"It's all about getting into that Grand Final" - Emirates GBR Driver Dylan Fletcher after Race Day 1

 

Emirates GBR Driver Dylan Fletcher said the opening day of the Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix was not the team's "finest performance", but added the crew was "still focused on the main job of getting into that Grand Final".

The Brits ended the first day of racing in 10th position, after placing 9th, 11th, 9th and 4th in the four fleet races on Saturday.

In order to make the $2m, three-boat, winner-takes-all Grand Final race, Emirates GBR needs to be top three on the overall season leaderboard, and even with a current 10th position on the Abu Dhabi event leaderboard, the team would still be top of the table for the overall season. The blow of a 10th place finish on Race Day 1 was softened for Emirates GBR as the three other teams at the top of the season leaderboard, Spain, New Zealand and Australia, also had less than stellar performances in the light conditions. Spain ended day one in 12th, while Australia are in 11th and New Zealand 8th.

Fletcher said: "It wasn't our finest day of the season, but the team are in good spirits and we are still focused on the main job of getting into that Grand Final. I guess there's a bit more luck involved in light winds and we saw the top four teams not quite putting enough risk into it because they don't want to have any accidents or anything that could affect the season points, and the teams who took a bit more risk were having the best starts."

The final event of the season resumes today with two more fleet races scheduled, after which an event winner will be crowned and season points tallied, before the top three teams then progress to the winner-takes-all, $2m Grand Final. UK viewers can watch the racing live on TNT Sports 2 from 10:00 GMT.

Southampton marina named Marina of the Year

 

Ocean Village Marina has been named Marina of the Year at the 2025 British Yachting Awards.

Located in Southampton, the marina scooped the title for the second time in three years after winning in 2023.

The award, voted for by readers of Sailing Today with Yachts and Yachting, is decided by public vote.

Lauren Bright, marina manager at Ocean Village, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award.

"Ocean Village is a special place to work, and this recognition reflects the effort our whole team puts in every day.

"It’s a wonderful endorsement from the boating community, and we are hugely grateful for the support we receive from our berth holders and visitors."

Sam Jefferson, editor of Sailing Today with Yachts and Yachting, said: "The British Yachting Awards are a 100 per cent public vote, so any win is simply down to what the yachting public feels merits voting for.

Chartering a Yacht in Oban and Exploring the West Coast of Scotland

 

Imagine cruising around the sea in your private yacht charter, catching mesmerizing sunsets over the Isle of Mull, or basking in the serene beauty of the Hebrides islands. With a boat rental in Oban, these become tangible realities rather than distant dreams. The surreal panoramas, access to remote isles, and the ability to explore at your own pace, make the yacht charter in Oban an unparalleled experience. Coupled with the rich maritime heritage of the town and the welcoming locals who embrace the sailing culture, Oban is undeniably a hidden gem for sailing enthusiasts.

Boat rental in Oban unveils a variety of sailing spots and routes. Skirting around Kerrera, heading towards the Isle of Mull up to the bewitching Fingal's Cave, is a favorite route among sailors. Destinations around Oban like Tobermory, Coll, and Tiree are also cherishing experiences when you rent a boat in Oban. More adventurous sailors can voyage out towards the Small Isles or even the Outer Hebrides, home to some of the most secluded and beautiful bays that Scotland has to offer. Jura, Skye, and Islay are other hotspots worth visiting with an Oban base.

The ideal time to charter a yacht in Oban is during the summer months, from May to September. This is when the town's lively festivals, such as the Oban Live music event and the Highland Games, occur. The off-peak season also has its own charm, with less bustling crowds, making it perfect for a peaceful sailing getaway. The changing colors of the scenery during fall present an unforgettable sight, while winter sailing is for the adventurers at heart, with mystifying landscapes engulfed in a serene quietude.

The weather in Oban fluctuates with a mild maritime climate. Summers are relatively warm, while the winters are cooler. Sailors should note that even during summer, Scotland can experience heavy rains. As for the sailing conditions, the constant winds blowing from the southwest make sailing somewhat predictable with moderate currents, making Oban a relatively safe sailing destination.

Relishing the local culture and history of Oban is best through interaction with the warm local communities. A visit to the Oban Distillery or the historical castles, such as Dunstaffnage and Kisimul, provides a glimpse into her past. Try a plateful of fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants to appreciate the deeply ingrained fishing culture. Perhaps, a day off sailing to participate in local festivals or live music events could also be a delightful way of immersing in the local culture.

