Races and Regattas Guide 2024: Summer of Sailing Festivals
Get set for summer with our races and regattas guide!
With a wealth of weekend to week-long dinghy and yacht racing festivals in 2024 – hosted by some of our finest inland, river and coastal venues – whatever your boat, holiday allowance or budget, there is a regatta for you!
Whether you’re looking for races and regattas in Ireland, wanting to fill up your diary with all the East Coast events, or keen for an insider tip for Cowes Week, our 2024 races and regattas guide has it all.
NORTH – Races and Regattas
BASSENTHWAITE WEEK
3-11 August, Bassenthwaite SC, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria
OVERVIEW: Nine days of racing in the beautiful Lake District, with a great family environment. Camping available on site and a full social programme for all ages. Mix of fleet and handicap racing, with some races run as a series whilst others are one-offs. Excellent value summer race week and one of the most popular open events in the north of England.
INSIDER TIP: Discounted ‘early bird’ entries open from 2 April.
SPONSOR: Craftinsure
WEBSITE: bassweek.org.uk
FILEY REGATTA
13-14 July, Filey SC, Filey Bay, North Yorkshire
OVERVIEW: Great family-friendly open regatta over two days with three or four races per day. Sail in four handicap fleets in beautiful Filey Bay. Food and drink available from the beach side clubhouse all weekend. Email fileysc@gmail.com for more details.
INSIDER TIP: Camping and parking available in Filey Country Park just a five-minute walk away.
WEBSITE: fileysc.org.uk
LORD BIRKETT MEMORIAL TROPHY
6-7 July, Ullswater Yacht Club, Pooley Bridge, Cumbria
OVERVIEW: Ullswater Yacht Club’s biggest event of the year is the iconic long-distance Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy. This quest for the ‘Holy Grail’ of a Birkett win attracts keen sailors from national champions to novices in a huge range of different boats. A festival of sailing!
INSIDER TIP: Entries are now open on the dedicated Birkett website.
SPONSOR: Magic Marine
WEBSITE: ullswaterycbirkett.org
EAST – Races and Regattas
ALDEBURGH REGATTA
11-15 August, Aldeburgh Junior & Youth Regatta
18-23 August, Aldeburgh Regatta, Aldeburgh YC, Suffolk
OVERVIEW: Aldeburgh Junior & Youth regatta is for all ages up to 21 years old. All boats welcome, with a coached regatta fleet for RS Tera sailors. Aldeburgh Regatta the following week is open to all classes of keelboats, dinghies & cruisers. Racing each day with social events throughout the week.
WEBSITE: aldeburghyc.org.uk
BLACKWATER CLUB WEEK
18-23 August 2024, Blackwater SC, Heybridge, Essex
OVERVIEW: A flagship event in the calendar at Blackwater SC, Club Week offers a fun week of sailing, racing and socialising on the river with fleets ranging from Optimists to Fast Cruisers, and a packed social programme. The club also has its 125th Anniversary Regatta on Saturday 20 July.
WEBSITE: blackwatersailingclub.org.uk
BRANCASTER STAITHE SAILING WEEK
6-10 August, Brancaster Staithe SC, Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk
OVERVIEW: Brancaster Staithe Sailing Week is a multi-class open regatta with daily races at sea for Senior fleets and in the harbour for Junior fleets. Briefing is on Monday 5 August and there are social events during the week. Registration is online via the website.
INSIDER TIP: Competitive and friendly racing for all the family.
WEBSITE: bssc.net
BURNHAM WEEK
24-31 August, Royal Burnham YC, Burnham on Crouch, Essex,
OVERVIEW: A friendly competitive regatta with a colourful mix of cruisers, day boats and dinghies. There is a class for everyone whether IRC, local handicap, new to racing or experienced. One design classes are a welcoming and friendly group. A variety of courses keeps interest piqued and the race committee listens to competitors ensuring that needs are met throughout. Family friendly with a full social calendar. A great way to round off your summer!
INSIDER TIP: Book your mooring early and ensure you enter when the early bird discount is valid. Follow on social media @burnham_week on Instagram or Facebook to keep up to date with news.
WEBSITE: burnhamweek.com
EAORA WEEK
6-12 July, East Anglian Offshore Racing Association
OVERVIEW: This year EAORA celebrates its 75th anniversary – and a memorable EAORA Week is planned to mark the occasion. It will start with the RORC East Coast Race from Harwich to Ostend (Belgium) on Saturday 6 July, followed by the Medway YC Cannonball Trophy race from Ostend to Breskens (Netherlands) the following day.
