Poole Week 2026 is getting closer

 

Poole Week (23rd to 28th August) is getting ever closer, and Parkstone Yacht Club is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year.

Events on this scale demand vast amounts of organisation and endless hours of planning and preparation by volunteers. Commercial sponsorship has become ever more important, too. Poole Week is delighted to welcome Haven Knox-Johnston as headline sponsor, with day sponsors including Charles Stanley (wealth management), Preston Redman (solicitors) and Badger Beers (Hall & Woodhouse Brewery).

Prizes have long been a major part of Poole Week, where even those who don't win on the water can still be rewarded at the daily prize-giving after racing. Competitors come ashore from a great afternoon in the harbour, put their boats away, shower and change and have a beer or two (or tea and cake, included in the entry fee).

Then, to top it all, they might find they've won a fantastic prize in the daily draw even if they finished mid-fleet. Zhik is this year's headline prize sponsor, with other prizes generously provided by Sailteck, Optimum Time, Marlow Ropes and Harken.

The evening's entertainment doesn't end there, however. Social highlights of the week include live music on Wednesday and Thursday nights and a DJ for the end-of-week prize-giving on Friday.

Whatever anyone might think about the need for commercial sponsorship, there's no doubt that events like Poole Week are bigger and better for it. Whether the sponsors are local companies or names that are known across the sailing world, they're getting involved because they want to, and Poole Week is grateful for their support. That includes Bournemouth Digital, who supply the all-important website.

It's still not too late to be part of the fun. Entries are open until 17th August and day-entries can be made every day on the day.

To find out more and to enter, visit www.PooleWeek.org

Albacore Southern Championship 2026 at Lyme Regis Sailing Club

 

The Albacore Southern Area Championship got under way in spectacular fashion at Lyme Regis Sailing Club, with a stunning Friday evening Town Regatta firework display lighting up the harbour and providing the perfect welcome for competitors arriving for the weekend.

Saturday morning saw eight visitors and seven local boats launch into a gentle Force 2-3 SW breeze. As the day unfolded, the wind steadily built into a classic Lyme Regis Force 4, delivering the champagne sailing conditions everyone had hoped for. Bright sunshine and rolling waves which made for an unforgettable day's racing.

After three races, there was only a few points between the first 3 boats and hence the championship was still wide open. However, the fleet was pleased to get ashore and rest some tired bodies and enjoy the Club bar and BBQ.

The two races on Sunday were sailed in much lighter southerly F1-2 wind which reshuffled the pack, allowing some of the lighter crews (Cameron/Isla & Simon/Rhys) to come to the front of the fleet.

Lyme Bay once again provided a superb championship arena, testing every crew while rewarding consistency and boat speed. The fleet enjoyed close and competitive racing throughout, with every gust and shift demanding sharp tactical decisions and slick teamwork.

Congratulations go to Allan & Chris Tyler (Albacore 8236), who produced a consistent series to take the Southern Area Championship with 5 points. Second place went to Paul Gimson & Helen Baines (7912) on 14 points, with Charles Davenport & Mark Fowler (8264) completing the podium on 15 points after a closely fought championship.

A huge thank you goes to the race management team, safety boat crews, volunteers and everyone at Lyme Regis Sailing Club for delivering another first-class championship. This sets the benchmark for next years Albacore Internationals which are being held at Lyme Regis from July 10-17 2027.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Crew R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 Pts