There are several top-tier marinas in Oban offering a range of facilities. Oban Marina & Yacht Services Ltd is exceptionally well-furbished, providing perfect anchorage for boats of various sizes. Dunstaffnage Marina, located just a few miles out of town, is a safe and peaceful mooring spot. Other noteworthy marinas include Kerrera Marina and Ardfern Yacht Centre.

If you're new to sailing, chartering a yacht with a skipper in Oban can have significant advantages. Skippers are experienced sailors who are well-versed with local sailing conditions. Additionally, having a local skipper can offer a richer experience, bringing intimate knowledge about hidden gems. However, seasoned sailors may enjoy the thrill of steering their own course with bareboat yacht charters.

Chartering a yacht with a dedicated crew in Oban certainly provides a luxurious experience. Crewed yachts are typically well-equipped and have team members to fulfill your personalized requests, letting you enjoy an ultimate vacation. However, if you prefer a more hands-on, adventurous trip, a bareboat rental might be a suitable choice.

In Oban, to charter a yacht without a skipper, regulated yacht types and sizes will require a valid and accepted boating license. Depending on the size and type of the yacht, a Day Skipper Practical Certificate, a Coastal Skipper, or a higher licensing might be required.

When packing for your yacht charter in Oban, comfort and functionality should be your guiding factors. Water-resistant clothing and a good sailing jacket are essential. Don’t forget your sunglasses, sun hats, and sunblock. Bring along your entertainment options like music and board games for those relaxed evenings. Finally, pack a sense of adventure along with your safety gear and get ready to explore the enchanting Oban.

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You.

WITH 12,000 RENTAL YACHTS ACROSS 60 COUNTRIES WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

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West Country Classic Series 2025 Results

 

Classic yacht skippers and crews, whose race achievements had scored points in The West Country Classic Series, first established in 2021, gathered at Saltash Sailing Club in November for the annual prize-giving sponsored by Hattiers Rum. Two traditionally built, pre 1940s yachts, topped the prize list.

The winner this year was "Ayesha" a 1922 gaff cutter built at the Aldous yard in Brightlingsea, Essex, for the yard's owner. Currently owned by Richard Bond, she gained two first places in class at Fowey and the Looe Lugger Classics and a second at Falmouth.

In second place was "Mat Ali", built to a Harrison Butler design in Malaysia in 1935 and gaining points at Dartmouth, Falmouth and Fowey. In third place was "Sarabande of Dart", a Nicholson 43, and in fourth place "L Aquarelle", a Contessa 32.

There was a further increase in the number of vessels gaining points in two or more races at the four classic events - Dartmouth, Falmouth, Fowey and Looe Lugger Classics. For the first time four vessels scored points in races in three events.

The addition of Looe Lugger Classics for the first time in 2025 provided two luggers with sufficient points to feature. Barnabas, a St Ives lugger built in 1881 and the oldest vessel to score points in the series so far, was placed ninth and Ocean Pearl, a 1933 Fifie based at Chichester, and the furthest travelled, was placed twelfth.

The four winners were presented with inscribed trophies and a bottle of Hattiers Rum by Philip Everett-Lyons. The other twelve vessels received inscribed glassware as a memento of their participation.

Cowes Week names official charity for its 200th anniversary year

 

A charity helping young people rebuild their lives after cancer has been named as the official charity for a major Isle of Wight sailing event.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust will be at the heart of the 2026 Cowes Week regatta for the event’s 200th anniversary.

Founded in 2003 by Dame Ellen MacArthur, the charity supports young people aged eight to 24, using sailing and outdoor adventure to inspire young people living through and beyond cancer to believe in a brighter future.

Frank Fletcher, chief executive of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, said: "It's a wonderful thing to be Cowes Week's official charity for 2026, especially as it celebrates its 200th year, and it will make a huge difference.

"Young people need somewhere to turn after a traumatic diagnosis, somewhere they feel they belong, and where they are reminded of what they can still achieve.

"At the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, sailing and the outdoors give young people the freedom and sense of possibility they are looking for.

"They start to believe in themselves again and look forward to what's next in life.

Allen and CB Cover Store Midland Area Solo Championship 2025 at Northampton Sailing Club

 

The planets have aligned in the favour of the Midland Championship which, having been postponed earlier in the season, has now been bequeathed the last big Solo regatta of 2025 and so the focus will very much be on who can claim this hotly contested title and with it, bar bragging rites, kudos and most importantly, space in the next Solo Magnificent publication to share with the membership how they did it.

Northampton Sailing Club have stepped in to host the event and I understand teams of volunteers have been forming a human chain with buckets in hand to top up Pitsford, I do hope the water source is not from the reservoir itself or they may be there sometime.

