'Bigger and better' open day at Portsmouth International Port as free tickets available - when

A free open day at Portsmouth International Port promises to be “bigger and better” than ever.

Tickets are up for grabs to attend the summer community event, where visitors can catch a glimpse of what goes on at the port on a daily basis. The community event will take place on June 13 from 10am to 4pm - celebrating the port’s 50th anniversary.

Harbour master Ben McInnes said: "We're really excited to be bringing the open day back this year, and it promises to be even bigger and better than before. Visitors will be able to get onboard ships, meet the crew, and learn all about how the port operates and who we work with.

“The port is owned by the city, so it is important we engage with the local community and inspire the next generation of maritime careers. We're lucky we have a fantastic harbour where people can spot ships coming in and out everyday, and this is a chance for people to see them up close."

Sign up for The Week in Defence with Freddie Webb - our newsletter rounding up the sector’s must-read stories

Guests can expect to join ship tours and have access to a range of vessels up close, alongside a range of impressive machinery. They’ll also be able to get their hands on cargo handling equipment and enjoy the interactive stands, from maritime exhibitors to local businesses.

The last open day in 2023 saw over 1,800 people attend and of those surveyed after the event, 90 per cent said they would come again. The quayside will showcase maritime activities including water displays and ship movements, with visitors also given the chance to experience the port’s innovative net carbon neutral terminal extension.

Portsmouth City Council leader Steve Pitt previously said: “The port is widely regarded as the UK’s most successful local authority owned port, the anniversary offers the opportunity to celebrate the progress and the important role it plays as a city owned port on a local, national and international level.”

Sign up for the free open day by visiting the port’s website here.