National maritime charity, the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, is once again on the lookout for photographers to submit their favourite images of the sea, for its fourteenth annual competition honouring the UK and Ireland’s proud maritime heritage.
The competition encourages photographers of all abilities to submit images that capture the British Isles’ lasting relationship with the sea – including its merchant ships, fishermen, coasts, harbours and ports.
In the competition’s fourteenth year, the Society is encouraging individuals to go out and capture new stunning sea views for their photo albums, with the overall competition winner receiving a £1,000 photographic equipment voucher. The competition also aligns with the Society’s Seafarers Support Week appeal launching on 22nd June to raise awareness of the dangers and sacrifices faced by those who work at sea and recognising the vital contribution the maritime and fishing industries play in preserving our standard of living.
In addition to the dedicated entry submission form on the Society’s website, entrants can also submit photos through its Instagram channel (@ShipwreckedMariners) by using the hashtag #SMSPhotoComp2026.
The competition will once again be judged by a prestigious panel of experts, including former Sunday Times Picture Editor, Ray Wells, former Picture Editor of the i, Sophie Batterbury, and the Chief Executive of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, Capt. Justin Osmond RN.
Discussing the launch of the competition, Captain Justin Osmond RN, said: “As we launch this year’s competition, I continue to be inspired by the creativity and passion shown by entrants from across the nation. Year after year the entries reflect not only exceptional talent, but a deep respect for the UK and Ireland’s coastlines and maritime heritage. I am confident this upcoming competition will be yet another fantastic showcase!
“While our maritime industry and those who work at sea can often go unnoticed and unappreciated, their role in shaping our past, supporting our present, and securing our future cannot be overstated. The competition serves as a great platform for us to proudly exhibit and commemorate our enduring connection to the sea.”
The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society supports fishers, merchant mariners and their dependants who are suffering financial hardship, whether due to accident, ill health, unemployment or in retirement after a life spent working at sea.
To enter the competition, individuals can submit their photographs through the dedicated form before the deadline on 24 August 2026. Photographers can also enter their pictures via email, post or on the Society’s Instagram channel (@ShipwreckedMariners) using the hashtag #SMSPhotoComp2026.