A series of shorter races from harbour to harbour within the Zeeland Delta will finish with a prizegiving party at Hellevoetsluis on Friday 12 July, leaving a clear weekend for the passage home. Traditionally some boats used the week as the delivery trip for a holiday in the Dutch inland waters.
Stopovers are yet to be finalised, but are expected to include Veere, Zierikzee, Sint Annaland, Willemstad and Hellevoetsluis – delightful historic towns with excellent facilities and plentiful restaurants. The silverware at the end of the week is very special too!
SPONSORS: DXB Pump & Power and Fox’s Chandlery
WEBSITE: eaora.org.uk
HORNING OPEN REGATTA WEEK
29 July-2 August, Horning SC, Norfolk Broads
OVERVIEW: The annual Open Regatta at Horning SC sees the River Bure at Horning become a hive of activity with racing from 9am-6pm every day outside the clubhouse. Races for Dinghies, Keelboats and River Cruisers – and great for spectators too!
INSIDER TIP: There are great socials taking place every night, the club invites you to come and get involved!
WEBSITE: horning-sailing.club
MERSEA WEEK
18-23 August, West Mersea YC & Dabchicks SC, Mersea Island, Essex
OVERVIEW: This event attracts scores of competitors and it is anticipated that this year, the 50th anniversary of this popular event, there will be even more. With a full and varied racing programme and a busy social scene, Mersea Week is all about racing on the beautiful Blackwater and enjoying fabulous social events ashore.
INSIDER TIP: Free moorings for visiting yachtsmen and women.
SPONSORS: Marinestore Chandlery, Adnams, Fenn Wright, Oakheart Property, Dolphin Sails, Allen Brothers, Mersea Homes, West Mersea Marine, West PM.
WEBSITE: merseaweek.org
NORTH WEST NORFOLK WEEK
20-27 July, North West Norfolk Sailing Association, at various locations along the north and west coast of Norfolk
OVERVIEW: Competitive but fun family regatta week with close racing at a different club every day including Snettisham Beach, Wells, Ouse Amateur, Blakeney and Overy Staithe. This year’s 74th anniversary regatta is for National 12, Supernova, Streaker, ILCA & Allcomers, with daily trophies, weekly trophies, lady and junior helm prizes. Camping available for great value, so if you usually only sail at your own club, why not take a chance, hitch up your boat and join one of the friendliest events in the sailing calendar! Great combination of daily racing and family beach holiday.
INSIDER TIP: It is extremely addictive! Most people having been once will return year after year.
WEBSITE: norfolkweek.co.uk
OULTON WEEK
18-23 August, Waveney and Oulton Broad YC, Suffolk
OVERVIEW: A premier week’s racing on The Broads! Six days of racing for dinghies, keelboats and river cruisers: fast and slow dinghy handicap fleets; ILCAs; Optimists; Norfolk Dinghies; Hansa 303; Mixed One Designs (Waveneys, Broads and Yare & Bures, Squibs); River Cruisers; Mixed Keelboat. Busy social programme includes Commodore’s Reception. Entry fees for helms aged 18 or under, £1 per race; everyone else £2 per race.
INSIDER TIP: Find accommodation afloat if possible and bring your children – they’ll love it!
WEBSITE: wobyc.com
OVERY STAITHE REGATTA
23-24 August, Overy Staithe SC, Burnham Overy Staithe, Norfolk
OVERVIEW: Sailing races with general handicap and some class racing for local boats: OKs, Sharpies, Europes, Mirror 10s and clinker-built boats.
WEBSITE: overystaithesc.org.uk
PYEFLEET WEEK
3-9 August, Brightlingsea SC, Brightlingsea, Essex
OVERVIEW: Kick off your summer holiday with a week of sailing on the East Coast. Pyefleet Week offers great racing for a wide range of classes from Optimists to Moths, plus a full social programme for all ages. With fantastic local shops, a historic lido, its own beach, a campsite on the doorstep and the beautiful Brightlingsea Harbour and River Colne as a backdrop, it’s a great place to holiday for all the family.
INSIDER TIP: Book accommodation early, pack your fancy dress, bucket and spade and prepare yourself for a good old fashioned regatta week!