1 8236 Allan Tyler Chrissie 1 ‑4 1 1 2 5

2 7912 Paul Gimson Helen Baines 3 1 4 6 ‑10 14

3 8264 Charles Devenport Mark Fowler 2 2 6 5 (RET) 15

4 8075 Dave Stubbs Ed Stubbs 4 ‑6 3 4 5 16

5 8266 Matthew Thompson Heather Thompson ‑11 5 2 7 4 18

6 8209 Cameron Moss TBC 7 ‑10 8 3 1 19

7 8131 Simon Law 8 (BFD) 12 2 3 25

8 7987 Richard Smith Annissa Baines 9 7 5 ‑13 7 28

9 8128 Jake Stow Ian Wallace 5 ‑12 7 8 8 28

10 7989 Joss Kent 6 8 10 ‑15 13 37

11 8237 Matthew Mercalfe‑Smith Jason Upton 10 3 11 14 (DNC) 38

12 6654 Clive Gimson Tim NORMAN ‑13 9 9 9 12 39

13 8001 Andy Robinson 12 ‑14 13 11 6 42

14 8235 Stephen Swinchatt Helen MacVean ‑14 11 14 10 9 44

15 8263 Stephen Bailey Jeremy Wallace ‑15 13 15 12 11 51

Welsh sailing club to host 80th national championships starting this weekend

 

Tenby Sailing Club has revealed preparations for hosting a prestigious national championship from this weekend.

The club is set to welcome participants of the 80th Firefly National Championships.

Boasting an impressive 116 entries, the event will unfold over a week beginning Saturday, August 8, with a Commodore's welcome reception.

The club has engaged volunteers for a variety of roles, including arrivals, safety crew, race officials, beach masters, catering, and social arrangements, underscoring the importance of community support for the large-scale event.

In addition to the national championship preparations, Tenby Sailing Club has been busy with routine races.

Two races took place on August 1 in favourable conditions.

The first saw a diverse mix of adult and junior members, with Phantom 1435, helmed by Ben Dancer, taking the lead.

Other successes came from Osprey 1342, manned by Ted Lewis and Lucas Boissevain, and Optimist 9, skippered by Lottie Dashfield.

The secondary race saw a repeat of Phantom 1435 claiming first place, while Osprey 1342 reaffirmed its reliability by taking second.

RS Aero 7 from Dyfan Williams secured the third position this time.

July 31's cruiser race saw yachts from both Tenby and Saundersfoot competing.

Notably, their dinghy race event on July 28 had a turnout of eight boats, with Redwing 244, led by Robin Wood and Gary Jarvis, finishing first.

Sir Ben Ainslie to race with Athena Pathway Youth Squad at 200th Cowes Week

 

Sir Ben Ainslie is set to return to Cowes Week for its 200th edition, joining members of the Athena Pathway Youth Squad on the Solent as the team continues to support the development of Britain’s next generation of sailors.

The collaboration will see emerging talent compete alongside one of sailing’s most accomplished figures at the regatta. The four-time Olympic gold medallist will race over four days with GB1 sailor Ben Cornish and Emirates GBR SailGP Team sailor Neil Hunter aboard the Cape 31 Fargo.

Joining them will be Athena Pathway Youth Squad sailors Finn Dickinson, Kai Hockley, Katy Jenkins and Kuba Staite, all of whom are part of the programme’s high-performance development pathway.

The initiative forms part of Athena Pathway’s wider goal to accelerate the development of young British sailing talent by allowing athletes to compete alongside elite sailors in a major regatta.

Building experience through elite competition

Sir Ben Ainslie, founder of Athena Pathway, comments: “Cowes Week has always been one of the best places to learn how to race sailboats. The racing is incredibly competitive, and the conditions constantly challenge you to adapt and improve.

“Having the opportunity to race alongside these young athletes for four days allows us to pass on experience in real racing situations, helping them build the skills, confidence and decision-making that will be invaluable as they progress through the pathway towards the highest levels of our sport.”

While Athena Pathway is preparing athletes for the future of high-performance foiling, the programme says keelboat racing remains an important part of sailors’ development. Cowes Week provides an opportunity to strengthen core sailing skills, including sail trim, teamwork, tactical awareness and boat handling, which continue to underpin success across multiple disciplines.

Youth Squad continue America’s Cup development

Away from the racing, members of the Youth Squad will host daily question-and-answer sessions in the Youth Sailing Zone on The Parade, where aspiring sailors and visitors will be able to hear about their experiences in high-performance sailing and learn more about opportunities available through the Athena Pathway programme.