Anyone who has raced at Northampton will testify that it can be a tricky venue, the 413 hectares of water can get surprisingly narrow at some points and it's orientation from east to west certainly favours a wind direction from either of those two quadrants, fortunately the current forecast, albeit a little premature is predicting 12-22mph from the west. From memory the clubhouse is to the right so it should make for a short sail to the race area and a long beat to mark 1.

There are already just under twenty pre-entries and these include CB Coverstore CEO and former Inland Champion Chris Brown who has been keeping his finely honed body in shape by participating in the Sailjuice Series. Chris has utilised the Winder 1/Superspars M2/North F4 this year and is convinced the hull shape has much to offer the more portly figure and this final regatta may determine whether he sticks with it or not.

Meanwhile, Jasper Barnham, who has come in to a rich vein of form with race wins at the Ferry Marina Inlands and EOS, subsequently winning that title and a holiday on the Norfolk Broads courtesy of the sponsor Chris Bunn will be favourite (based on current entry list and subject to change by about five places if Davenport, Walters, Davis et al turn up).

Among the other pre-entered, Steven Dickinson showed strong boat handling skills at the Inlands and Jamie Cuxson has been knocking on the door for a podium finish all season.

I would expect Midland rep Jonathan Swain to feature along with Andrew Wilde and Mike Sims, if these guys turn up then my camera and the Solo Event WhatsApp community is in for a treat. You cannot put a cigarette paper between the likes of Bunn, Brown, Honnor and Davies and with local sailors Graham Wilson and Peter Warne keeping the fleet honest, it should be tight competition from front to back...Oh yes, and it is friendly too.

Enter at  :- webcollect.org.uk/nsc/event/solo-open-meeting-11-10-2025

If you are going then please enter online asap, the Solo media team will be covering the event via WhatsApp and the Solo Facebook page, you can join the reporting WhatsApp and catch up later via the NSCA Solo page.

BUSA London Six Pack 2025 at Welsh Harp Sailing Club

 

Saturday saw an action-packed start to the London Six Pack, with ran 44 out of 55 races completed as part of the round robin. Despite some difficulties with the start boat dragging its anchor we were able to get under way smoothly and efficiently.

Saturday concluded with BPS (Bath University) top of the ranking after narrowly defeating DW Deathsquad (Castaways) in their head-to-head, with both teams finishing on an impressive 7/8 wins.

Sunday kicked off under brighter skies and steadier breeze. The 11 teams were split into Gold and Silver leagues, and 29 races followed. The gusts picked up throughout the day into a steady 20 knots, far exceeding the forecasted 12 knots baseline. DW Deathsquad finished first in gold league after going undefeated in all five races. Bath Bubbles finished first in silver, winning 5/6 races, and faced off Solent Fuzz in the repechage.

Solent Fuzz came out on top the repechage and continued their winning stead against DW Deathsquad in the first semi-final, winning 2-0. Bristol White battled Imperial White in the second semi-final, with the former securing 2-0. In the petit final, DW Deathsquad bounced back with a 2-0 win over Imperial White, securing third place.

The grand final saw Solent Fuzz edge out Bristol White, winning London Six Pack 2-1. Thank you everyone who came for a brilliant weekend!

Final standings:

1st: Solent Fuzz

2nd: Bristol White

3rd: DW Deathsquad

Poole Regatta 2026 Builds Momentum Six Months Out

 

Only six months remain until racing begins at Poole Regatta and the IRC European Championship 2026 on the English south coast.

The event runs from 23–25 May, with an additional day on 22 May for IRC European Championship competitors.

Organisers from Poole’s combined yacht clubs report strong early interest. More than 100 owners across multiple classes have asked to be notified when entries open later this year.

The regatta has been held every two years since 2000. Its mix of competitive racing across five courses and popular post-race socials has helped drive steady growth.

Classes already signalling participation include IRC, TP52, Performance40, Cape31, Performance30, VPRS, J70, J24, Impala, Sonata, Contessa 32, HP30, Quarter Ton, Mini Ton, RS21, Classics, Folkboat, Sigma 33 and 38, Beneteau 40.7, Flying Fifteen, 2.4mR, Shrimper, XOD and the non-spinnaker Gentlemen’s Class.

Alongside the IRC European Championship, the programme includes the IRC Southern Area Championship, J80 National Championship, J24 Southern Championship, Sonata Southern Championship, Impala Southern Championship, the 2.4m Tidal National Championship and the Mini Ton Cup.

