From 7.30pm Friday until 5pm Sunday the sounds of traditional and contemporary sea music will ring out from the West Pier, the Sea Cadets hall and three nearby pubs: the Leeds Arms, the Merchant and the Leeds Hotel.

The music is just one element of a diverse programme of events and activities including cookery demonstrations and masterclases, a songwriting competition, a film premiere, street theatre, a fireworks display and a Cropton Brewery beer tent.

Three tall ships – the Grand Turk, the North East Guardian and the Reaper – will drop anchor in the harbour.

This year's performers include French singer Flossie Mallavialle, Dutch shanty choir Kaapstander and the Endeavour Shantymen, featuring festival stalwart Richard Grainger and accordeon virtuoso Chris Parkinson.

Other artists are coming from various parts of Yorkshire, Tyneside, London, Scotland and Ireland.

They will be joined by the Algerinos, a local trio whose new CD, Bully in the Alley, will be launched at the same time.

It consists of rousing three-part harmony sea shanties and will be available at performances and at the merchandise kiosk on the pier.

The competition is being organised by Richard, who runs Klondike Folk Arts. To enter, ring 01287 660060 before the weekend or pop into the festival office on the west pier over the weekend. No entry fee is charged. The winner and runners-up will be eligible for the KFA award for song of the year.

"This is all part of our drive to promote songwriting and our relationship with the sea, its heritage and as a natural environment," says Richard.

l The full programme can be seen online at www.scarborougheveningnews.co.uk and www.seafest.org.uk