As the four Youth Squad sailors will race on the Solent, another five are continuing their development in Cagliari, training alongside the British Women’s America’s Cup Team on an AC40 foiling yacht as they build experience ahead of future Women’s, Youth and America’s Cup campaigns.

Historic Tall Ship Morgenster announces exclusive sailing experiences in Plymouth Sound

 

Residents and visitors to Plymouth will have a rare opportunity to experience traditional seafaring this summer as the classic tall ship Morgenster arrives in Britain’s Ocean City. From Thursday 27th until Monday 31st August, the historic vessel will be offering unforgettable sailing adventures in Plymouth Sound.

Operating two daily departures at 09:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00 from the Barbican Landing Stage, the three-hour adventure invites participants of all experience levels to step aboard a piece of maritime history. Guests are given the unique chance to actively participate in the voyage by helping the professional crew set the sails and taking a turn at the helm, or simply relax on deck to take in panoramic coastal views.

Booking details:

Dates: Thursday 27th to Monday 31st August

Trip times: 09:00–12:00 and 14:00–17:00 daily

From: Barbican Landing Stage

Ticket prices: Adults £55; Children (under 15 years) £40 (please note that experience has shown that these day sailings are best suited for participants aged 12 and over).

Guests are kindly requested to arrive alongside the ship at least 20 minutes prior to departure. Upon arrival, a complimentary tea and coffee station will be available, and an onboard bar will remain open throughout the voyage offering a selection of soft drinks, beers, wines, and hot beverages (additional charges apply).

Comfortable clothing, a windproof jacket, and suitable footwear are strongly recommended.

Originally launched in 1919 as the sailing herring lugger De Vrouwe Maria, Dutch tall ship Morgenster boasts a century-long legacy of maritime transformation. After decades as a commercial North Sea fishing vessel, wartime service, and a brief 1970s detour involving government seizure under false suspicions of pirate radio activity, she was acquired in 1983 by Harry and Marian Muter.

Following an extensive, multi-decade restoration culminating in her 2008 re-commissioning as a classic clipper-brig, she now operates out of Den Helder in the Netherlands as a world-class sail-training ship, participating in major European maritime festivals, Royal Netherlands Navy training exercises, Tall Ships Races, and public adventure voyages.

Places are limited, so book early and experience the magic of traditional sailing aboard the tall ship Morgenster.

Bookings can be made directly via https://zeilbrik.org/product/plymouth-harbour-sailing-experience/

ILCA open meeting at Overy Staithe Sailing Club

 

Race 1 of the 2026 OSSC Laser Open 1-2 August 2026  was sailed in lovely sunshine and a gentle force 2 providing sparkling conditions for the competitors.

During race 2 the wind became very fickle and the tide started sucking people out of the harbour. This lasted about 20 minutes until suddenly a lovely force 3 sprang up again which enabled most people to finish and to sail home. Lucy Lamont and Jonathon Jones were the race winners.

Day 2 saw another two races sailed in a gentle force 2 and sunshine. Lucy Lamont made the best start in race 3 which helped her to establish a good lead up the first beat before being overhauled by Jonathan Jones. Dave Cooper, Ashley Deakin and Brian Lambert all sailed consistently well to establish themselves in the overall standings.

For race 4 Lucy had to win to be first overall and made a poor start having to return from being over the line. However this was much better than Jonathan Jones and Sam Worsley who finished in first and third places but were both disqualified for being over the line at the start - leaving Lucy as the overall winner.

Well done also to a couple more juniors Felix Williams and Polly Kurushchak, both of whom completed all four races to finish 18th and 19th overall.