WEBSITE: pyefleetweek.com
RAMSGATE WEEK
11-16 August, Royal Temple YC, Ramsgate, Kent
OVERVIEW: Ramsgate Week is widely recognised as the ‘friendly regatta’ and the alternative to Cowes. After a challenging day’s sailing between the North and South Forelands you’re a five-minute walk from your berth to the Royal Temple Yacht Club where you can relax whilst enjoying the renowned hospitality.
INSIDER TIP: The shifting sands can catch navigators out, pay attention to your depth gauge.
SPONSORS: Icom, Shepherd Neame, Kent Decking Supplies, Ramsgate Town Council, Page & Sons Ltd, Miles and Barr, North Sails, Riga Marine, Turner Jackson + Day Associates, Ramsgate Sailing School, Practical Car & Van Rental, Trews Workwear.
WEBSITE: ramsgateweek.com
ROYAL BURNHAM YC WHITSUN REGATTA
25-27 May, The Royal Burnham YC, Burnham on Crouch, Essex
OVERVIEW: A fun filled weekend with a broad selection of racing offered for handicap cruisers, keelboat classes, dinghies and multihulls, with both committee boat and club line starts. The racing is complemented by a full array of social events in the clubhouse both during the day and in the evenings.
WEBSITE: rbyc.uk
ROYAL HARWICH YACHT CLUB
10-11 August, Summer Regatta; 19-23 August 2024, Junior Race Week; Royal Harwich YC, Woolverstone, Suffolk
OVERVIEW: RHYC’s stunning clubhouse on the banks of the beautiful River Orwell estuary provides a fabulous location for both dinghy sailing and yacht cruising – or for relaxing on the lawn for a meal or drink with a view! Join the club for its Summer Regatta (Ajax, Dinghies, ILCAs) or for young sailors, the club’s popular annual Junior Race Week.
WEBSITE: royalharwichyachtclub.co.uk
THREE RIVERS RACE
1-2 June, Horning SC, Norfolk Broads
OVERVIEW: A true spectacle, the Three Rivers Race sees upwards of 100 boats leave Horning Sailing Club to participate in the tough 50-mile endurance race, which will see competitors sail through the night, across the Broads, and lowering their masts under three bridges.
INSIDER TIP: Great spectator points include the Medieval Potter Heigham Bridge and Acle Bridge, where exciting mast lowering/raising can be seen.
SPONSOR: Yachtmaster Insurance
WEBSITE: 3rr.uk and horning-sailing.club
WHITSTABLE WEEK
31 July-4 August, Whitstable YC, Whitstable, Kent
OVERVIEW: Whitstable Week is a summer all-classes regatta for all ages and abilities. Whitstable is a great place to sail offering relatively sheltered sea sailing with easy beach launching and committee boat starts off the club. WYC is situated both on the beach and in the centre of town which has a huge choice of shops, pubs and restaurants. The ‘week’ now runs from Wednesday to Sunday which means fewer days holiday to take part in a full five days of racing, two races per day. There are social events every evening culminating with Commodore’s Cocktails and a Summer Ball.
INSIDER TIP: Whitstable Week gives visiting sailors the opportunity to take advantage of a fabulous holiday town, great sailing and amazing socials – it’s not to be missed!
SPONSOR: Holidaycottages.co.uk
WEBSITE: wyc.org.uk/on-the-water/Whitstable_Week
WROXHAM WEEK
21-28 July, Norfolk Broads YC, Wroxham, Norfolk
OVERVIEW: Fabulous week full of competitive racing and lively socials. Suitable for all ages and abilities with something for everyone during this exciting week. There is a full racing programme throughout to enjoy, as well as social events including fun quizzes, children’s entertainment, rowing races, duck races and an End of Regatta Party. Members and visitor’s welcome!
INSIDER TIP: Prebook your races and social events online before the week begins. Call the office on 01603 782808 for more information or help with booking.
WEBSITE: nbyc.co.uk
SOUTH – Races and Regattas
BOURNE END WEEK
24-27 May, Upper Thames SC, Bourne End, Bucks
OVERVIEW: UTSC offers river racing at its best, on the widest stretch of the non-tidal Thames. Featuring the Thames A Rater National Championships, Merlin Rocket River Championships, International OK River Championships, class racing for Wayfarers, plus Fast Handicap. Camping is just behind the clubhouse, quality catering every evening, with the Saturday supper included in the sailing entry.
INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss the famous sunset cocktail party, this year on Sunday, followed by a tasty buffet dinner and music from a lively band that’ll fill the dance floor!
WEBSITE: utsc.org.uk
BRITISH CLASSIC WEEK
15-19 July, British Classic Yacht Club, Cowes Yacht Haven/Royal Yacht Squadron, Isle of Wight
OVERVIEW: A new five-day format for 2024 will allow more time for owners and crew to set up and pack down before and after the regatta. Racing will again be overseen by the Royal Yacht Squadron, with new additions to deliver competitive fun racing for all the fleet, including an Around the Island Race (with optional inshore race for smaller yachts), a Forts Race, and a pursuit race. Camaraderie and dockside fun ashore, including a Pontoon Party. For owners keen for extra racing, British Classic Week has also teamed up with the Taittinger Regatta at the Royal Solent YC (12-14 July) to put on a feeder race between the two regattas.
SPONSORS: Lead sponsors Spirit Yachts, Classic Marine, One Sails, David Murrin Global Forecaster, Suffolk Yacht Harbour.
WEBSITE: britishclassicweek.co.uk
CHICHESTER HARBOUR RACE WEEK
19-23 August, organised by Chichester Harbour Federation at Hayling Island SC, Hampshire
Looking for more Classic races and regattas? Check out our partner Classic Boat Magazine’s Classic Races and Regattas Guide 2024
OVERVIEW: Family Regatta week with class starts for Fireball, Flying Fifteen, Finn, 29er, RS200, 2000, RS Aero 7, RS Aero 5, Solo, RS Feva, Optimist & RS Elites. Combined class starts for RS Aero 6 & Byte & Europe, ILCA 6 & 4, RS Tera Pro & Tera Sport, Hadron H2 & D Zero. Handicap fleets: Fast PY 1034 & below, Fast Asymmetric PY 938 & below, Slow Asymmetric PY 939-1006 , Medium PY 1035-1220. Entry in 2023 was 399.
INSIDER TIP: Early bird entry fees available from 1 May until 30 June. Four race areas within Chichester Harbour with the Elites just past Harbour entrance.
SPONSORS: Event sponsor Bentley Walker, supplemented by Chichester Harbour Gin, Raymarine and Optimum Timers.
WEBSITE: chichesterharbourraceweek.sailevent.net
COWES SPRING CLASSICS
17-19 May, Cowes Corinthian YC/Shepards Marina, Cowes, Isle of Wight
OVERVIEW: Cowes Spring Classics is a regatta for classic yachts designed before 1970, including: Cruisers & Cruiser Racers, Affordable Classic Cruisers around 25ft, Gaff Rigged Yachts & Pilot Cutters, Day Boats & Raters, Classic Metre Yachts plus Modern Spirit of Tradition Yachts. Racing organised by Cowes Corinthian YC. Non-racing yachts and motorboats also welcome.
SPONSORS: Classic Marine, West System, British Classic Yacht Club, Simon Winter Marine, Mermaid Gin, Classic Boat.
WEBSITE: cowesspringclassics.com
Looking for more Classic races and regattas? Check out our partner Classic Boat Magazine’s Classic Races and Regattas Guide 2024
COWES WEEK
27 July-2 August, Cowes Week Ltd / Cowes, Isle of Wight
OVERVIEW: Cowes Week is one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events and is a key highlight of the British sporting summer. The regatta sees up to 600 boats in up to 40 different classes take part in seven days of world-class racing. To add to the on-the-water action, the lively après-sail atmosphere at Cowes Week means there are plenty of social and exciting onshore activities for sailors and the spectators who visit Cowes each year.
INSIDER TIP: Be part of the action, enter online www.cowesweek.co.uk or book a spot on a spectator boat.
SPONSORS: Musto, Mount Gay, Red Funnel, Cowes Yacht Haven, Seahorse Magazine, Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting; Official Charities: Tall Ships Youth Trust & RNLI.
WEBSITE: cowesweek.co.uk
MUDEFORD WEEK
4-8 August, Mudeford SC, Christchurch, Dorset
OVERVIEW: Family racing at a safe, sheltered location in Christchurch Harbour: a friendly club event which attracts novice as well as expert sailors. Socials including a meal at The Beach Hut, fish and chips on the barge and prizegiving. Fun events to include paddleboarding, kayaks and a treasure hunt around the harbour.