Five racecourses will be set in Poole Bay and inside the harbour, framed by the Purbeck Hills and the beaches of Sandbanks and Bournemouth. Organisers say this layout will “deliver tight and competitive racing across all fleets”.

Dragon class Marblehead Trophy 2025

 

The Royal racing yacht Bluebottle GBR192 has written a major new chapter in international Dragon Class history by winning the legendary Marblehead Trophy. This is the first time Great Britain has ever claimed the Marblehead, and the first time the event will be hosted in England on behalf of a winning British team and club.

Skippered by Graham Bailey, with Bluebottle crew Julia Bailey, Will Bedford and Killian Boag, after five close races the team delivered a superb performance against a top international fleet to secure one of the most coveted trophies in sailing.

As a result of this landmark victory, the next Marblehead regatta will be hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes. Graham commented on the remarkable victory: "It was a truly epic last day - at one point we talked about heading for the harbour as a 30 knot gust blew through. No way would we put Bluebottle downwind in that but fortunately that was the only tricky moment, and she coped like a trooper with everything else that was thrown at her. Can't believe we've won the Marblehead!"

The Marblehead Trophy is a prestigious international sailing prize linked to the Dragon class. Established in 1929 by the residents of Marblehead in Massachusetts, it commemorated the town's 300th anniversary and celebrated its heritage as a renowned centre of sailing.

Royal Yacht Bluebottle stands among the most renowned Dragons in the world. Originally crafted as a Royal racing yacht, Bluebottle has enjoyed a celebrated competitive legacy that spans several decades. In 2019, under the stewardship of The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, Bluebottle was reunited with fellow historic Royal vessels Bloodhound and Coweslip, bringing together this distinguished trio once more.

Franck Bruyere, Chief Executive of The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal Hotel said: "We are delighted that Bluebottle now joins the very select circle of winners of this prestigious trophy, and we hope that this marks the beginning of a new 'British era' of champions."

Bluebottle's Marblehead Trophy victory adds a significant new milestone to a remarkable story that connects royal heritage, classic yacht preservation and modern, high-level one-design racing.

IOCA Optimist Winter Championships at Rutland Sailing Club

 

The IOCA UK Optimist Winter Championships were held over 15-16th November hosted by Rutland Sailing Club with 128 Optimists travelling to compete on a chilly and wet weekend. The British winter was not enough to dampen their spirits and in breezes of 10-15knots they set out onto the water full of enthusiasm.

Main Fleet included 93 boats with Nigel Biggs leading the race committee in control of the race course as the first day was described as 'snakes and ladders racing' within the four flights with variable breeze on the far side of the lake. Laszlo Drummond led on day 1 with three 1st places under his belt.

Day two saw lots of movement in the results table with close scores across the fleets. Six races were completed over the weekend, Jonny Rogers was able to take first overall by 2 points, with Laszlo Drummond 2nd, Sean Di Salle close behind in 3rd overall. Lizzie Hudson took 1st girl in 10th place, Archie Dowling 1st under 10 in 15th overall, and Theo Fox 1st under 11 in 17th place.

Regatta Fleet had 33 entries, their course slightly closer to the clubhouse with more consistent breeze. Race committee was led by George Atwell ensuring 8 races were successfully completed by the fleet. 1st place was taken by Evelyn Rogerson with an impressive six race wins, 2nd place went to Leo Ellis-Asquith who stepped up his game on Day 2, and 3rd place to Xenia Hudson-Evans with points close between the first four sailors in the fleet.

The Coached Regatta fleet included 4 sailors and combined training and racing, with five races completed across the weekend. Led by Coach Lola Andrews their determination and sticking power was unmatched. They were still on the water long after the Main and Regatta Fleets had retired to the shore on Sunday afternoon, running on hot chocolate power and enthusiasm to build their racing skills! Well done to Fletch Sheely (1st), William Zhang (2nd), Zoe Grundy (3rd), Amina Melhem (4th).

Northumberland man completes three quarters of his solo around the world sailing challenge

 

A Northumberland sailor has sailed 21,000 of the 28,000 nautical miles needed to complete his attempt to sail solo around the world in a boat he built by hand.

Adam Waugh, who lives near Morpeth, is undertaking the voyage in support of the Ella Dawson Foundation – a UK charity that provides mental and physical health and wellbeing support to young adults with and beyond cancer, as well as their families and carers – with more than £50,000 raised so far.

The 61-year-old is currently competing in the inaugural Mini Globe Race, a 14-month, 28,000-nautical-mile solo circumnavigation in a 19-foot Class Globe 5.80 yacht named Little Wren, which he constructed entirely by hand at home despite having no prior boatbuilding experience.

