hitting pause this month to soak up the summer vibes and get our creative juices flowing for season two. We’re asking you, our loyal listeners, to drop us some feedback—like what floats your boat and what sinks it! Your thoughts are gonna help us steer this ship in the right direction, so head over to our website and fill out a quick survey, will ya? Plus, mark your calendars for September 30th—it’s International Podcasting Day, and we’re gonna celebrate all things pod-tastic! So, sit back, relax, and let’s make this next season even more awesome together!

We're diving into the heart of the summer festival scene, folks! This episode is all about the magic of community and music, as we recount our recent adventures at various shanty festivals, including the unforgettable Woodfest, where we helped raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. We’ve got tales about belting out shanties, wrangling crowds, and the camaraderie that comes with performing together. It’s not just about the tunes; it's about making memories, supporting causes close to our hearts, and sharing some good ol' banter along the way! So grab your grog, settle in, and let’s ride the waves of joy and laughter as we recount our shanty escapades!

Takeaways:

• This episode dives deep into the vibrant world of sea shanties, showcasing how these spirited songs bring people together in an unforgettable way.
• We learned about the heartwarming connection between the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and the Teenage Cancer Trust, highlighting the importance of charity in their performances.
• The crew reminisced about their summer gigs, including the Bristol Harbour Festival, which was packed with laughter, camaraderie, and a ton of singing.
• Listeners got a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes of organizing events like Woodfest and how much effort goes into making them successful.
• Ollie Shanty Boy shared his excitement about performing in Holland, emphasizing the joy of traveling and singing with friends.
• The episode wrapped up with a promise of more fun adventures to come, reminding everyone to keep their spirits high and enjoy the music.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Teenage Cancer Trust
• Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
• Woodfest
• Harbour Festival
• Falmouth International Shanty Festival
• RNLI
• DZ Boys
• Kilkenny Bay
• Tawny Shanty Men
• Lower Deckers
• Cleveland
• Cassenion

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Ahoy, friends! We’re diving into the heart of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! This episode is packed tighter than a sailor's sea chest with highlights, interviews, and some seriously catchy tunes from our fellow shanty-loving crews. We're soaking up the vibes and chatting with everyone from seasoned shanty singers to first-time festival-goers, all while basking in the sunny Cornish weather that’s blessed us this year. We’ve got stories of camaraderie, laughter, and maybe a couple of slightly off-key notes, but hey, that’s what makes it all the more fun! So, grab a mug of your favorite grog, kick back, and let’s set sail on this musical journey together!

Takeaways:

• This episode celebrates the vibrant atmosphere of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, showcasing the joy of community singing.
• We explore how sea shanties have evolved and how they bring people together across cultures and generations.
• Listeners get an inside look at various shanty crews, highlighting their unique stories and musical styles, which adds to the festival's charm.
• The crew discusses the importance of embracing diversity in shanty music, making it accessible and relevant for today's audiences.
• The episode highlights the festival's impact on local businesses and the community, emphasizing the economic benefits of such cultural events.
• We share some hilarious moments from the festival, reminding everyone that laughter and fun are just as important as the music.

Links referenced in this episode:

• scuttlebuttshantycrew.com
• falmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.com
• portisbshantyfestival.com
• ilfracombeshantyfestival.com
• armstrongspadens.com
• orkneyseashantysociety.com

Links referenced in this episode:

• falmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.com
• scuttlebuttshantycrew.com
• ilfracombeshantyfestival.com
• orkneyseashantysociety.com
• armstrongspader.nl

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
• Portal Bristol Shanty
• Rusty Tubbs
• Molly Loggers
• Catch of the Day
• Scuttlebutt
• Oggy Men
• The Longest Johns
• Barrel Seagals
• Seaweed in the Fruit Locker
• Orkney Sea Shanty Society
• Severn Whalers
• Hay Shanty Men
• Barnacle Boys
• 85ers

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

We're diving into the good vibes of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2026, and let me tell you, it's a blast! From the get-go, we’re all about celebrating the spirit of this wild gathering, where over 500 folks packed in to sip on some brews and belt out shanties like nobody's business. We’ve got our crew—Oggy, Ollie, and the legendary Tom Lewis—sharing their highlights, reflections, and a few cheeky anecdotes from the festival floor. It’s all about the music, the laughter, and those moments where the crowd sings so loud you can’t hear yourself think! So grab a pint, kick back, and join us as we relive the fun, the tunes, and all the shenanigans from this epic weekend!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive into the highlights of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere and incredible talent present at the event.
• Our crew reflects on the fantastic turnout of over 500 attendees on the first day, highlighting the joy and camaraderie shared among festival-goers and performers.
• We discuss the importance of the variety of singing styles at the festival, which provides an educational experience for both performers and audience members alike.
• Tom shares his heartfelt appreciation for the organization and hospitality of the event, emphasizing how well everything was run for a young festival.
• Listen in as we recount some hilarious moments, including a pint-fueled evening that left us all in high spirits, proving once again that laughter is the best medicine!
• We also take a moment to appreciate our fellow performers and the unique fusion of music styles that make this shanty festival a truly special gathering for everyone involved.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Rusty Tubs
• Port of Bristol Shanty crew
• Real Ale and Shanty Festival
• Sir Thomas Rich's Grammar School for Boys
• Severn Area Rescue Authority
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• Falmouth International Shanty Festival
• Scrimshank Shanty
• Backbeach Boys
• Wurzels
• Madison's
• Thornbury Sailing Club
• Snuffy Jacks
• Henry Davis
• Brynn

