Blessing of the Boats: Historic tradition seeking protection for mariners

Blessing of the Boats 2026 held at Whitby Lifeboat Station. Picture: Ceri Oakes
Whitby Anchor by Emma Ryan

Ahead of the summer fishing season, Whitby has asked for luck and protection for all its folk heading out into the seas.

The annual Blessing of the Boats ceremony – hosted in conjunction with the local clergy and RNLI – was held on Sunday afternoon.

Father Michael Gobbett led the Blessing of the Boats 2026 held at Whitby Lifeboat Station. Picture: Ceri Oakes

This year’s ceremony was led by Father Michael Gobbett, the Vicar of the Parish of Whitby with Ruswarp.

He was joined by current and past members of Whitby’s lifeboat crews, as well as local fishermen, sailors and mariners who head out of the port.

Town Mayor Sandra Turner at the Blessing of the Boats 2026 held at Whitby Lifeboat Station. Picture: Ceri Oakes

The event was well attended with civic guests, North Yorkshire Council chair David Chance, Whitby Mayor Sandra Turner, Friends of Whitby Lifeboat as well as members of the public.

Crew, Friends of Whitby Lifeboat and the public attended the event. Picture: Ceri Oakes
Blessing of the Boats at Whitby Lifeboat Station. Picture: Ceri Oakes
Blessing of the Boats 2026 held at Whitby Lifeboat Station. Picture: Ceri Oakes

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