INSIDER TIP: Have a sail around before racing starts to locate the shallows.
WEBSITE: mudefordsc.org
POOLE WEEK
25-30 August, Parkstone YC, Poole, Dorset
OVERVIEW: Bournemouth Digital Poole Week offers six afternoons of racing in the beautiful waters of Poole Harbour for dinghies and small keelboats, typically attracting over 150 entries. Class starts for fleets including ILCA 6s and 7s, Flying Fifteens, Darts, Wayfarers, RS200s and XODs, and handicap too. Competitive and family-friendly. On-the-water coaching for all fleets, great après-sail socials, daily prize-givings and much more.
INSIDER TIP: Study the course charts! And/or ask a native. Some courses use the full expanse of Poole Harbour, so it’s useful to know where you’re going.
SPONSORS: Bournemouth Digital, Badger Beers
WEBSITE: PooleWeek.org
SOUTH WEST – Races and Regattas
BABBACOMBE REGATTA
22-23 June, Babbacombe Corinthian SC, St Marychurch, Torquay, Devon.
OVERVIEW: The 197th Babbacombe dinghy regatta offers two days of racing in beautiful Babbacombe Bay. Junior and novice sailors especially welcome to come along and enjoy some fun racing. The Commodore invites all regatta sailors and their guests to a reception on the Saturday night.
WEBSITE: babbacombe-sc.com
CAMEL WEEK
9-14 August, Rock Sailing and Waterski Club, Rock, North Cornwall
OVERVIEW: An open regatta for dinghies and catamarans combining handicap and pursuit races in the beautiful Camel Estuary or Padstow Bay, complete with sandy beaches and breeze. There is also the John Bray Cornish Holidays Junior Camel Week, an event aimed at the under 18s, 25-31 July.
INSIDER TIP: The format combines well with a family Cornish holiday
SPONSORS: Sharp’s Brewery
WEBSITE: rswsc.co.uk
DARTMOUTH ROYAL REGATTA SAILING WEEK
24-31 August, Royal Dart YC, Kingswear, Dartmouth, Devon
OVERVIEW: Dartmouth Royal Regatta is a family orientated regatta that offers competitive racing in Start Bay and the River Dart, with a wide range of activities for all the family, including a funfair and firework display on the Friday evening. The dinghy regattas start the week’s racing with the Juniors at RDYC 24-26 August and Moore Kingston Smith Financial Dinghies at Dittisham 24-27 August. The yacht regatta follows with the passage race from Brixham to Dartmouth on Tuesday 27 August, and racing in Start Bay 28-31 August. There will be classes for IRC and SWYTCF rated yachts, one design fleets, classics, dayboats and gaffers depending on the number of entries. There are White Sail Family Fun events on Friday & Saturday 30-31 August. NB: The Regatta is a week later this year.
INSIDER TIP: Dartmouth Royal Regatta is very popular with visiting yachts so make sure you book your accommodation early. Details available on the website.
SPONSORS: Salcombe Gin, Moore Kingston Smith, Henri Lloyd, Paradigm Norton, Savills, Raymarine, Ancasta, Rockfish, Twisted Marine.
WEBSITE: dartmouthsailingweek.com
FALMOUTH CLASSICS
14-16 June, Port of Falmouth, Cornwall
OVERVIEW: One of the largest UK Classic events held in the delightful setting of the River Fal and Falmouth Bay. Three races for fourteen classes, two on the water parades, receptions, a maritime village and the International Falmouth Shanty Festival with over 70 groups. One of three events that qualify for the West Country Classics Series sponsored by Hattiers Rum.
SPONSORS: Partner Sponsors: Falmouth Harbour Commissioners and Falmouth Haven, Teamac, Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, Classic Boat, West Briton, plus major and event partners.
WEBSITE: falmouthclassics.org.uk
Looking for more Classic races and regattas? Check out our partner Classic Boat Magazine’s Classic Races and Regattas Guide 2024
FALMOUTH SAILING WEEK
11-17 August, Falmouth, Cornwall.