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Chapters

Today, we’re diving into the vibrant world of maritime music with none other than Dean Calin, the man behind the Maritime Music Directory International! This convo is all about how this directory is not just a treasure trove for shanty lovers, but also a lifeline for artists looking to connect with fans and each other. We’ll be sharing some hilarious tales from our gigs, and trust me, you don’t want to miss Dean’s wild stories about how he got into this genre—spoiler alert: it involves a Catholic school and some unexpected sea shanties! Plus, we’ll chat about the upcoming shanty festivals and how you can get involved in the community. So, grab your headphones and get ready to sail through some fun tunes and laughs with us—this episode is sure to blow the cobwebs off your sea legs!

Takeaways:

1. In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of maritime music and the unique culture surrounding shanty crews, exploring how these musical traditions keep the spirit of the sea alive.
2. We chat with Dean Callan, who shares his journey from a private school in Chicago to becoming a key player in the maritime music scene, highlighting the importance of community in this genre.
3. The Maritime Music Directory International aims to connect artists and fans, showcasing the rich history and variety of maritime music with over a thousand groups and 400 venues listed. https://seashanties4all.com/
4. Listeners will discover how the pandemic spurred the growth of maritime music online, making it easier for new fans to engage with shanty culture and fostering a sense of global community.
5. We discuss upcoming events and festivals, including the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, which brings together shanty crews and fans for a weekend of music, fun, and community spirit.
6. Finally, we emphasize the importance of supporting maritime music, whether through attending events, donating to the Maritime Music Directory, or simply sharing the joy of shanty singing with friends.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Maritime Music Directory International
2. Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
3. Thornbury Action Art
4. Teenage Cancer Trust
5. Falmouth International Shanty Festival
6. Bristol Harbour Festival
7. Newport Shanty Festival
8. Nobby
9. Tom Lewis
10. Alela Diane
11. Brandy
12. Longest Johns

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Chapters

Yo, folks! We're diving into the deep end of sea shanties and good vibes in this episode, and let me tell ya, the upcoming Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival happening in Bristol on May 9th and 10th, 2026. We're talking about an epic gathering at Freemasons Hall, where the legendary Porter Bristol Shanty Crew will be belting out tunes alongside special guest Tom Lewis. And don't even get me started on the atmosphere—it's gonna be a blast with powerful harmonies, maritime history, and a selection of real ales and ciders that’ll have you singing all night long!

We also hear from people who attended the Bristol Trelawny shout , with Olly the Shanty Boy

We’ve also got some heartwarming stories, like our chat with Katherine Collins, who shares her journey of overcoming challenges to perform on stage as a mermaid.

Takeaways:

• The Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival is coming back to Bristol in May 2026, and it's going to be a blast with tons of shanty singers and good vibes.
• Singing sea shanties isn't just about music; it's a way to connect with maritime history and celebrate community spirit, which is super cool.
• Catherine Collins, a member of the shanty crew, shares her inspiring journey overcoming health challenges to perform and even become a mermaid on stage.
• The shanty scene is all about inclusivity and accessibility, showing that anyone can join in the fun, no matter their background or abilities.
• Live music, community bonding, and drinking real ales are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable weekend at the shanty festival!
• Sea shanties are making a serious comeback, riding the wave of popularity thanks to viral hits like 'Wellerman' and bringing people together in harmony.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.aleandshanty.co.uk

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
• Tom Lewis
• cask
• Thunderbox
• Bristol Girls
• Severn Whalers
• Boscastle Boys
• Vancouver Mermaid
• Royal British Legion

