Bays Brewery is making waves this spring with the launch of its second charity beer of 2026, ‘Afloat’ (Alc 4.3% Vol)– a refreshing pale ale brewed in partnership with Torbay-based charity Above Water.
Launching in early May, ‘Afloat’ is a vibrant copper-coloured pale ale that celebrates the region’s deep connection to the coast, pairing gentle waves of crisp citrus character with fruity notes. Available in bottles, beer boxes and on tap across Devon, 5% of all proceeds will support Above Water’s work promoting water safety and drowning prevention through its awareness programmes.
The launch also coincides with a landmark moment for the region, as the English Riviera prepares to host the prestigious 2026 ICF SUP World Cup from 24–28 June 2026. For the first time ever, the international stand-up paddleboarding event will take place across the sheltered waters of Torbay, cementing its reputation as the UK’s stand-up paddleboarding capital.
Director of Bays Brewery, Peter Salmon, said: “Living and brewing on the coast, we see first-hand just how important the sea is to our community – for work, for leisure and for wellbeing. ‘Afloat’ celebrates that connection, while also supporting the incredible work Above Water does to keep people safe. With the SUP World Cup coming to the English Riviera, it feels like the perfect moment to bring people together over a beer that not only tastes great, but also helps deliver an important message.”
Brendon Prince, Founder of Above Water, nine-time world record SUP Champion and Director of the SUP World Cup 2026, added: “Every year, too many lives are lost through preventable drowning incidents, and education is key to changing that. Partnerships like this help us reach more people with life-saving knowledge. The English Riviera is the perfect place to showcase both world-class paddleboarding and the importance of water safety. Having ‘Afloat’ as part of the event helps us spread that message even further – and we’re incredibly grateful to Bays Brewery for their support.”
‘Afloat’ is the second of four charity beers being brewed by the family-run Torbay brewery in 2026, each supporting a local cause close to its heart.
For its third charity brew of 2026, Bays Brewery will reunite with long-standing partners Paignton Zoo to bring back one of its most popular animal ales, ‘Tall Order’. Completing the 2026 Charity Brew line-up in November is the return of festive favourite ‘Jingle Ale’ – a ho-ho hoppy bitter brewed in support of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).
Find out more through the Bays Brewery website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