OVERVIEW: Seven days of varied racing for over 20 classes ranging from IRC yachts to dinghies. Starting with a skippers’ briefing at the Royal Cornwall YC on Saturday 10 August. The regatta is hosted by six clubs starting with Helford River SC (11th) then visiting Mylor YC (12th), Restronguet SC (13th), Royal Cornwall YC (15th), St Mawes SC (16th) and Flushing SC (17th) for the final regatta and overall prizegiving. Multi class options for entry including classes for dinghies. Racing in the harbour, Carrick Roads or Falmouth Bay. Daily entries, a three-day series and seven-day entry all possible. The Port of Falmouth Sailing Association has held entry fees at 2023 prices. All entrants under 18 are FREE this year!
INSIDER TIP: Register early for the best entry fees. There’s a fantastic social scene shoreside with music events in Falmouth throughout the regatta week.
SPONSORS: Mylor Yacht Harbour, Hine Downing Solicitors, Mainbrace Rum, Ancasta International Boat Sales and The Flip Flop Shop; Super Yacht Services Falmouth, Falmouth Town Council, and South-West Bars and Events. New sponsors for FSW24 are Velos Insurance Group, Evelyn Partners and River Boatyard. Additional class prize sponsors are Indidog Eatery, The St Mawes Scent Room and The Mariners Supply Company
WEBSITE: falmouthweek.co.uk/sailing-week
FOWEY ROYAL SAILING REGATTA
18-24 August, Fowey Sailing Committee: Royal Fowey YC & Fowey Gallants SC, South Cornwall
OVERVIEW: Fowey Regatta and Carnival is one of the UK’s best known sailing events with a long history, offering a full programme of racing for Troys, Fowey Rivers, Cruisers, Falmouth Working Boats and a handicap dinghy fleet. There are also many traditional land-based events, including the carnival procession, fireworks, crab-catching and harbour swim and live music.
INSIDER TIP: After racing gather at Royal Fowey YC or Fowey Gallants SC for great food and a good chat about the day’s events before prize-giving!
WEBSITE: foweyregatta.co.uk
NORTH DEVON YACHT CLUB OPEN WEEK
10-17 August, North Devon YC, Instow, Bideford, North Devon
OVERVIEW: Sailing and racing for all with racing for dinghies (including Blaze and ILCA sub fleets), fast cats, Dart 15s and gaffers: pursuits, round-the-bay, cup races, regatta series and more! Fabulous sailing area with big breeze, fun waves and tides. Great value week at just £30 for adults, £20 cadets. INSIDER TIP: Family-friendly holiday location with social activities throughout.
WEBSITE: ndyc.org/sailing/open-week-2024
PASAB (Penzance Around Scilly and Back)
19-22 July 2024, Penzance SC, West Cornwall
OVERVIEW: Leg 1 is an overnight race from Penzance to St Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, starting at 19.00 Friday 19 July; Leg 2 is a race around the islands starting on the Sunday at 09.30; Leg 3 starts from St Mary’s on Monday 22 July at 09.30 and races back to Penzance.
INSIDER TIP: Conditions can be challenging and exciting. The Islands are unique and stunning and a great experience for all.
WEBSITE: pzsc.org.uk/pasab
PLYMOUTH RACE WEEK
11-14 July, Royal Western Yacht Club of England, Queen Anne’s Battery Plymouth
OVERVIEW: There will be three great events happening simultaneously during this four-day regatta, taking place over three race courses in Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. Also known as ‘The Yachtsman’s Regatta’, the event incorporates the IRC Southwest Championships, SW YTC Championships and J24 National Championships, alongside a full entertainment package, including a roast, live music, BBQ and crew party.
INSIDER TIP: The Breakwater provides excellent shelter against big seas and coupled with the natural amphitheatre of Plymouth Sound, offers fantastic racing conditions and spectator vantage points in order to watch the action close up!
WEBSITE: rwyc.org/club-racing/plymouthraceweek
PORT OF PLYMOUTH SAILING ASSOCIATION DINGHY REGATTA
8-9 June, hosted by PPSA at The Mount Batten Sailing Centre, Plymouth
OVERVIEW: Fleets ranging from rookies and beginners to asymmetric classes, also including the Solo Western Series Championships, GP14 Southern Area Championships, Phantom and OK open meetings. An excellent social venue with Saturday barbecue and some of the best sailing waters in the UK. Any class with more than six entries can have their own results and there is a team entry as well.
INSIDER TIP: The tidal flows in Plymouth are affected by the two major rivers running into the Sound – look at tidal flow charts to see where there are back eddies.
SPONSORS: Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre, Port of Plymouth, Freshwave, Dinghy Shack, Plymouth Youth Sailing, Port of Plymouth Sailing Association.
