The cancellation of the annual Non-Mariners Race did nothing to dampen the party spirit in the West End this afternoon.

Hundreds of boats rafted up in Mangrove Bay as revellers took to the water on inflatables to enjoy the sunshine and swizzle on the Sunday after Cup Match.

A lone makeshift marine non-craft — a bathtub with a banner reading “non event it’s a wash” — was visible on the beach.

Waymond Hill said he was disappointed by the cancellation of the event, which was announced by Sandys Boat Club in June.

He added: “It’s just something that’s so much different.

“It was an opportunity for some fun, some laughter, to take a jab at the political scene and not have to worry about someone coming after you.”

The 48-year-old Pembroke resident was working at the Ashley’s Lemonade stand to give his daughter the day off.

Mr Hill said: “She has been working hard the last few days.

“She’s definitely a trooper. I’m happy to call her my boss.”

He described the raft up event as “a good opportunity to meet the locals”. Mr Hill added: “Everybody’s friendly.”

Natasha Dowling said the cancellation of the Non-Mariner Race was the loss of “a little bit of fun”.

But the Somerset resident added: “I don’t think it’s taken away from the atmosphere.”

Ms Dowling said that the day had become a family event.

She added: “I think we come out because we know the kids want to have a good time after Cup Match.”

Ms Dowling said the day was a good way to enjoy the company of fellow Bermudians as well as a beautiful beach.

She added: “You’re going to have food, fun, fellowship and just craziness.”

Dante Dandridge, 21, said it was his first time attending the raft up event.

The Devonshire resident explained: “Most Sundays I usually work — but I worked yesterday so I got today off.”

He described the event as a good time with “lots of people and lots of music”.

Mr Dandridge added: “It’s a very good vibe.”

Jason Gonsalves, 22, said he had attended the raft up since he was a child.

The Smiths resident added: “It’s just a tradition that my family and I always do — just a way to end Cup Match.”

Mr Gonsalves said that a giant inflatable and a boat with a DJ set-up on the roof were some the highlights for his this year.

He added: “You always seem something new.”

Dana MacDonald was attending her first raft up in Bermuda.

Ms MacDonald, visiting from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, said: “I’m liking it a lot.

“It’s a change of pace from Eastern Canada.”