The International Maritime Film Festival (IMFF) is an annual juried contest of feature-length and short films that celebrate maritime heritage, the spirit of ocean adventure, the ingenuity of boats and waterborne pursuits, and the relationships we have with special environments . It is the premier event for maritime-themed filmmaking.

The 2025 festival, the 9th season of IMFF, will take place online (Vimeo on demand) and in person. Scheduled events will post here.

Awards & Prizes

The Grand Prize Feature Length Film winner receives $500.
One runner-up receives US$250.
The Grand Prize Short Film winner receives $250.
One runner-up receives US$100.
* Festival-organizers and jury reserve the right to split prizes for co-award-winning films

Rules & Terms

The International Maritime Film Festival accepts documentary films on a broad range of ocean environment and maritime subjects. These include, but are not limited to, voyaging, racing, working, leisure, boatbuilding and restoration, historical documentary, environment, climate, science, advocacy, climate change, marine species, and the spirit of adventure. Films may have been made on any date, regardless of previous premiere, but the person submitting the film must be the copyright holder. Judging is not category-specific; rather, all films are evaluated in relation to each other, in one of two tracks: Feature Length (40 minutes or more), or Short (under 40 minutes). All films are to be in English or to carry English subtitles.

Learn more: https://www.maritimefilmfestival.com/.

6 Reviews
Overall Rating
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  • Danielle Clode

    So honoured to have our documentary selected as runner up for this film festival. I love the way they promote the selected films on Vimeo - it feels like such a carefully curated list with such diversity and creativity around the maritime theme. A very special festival and a very special commendation. Thanks.

    November 2023
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  • Thor F. Jensen

    Great communication, good organisers. I didn't go in person but am very grateful for having our film SAILAU on this festival. A great way to reach the sailing community in the US. Thanks!

    November 2023
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  • Giannandrea Carpanzano

    a great festival where everything is well organised and well run

    November 2023
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  • Paula Fouce

    The Maritime International Film Festival screens a fabulous slate of films that really educate and entertain the public. Aquariums: The Dark Hobby is honored to take part.

    November 2022
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  • Cameron pinchbeck

    thank you so much for selecting our film "Dental Floss"

    October 2021
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