WEBSITE: dinghy-regatta.ppsa.org.uk
SALCOMBE YACHT CLUB REGATTA
11-16 August, Salcombe YC, Salcombe, Devon
OVERVIEW: SYC looks forward to welcoming members and visitors alike to its 2024 regatta, once again to be sponsored by Salcombe Gin. The club hopes that the thought of summer sailing, fantastic racing, its SYC friendly welcome, golden beaches, the superbly located Yacht Club Terrace high above the race course with exceptional viewing of the racing, and the fun ‘Après Sail’ social life, will all encourage you to take part in the SYC Salcombe Gin Regatta 2024!
SPONSOR: Salcombe Gin
INSIDER TIP: The club encourages all dinghy sailors to base themselves on Mill Bay Beach for the week and will offer a trolley transfer service at the beginning and end of the week. For more info and local accommodation visit the website.
WEBSITE: https://www.salcombeyc.org.uk/
TORBAY DINGHY REGATTA
27-28 July, Royal Torbay YC, Torquay, Devon
OVERVIEW: Two-day regatta with racing for PY dinghies (asymmetric and non-asymmetric) and junior classes in stunning Tor Bay on the English Riviera. Incorporating the Albacore Class Southern Area Championships. Fast and easy access to the sailing waters, lots of accommodation within easy walking distance and great Saturday night social.
INSIDER TIP: Enquiries from class associations are welcome.
WEBSITE: rtyc.org/event/torbay-dinghy-regatta-2024
TORBAY ROYAL REGATTA
24-26 August, Royal Torbay YC, Torquay, Devon
OVERVIEW: Racing over three days for IRC, Cruiser Classes, J/24s and Sportsboats. Competitors can expect fun and competitive racing on the fine sailing waters of Tor Bay. Free berthing is included in the entry fees and from the sheltered harbour there is quick and easy access to the race areas. The town offers an enviable range of accommodation, restaurants, bars and car parks all within walking distance of the club and harbour. Competitors and their families can be sure of a very warm welcome and will enjoy a friendly atmosphere, cordial hospitality and great shoreside entertainment.
INSIDER TIP: The English Riviera is a great place to be during August! NOR on the website and further information available from events@rtyc.org
WEBSITE: rtyc.org/event/torbay-royal-regatta
WALES – Races and Regattas
ABERSOCH DINGHY WEEK
21-26 July, South Caernarvonshire YC, Abersoch, North Wales
OVERVIEW: Racing for all classes of asymmetric, doublehanded and singlehanded dinghies in Cardigan Bay’s fabulous waters. Continuing on with the new format started in 2022: committee boat starts with two shorter races back-to-back per day and varied courses, with the traditional starts from the club line as well, being wind dependent. Coached regatta fleet for the novice sailor/new racer. Full social programme.
INSIDER TIP: Abersoch’s golden sandy beaches and the spectacular waters of Cardigan Bay allow SCYC to offer a fabulous week of competitive dinghy racing.
SPONSOR: Abersoch Boatyard
WEBSITE: scyc.co.uk/event/dinghy-week
ABERSOCH KEELBOAT WEEK
19-23 August, South Caernarvonshire YC, Abersoch, North Wales
OVERVIEW: SCYC is delighted to be organising and hosting AKW again, renowned for 40 years as a fun regatta with a serious edge. Fleets: Small Keelboats; IRC1; IRC2; White Sails (Non-Spinnaker) (split into two fleets); Sports Boats (new fleet). YTC scoring for Small Keelboats and White Sails. IRC classes: committee boat starts. Others: club or committee boat starts, using club marks.
INSIDER TIP: A relaxed atmosphere off the water complements the competition on it. Practice day on Sunday 18 August.
SPONSORS: One Sails (South)
WEBSITE: scyc.co.uk/event/keelboat-week
CARDIGAN BAY REGATTA
9-11 August, New Quay YC, Ceredigion, West Wales
OVERVIEW: Three-day annual event with sailing races for all classes plus swimming races and fun events for children and families, and sandcastle building competitions on the first day. New Quay is one of the oldest regattas in the UK, first being held in 1829 – the 2024 regatta will be the 148th Cardigan Bay Regatta!