The journey has taken him first across the Atlantic, his first ever ocean crossing, then the vast Pacific Ocean and he has now completed crossing most of the Indian Ocean.

The final part to complete once he reaches the end destination for the current leg (Cape Town, South Africa) is heading back up the Atlantic to the start of the race, Antigua, in two more legs.

He has been to many stunning locations, but has had to deal with navigating treacherous conditions and suffering some injuries.

He said: “There have been huge highs and lows, storms, injuries and many sleepless nights navigating treacherous seas, but knowing I am raising money to support young people through and beyond cancer keeps me going when it gets tough.

“It took me two years to build Little Wren and I’m very proud that she was built with the help of Accu’s precision engineering components.

After 11 months at sea, I’m thrilled with how Little Wren has stood up to so many challenges we’ve faced to date.

“I’m delighted to have partnered with Accu and grateful for their support of a fellow Huddersfield-based organisation, my chosen charity the Ella Dawson Foundation.”

Supporters can track Little Wren’s journey, follow Adam’s updates and donate to his £100,000 fundraising goal for the Ella Dawson Foundation at :-

 https://onemanoneboatonemission.com

Excelsior Trust appoints new skipper for 2026 sailing season

 

Adam James joins the Lowestoft-based sail training charity, bringing extensive experience in both sailing and boatbuilding.

Mr James said: "I have been lucky enough to sail most of my life, beginning with a mirror dinghy in Devon."

In his new role, Mr James is eager to engage with schools, and youth and adult groups, to introduce them to life on board.

He said: "I have really enjoyed the sailing trips I’ve done this year both filling in for Charlotte on the Tallships Race to Aberdeen and bringing Excelsior Home from the Baltic."

The 2026 sailing programme will start in spring, with various sails available from Suffolk and participation in The Tall Ships Races 2026.

Mr James said: "I am really looking forward to the amazing sailing schedule we have planned for 2026, especially visiting Norway."

All five-day and longer voyages qualify for the DofE Gold Residential Award.

For more details on the sailing schedule, visit the Excelsior Trust's website or call 07821 281950.

Top 5 Predicted Sailing Areas for 2026

Based on current trends (from rental companies, yachting-media, and traveller demand), here are the five sailing regions likely to be big in 2026, and why.

1) Red Sea (Saudi Arabia)

The Red Sea is becoming a “new frontier” for yacht charters in 2026, driven by the development of superyacht facilities (like Sindalah Marina) and more accessible charter licenses. 

It offers dramatic desert coastlines, coral reefs, and a mix of old-world and modern exploration. 

Best charter season is from November to March given climate. 

2). Sardinia & Corsica (Western Mediterranean)

Sardinia is highlighted in many 2026 charter guides as a top sailing destination. 

There are dedicated flotilla trips in Sardinia for summer 2026. 

The coast offers a great mix: sheltered anchorages, elegant marinas, rugged landscapes, and good sailing conditions. 

3). The Cyclades (Greece)

The Cycladic islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos, etc.) remain central in yachting itineraries. 

There’s momentum for the “lesser-visited” Cyclades, giving a more authentic experience beyond just the tourist hotspots. 

Well-suited to both experienced sailors (with longer passages between islands) and more relaxed cruising.

4) Croatian Dalmatian Coast / Adriatic

The Adriatic (especially Croatia) continues to be a favourite with charter companies.

Charming historic towns, many islands, good anchorages, and relatively less crowded than some parts of the Med make it very attractive.

Strong infrastructure (marinas, services) plus natural beauty combine to make this a “go-to.”

5). Greenland & Arctic Fjords

Luxury expedition-yachts are promoting Arctic sailing in 2026, especially to Greenland, combining adventure cruising with nature and wildlife. 

There’s additional hype around August 12, 2026, when a total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Greenland. 

For adventurers who don’t mind cold, remote cruising, the fjords of Greenland offer “pristine wilderness” sailing.

Why These Areas Are Trending :-

Emerging Infrastructure

Places like the Red Sea are building superyacht marinas, making them far more accessible.

Unique Experiences

Greenland + eclipse = a once-in-a-lifetime yachting experience.

Balanced Appeal

Regions like the Cyclades, Sardinia, and Croatia offer a mix of beauty, culture, and practical sailing conditions.

Sustainability and Exploration

More sailors are looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations, not just crowded summer hotspots.

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You. 

WITH 12,000 RENTAL YACHTS ACROSS 60 COUNTRIES WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

#yachts2rentnow