10th International Shanty Choir Festival

Shanty Singing at Wilhelmshaven's Bontekai

Shanties are the traditional work songs of sailors from the age of tall ships. They were sung in rhythm with the hard work on board – when hoisting the anchor, setting the sails, pumping. Today, they are preserved as musical heritage by shanty choirs. The International Shanty Choir Festival in Wilhelmshaven is one of the most important gatherings of these choirs in the German-speaking world.

Floating Stages – The Special Staging

What makes the Wilhelmshaven festival special is its staging: floating stages are erected on naval tugboats from which the choirs sing. This merges music, the harbor backdrop, and maritime roots into an unmistakable experience. The audience sits at Bontekai, looking out over the water, listening to songs that have been sung by sailors for centuries – a form of performance that is only possible in Wilhelmshaven.

International Choirs and Labskaus

The participating choirs come from different countries, each bringing their own tradition. English Sea Shanties, Dutch Zeemansliederen, German and Scandinavian repertoires provide a comprehensive overview of Europe's maritime choir landscape. A culinary highlight is Labskaus – the traditional sailor's dish, served directly from the naval kitchen. Bratwurst, draft beer, and non-alcoholic drinks complement the gastronomic offerings. Admission is free.