WEBSITE: cardiganbayregatta.co.uk
MENAI STRAIT REGATTAS
5-17 August, Royal Anglesey YC/Royal Welsh YC, North Wales
OVERVIEW: The Menai Strait Regattas is one of the oldest classic boat regattas in Wales if not in the UK. The Menai Strait Regattas have used the same venues since the early 1800s and are pleased to have clubs locally and also north-west clubs mainly from the Merseyside/Wirral area competing.
INSIDER TIP: There is no charge to watch the racing at any of the clubs along the Menai Strait.
WEBSITE: menaistraitregattas.org.uk
SCOTLAND – Races and Regattas
FINDHORN WEEK
22-26 July, Royal Findhorn YC, Findhorn, Moray, NE Scotland
OVERVIEW: A family dinghy week for both Handicap and Class (depending on number of boats) racing. There is also a separate Novice event for children. All taking place in Findhorn Bay. There is an extensive social programme alongside the sailing which makes this a great holiday for the whole family.
INSIDER TIP: Get your accommodation in Findhorn booked early.
SPONSOR: Pinnell & Bax
WEBSITE: rfyc.co.uk/sailing/events
SCOTTISH SERIES
24-27 May, Clyde Cruising Club, Tarbert, Loch Fyne, West Scotland
OVERVIEW: Three fleets: IRC, One Design and CYCA. IRC and OD classes will race on courses set using remote controlled SmartMarks. Another innovation for 2024 is the inclusion of an ‘Introductory Class’ to support first-time regatta skippers and crew. CYCA courses will be set using pre-laid static marks positioned strategically to allow a variety of racing formats. IRC and CYCA boats will sail the Sunday Inch Passage Race.
INSIDER TIP: A full social programme will be run over the four days at Tarbert in the marquee at the marina.
SPONSORS: Kylemark, Holland House & CGL Facades
WEBSITE: scottishseries.co.uk
WEST HIGHLAND YACHTING WEEK
27 July-2 August, Craobh/Oban/Tobermory
OVERVIEW: This is one of the leading international yachting events, in stunning surroundings, with a winning combination of round the buoys and passage racing, supported by an excellent social programme. West Highland Yachting Week also allows competitors to enter for individual races or the passage race series if they do not want to take part in the whole week.
INSIDER TIP: The passage race series is a great way to try out the event for the first time or with a young family.
SPONSORS: Tunnocks, The Majestic Line, Lochnell Boatyard
WEBSITE: whyw.co.uk
IRELAND– Races and Regattas
CORK WEEK
15-19 July, Royal Cork YC, Crosshaven, Co. Cork
OVERVIEW: The biennial Volvo Cork Week regatta running since 1978 is shaping up to be another fantastic iteration of this long-standing event. The secret of the event’s success cannot be attributed to any single aspect of its organisation but has been built on the combination of friendly competition, diverse racing, enthusiastic volunteers, and the good humour of thousands of visitors.
INSIDER TIP: Get there early to garner some local knowledge and enjoy the après sail!
SPONSORS: Volvo, Musto, Cork County Council, Port of Cork, Heineken.
WEBSITE: corkweek.ie
CHANNEL ISLANDS – Races and Regattas
JERSEY REGATTA
13-15 September, Royal Channel Islands YC, St Helier YC and St Catherine’s SC, Jersey
OVERVIEW: The Carey Olsen Jersey Regatta provides three days of fun and competitive racing coupled with a full ‘après racing’ social programme alongside the island’s vibrant nightlife. As ever the 26th edition will offer a warm welcome to all, locals and visitors alike, with up to two races on Friday afternoon and three back-to-back races on both Saturday and Sunday: IRC cruiser/racer, sportsboat and Quarter Ton classes; RYA YTC cruiser/racer classes; dayboat, dinghy and sport catamaran classes. Included in the regatta programme is the ever-hotly contested GBR IRC Channel Islands Championship, open to all local and visiting IRC boats.
INSIDER TIP: ‘Early bird’ discounts until 23 August; book early for ferries and accommodation (jersey.com) as it is very busy in September; ship chandlers and refuelling stations are located at St Helier Harbour and St Aubin’s Harbour.
SPONSOR: Offshore law firm Carey Olsen; co-sponsor Ports of Jersey – Jersey Marinas – complementary berthing.
WEBSITE: jerseyregatta.com
Whether your right up north, gearing up for Findhorn Week, searching for races and regattas in wales, or heading into the solent for Cowes Week, our races and regattas guide and calendar has you covered.
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