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Cornish shanties! This episode is all about the lively atmosphere surrounding St. Piran’s Day and how the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew is shaking things up this spring. We’re chattin’ with the legend Thunderbox, who’s dishing out the scoop on the Cornish shanty scene, from its roots in tin mines to the lively pubs where the magic happens today. Plus, we’ve got some of our classic tunes lined up to keep your spirits high, and we’ll even give you the lowdown on where you can catch us live in the coming month. So grab a pint, kick back, and let’s get our shanty on! Set sail into the melodic world of maritime tunes with Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion, where host Oggie and the crew are diving deep into the vibrant Cornish shanty scene. This episode is a special treat, coinciding with St. Piran's Day, celebrating the patron saint of Cornwall. Oggie kicks things off with a warm welcome, reminiscing about the joys of spring and the return of shanty singing across the UK. The vibe is electric as they tease out some juicy insights into the Cornish shanty tradition, with anecdotes that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting right there in a cozy pub, pint in hand. Our special guest, Thunderbox, takes us on a rollicking ride through the historical roots of shanty singing in Cornwall, tracing it back to the days of tin and lead miners. He shares tales of the legendary Fisherman’s Friends and how they sparked a shanty renaissance in local pubs. With a wink and a nod, Thunderbox highlights the communal spirit of these gatherings, where everyone’s invited to join in the singing, regardless of skill level. You can almost hear the sea breeze and feel the camaraderie as he describes the lively atmosphere of Cornish pubs where shanty singing thrives. To wrap things up, our musical director Doc treats us to a whimsical ditty about the Port of Bristol Shanty Gnomes, perfectly capturing the playful essence of maritime life. This episode is a joyful celebration of music, community, and the rich traditions of Cornwall, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the shanty scene. So, grab your headphones and get ready to haul away with some catchy tunes that’ll have you singing along in no time!

Takeaways:

1. We kicked off the episode with a warm welcome, celebrating St. Piran's Day and the vibrant Cornish culture.
2. Thunderbox gave us a deep dive into the history of shanty singing in Cornwall, starting back with miners and fishermen.
3. The Port of Bristol Shanty Crew is totally revving up for a busy 2026, with gigs and festivals to keep us dancing and singing.
4. Our musical director Doc is a wizard, crafting a fun poem about the Port of Bristol Shanty Gnomes that had us giggling and singing along.
5. The shanty scene is all about community and good vibes, bringing folks together for nights filled with laughter and music.
6. We wrapped things up by encouraging listeners to catch us on social media, because we love connecting with you all and sharing our musical journey.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
2. Fisherman's Friends
3. Barrett's Privateers
4. Teenage Cancer Trust
5. Oakland Construction
6. Tithe Barn Dementia Choir
7. Highndry
8. Royal British Legion
9. Nova Scotia
10. Will Keating

Get your Real Ale and Shanty Festival tickets soon at aleandshanty.co.uk

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Get ready to set sail with us as we dive into the world of shanties in this episode of Shipshape and Bristol Fashion! We’re chattin’ with the legendary Nobby, our resident shanty expert, who’s got more sea stories than you can shake a stick at. We also catch up with Ash, our go-to signaller, who fills us in on all the latest news and upcoming gigs for the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew. Spoiler alert: we've got a busy 2026 ahead, with the Real Ale and Shanty Festival coming up in May, featuring the one and only Tom Lewis! So grab a pint, kick back, and let’s hoist the sails on some nautical nonsense and tunes that’ll have you singing along before you know it!

Takeaways:

1. This episode dives into the shanty world, sharing juicy tidbits and interviews with talented singers.
2. We learned about the upcoming Real Ale and Shanty Festival on May 9th and 10th, which promises to be a blast.
3. The crew reflects on their journey, emphasizing the tight-knit community and support from listeners like you.
4. Nobby, our resident shanty expert, shares delightful stories and knowledge from the captain's quarters.
5. Ash, our signaller, updates us on recent gigs and events, highlighting the fun times ahead for the crew.
6. The podcast encourages other shanty crews to get in touch, promoting a collaborative spirit among sea song lovers.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Nova Scotia Bristol
2. Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
3. Oakland Construction
4. Freemasons hall

Get your Real Ale and Shanty Festival tickets soon at aleandshanty.co.uk

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

We're diving into some heartfelt waters this time around, folks! First off, we’re dedicating this whole episode to the amazing Barbara, Chillis mum, who recently passed. She was a superhero in her own right, always championing the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and doing incredible work in her community. We’re feeling all the feels as we remember her spirit and the impact she had on our lives. But it's not all somber vibes; we also get into the nitty-gritty of a fantastic collaborative concert we pulled off for the Vale Wildlife Hospital, raising over £6,200! Talk about a win-win, right? So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s celebrate the power of community and the joy of music while keeping Barbara’s memory alive!

Donate to Vale https://www.valewildlife.org.uk/membership/

Find out more about Rhys https://thenightchurchpianist.co.uk/

Takeaways:

1. This episode kicks off on a heartfelt note, as we remember Barbara, Chillis Mum, who recently passed away, and we dedicate this episode to her legacy.
2. We dive into the success of the collaborative concert for the Vale Wildlife Hospital, which raised over £6,227, showcasing the power of community support.
3. Charlotte shares her journey from a passionate volunteer at Vale Wildlife Hospital to becoming a regional finalist at the Pride of Britain Awards, highlighting the impact of grassroots efforts.
4. The podcast emphasizes the importance of wildlife hospitals like Vale, which treat around 8,000 patients yearly, and rely entirely on donations without any government funding.
5. Listeners are encouraged to donate to the Vale Wildlife Hospital, and reminded that even small contributions can make a big difference in animal care and rehabilitation.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. valewildlife.org.uk

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved