Pontikus Launches Coastal Memories 2026, a Free Global Photography Competition Celebrating Life by the Sea

LONDON, United Kingdom – Pontikus has launched Pontikus Coastal Memories 2026, a free global photography competition inviting people around the world to share the images, places and stories that define their connection with the coast. Open to photographers of all experience levels, the competition celebrates the many meanings of coastal life: family holidays, working harbours, fishing communities, beaches, boats, waterfront towns, marine heritage, changing weather, wildlife and the everyday moments that make shorelines memorable.

Entrants can submit photographs that capture a personal coastal memory or tell a wider story about the sea and the communities that live alongside it. The competition is designed to create an inclusive visual record of coastlines worldwide, connecting local experience with a growing international community of sea lovers, maritime professionals, coastal businesses and heritage-minded contributors.

“Every coastline holds memories,” said a spokesperson for Pontikus. “They may be moments of work, travel, family, adventure, loss, belonging or simple quiet reflection. Coastal Memories 2026 is an invitation to share those moments and help build a broader global picture of what the coast means to people.”

The competition is free to enter and offers participants the opportunity to win Pontikus Points, while also gaining visibility through the Pontikus coastal platform. Entries will contribute to a wider celebration of coastal identity, maritime culture and the landscapes that connect communities across borders. Pontikus encourages submissions from every part of the world, including established photographers, emerging creatives, sailors, fishers, port workers, residents of coastal towns, travellers and anyone with a meaningful image from the shore.

The competition closes on 15 October 2026. To view the competition details and submit an entry, visit: Pontikus Coastal Memories 2026.

Suggested themes
Photography entries may explore:
- Coastal communities and everyday seaside life
- Harbours, ports, boats and maritime work
- Family memories, holidays and personal connections to the sea
- Coastal heritage, traditions and local history
- Wildlife, weather, beaches and changing shorelines
- Waterfront architecture, fishing villages and port cities
- Moments of reflection, adventure and discovery by the water

About Pontikus
Pontikus is a global marine registry and coastal platform connecting sea lovers, maritime professionals, shoreline businesses, communities and organisations. Through curated profiles, coastal content, local discovery and member participation, Pontikus aims to make the world’s coastal and maritime ecosystems more visible, connected and accessible. For more information, visit pontikus.com.