Many thanks to Team Turner as Race Officers and the A-Team of safety boat drivers, Ben Goakes and Julie Carroll, Paul Goakes and Rod Thorpe.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm R1 R2 R3 R4 Pts

1 189186 Lucy Lamont 1 5 2 1 4

2 213542 Jonathan Jones 2 1 1 OCS 4

3 174547 Ashley Deakin 3 10 4 2 9

4 218421 Brian Lambert 4 2 3 4 9

5 117461 Dave Cooper 7 6 6 3 15

6 120 Will Worsley 10 3 8 6 17

7 218349 Luke Cornwall Jones 8 Dnf 5 5 18

8 None Alex Smith 6 12 9 8 23

9 158374 Sam Worsley 11 8 7 OCS 26

10 198981 Nina Plumbe 16 7 10 11 28

11 218433 Phil Henson 15 Dnf 12 7 34

12 195196 Rob Archer 9 4 Dns Dns 35

13 174899 Colin Hargreaves 5 9 Dns Dns 36

14 142775 Alex Vandeleur 12 13 13 12 37

15 132167 Antonia Bullivant 14 11 14 13 38

16 170901 Elliot Brader Dns Dns 11 9 42

17 128747 Kurt Jesson 17 17 15 10 42

18 177546 Felix Williams 18 16 16 14 46

19 22 Polly Kurushchak 20 15 17 15 47

20 174629 Sophia Hodges 13 14 Dns Dns 49

21 160552 Tim Holmes 19 Dnf Dns Dns 62

Nacra 15 World Championship 2026 at Plymouth, UK

 

As the Nacra 15 fleet reached their final day, everyone anxiously looked out to sea to see how truthful the weather forecast was. Miraculously, a short hold ashore of the fleet enabled RO David Rollinson to set up a course inside Plymouth Sound, where the scorching temperature had brought out a stable 10 knot sea breeze.

With most of the overall results mostly decided, the fleet conservatively got away cleanly on the first black flag, despite the pile up at the committee boat. Two race wins ensued for Italy 393, but they were not enough to overtake Italy 228.

After racing, the fleet headed ashore for the pack up and prize-giving. They were all treated to Cornish pastys and scones, lovingly made and distributed by the Boalch family, while the final protests took place. The overall prize-giving was overseen by Event Director Sam Marshall and Class Manager Edwin Lodder, where all the winners were treated to extravagant prizes from the sponsors, and rapturous applause from the onlooking crowd.

Thanks go to the OA of Hooe Point Sailing Club and Plym Yacht Club, as well as the numerous volunteers from across the City and the Country. Also to the sponsors, Plymouth Yacht Haven, Yacht Haven Quay, Shopfitting by SWS, Dart Sails and Covers, Yarde Farm ice cream, Gill, Kingfisher Ropes, South Coast Embroidery and Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, all of which without their support the event would not have been possible.

Under 17 prizes:

3rd - ITALY 197 Julilya Albrizio and Simone Oteri

2nd - FRANCE 135 Julian Autret and Paco Dengreville

1st - HUNGARY 299 Samson Litkey and Tristan Litky

Under 19 prizes:

3rd - USA 346 Dylan Tomko and Casey Small

2nd - ITALY 393 Alessandro Vargiu and Noa Lisci

1st - ITALY 228 Mattia Di Martino and Nina Cittar

Overall Championship prizes:

3rd FRANCE 362 Anahita Fontanille and Leo Jean-Albert

2nd - ITALY 393 Alessandro Vargiu and Noa Lisci

1st - ITALY 228 Mattia Di Martino and Nina Cittar

Nations Cup:

3rd HUNGARY

2nd FRANCE

1st ITALY

Craftinsure Supernova Travellers Series at Chelmarsh Sailing Club

 

The Chelmarsh S.C. Craftinsure Supernova event took place at its picturesque 110 acre reservoir in a sometimes fickle 10 knot or often less NorthWest breeze and in bright sunshine. Race Officer John Dickinson and his team put on three races, each of around one hour, for the six local boats and three visitors, one travelling from Devon to our Shropshire location.

The first race was delayed until mid-day for the predicted increase in wind but a directional change in the last minute of the start caused an abandonment.

The revised line and course saw a clear all starboard tack start. Matt. Thursfield (1302 Chelmarsh) tacked and beat a contrarian path to the first mark but boats on a starboard approach were headed in the final few metres thus allowing the port arrivals of Ian Horlick (1361 RYA) to claim the lead with Duncan Cheshire (1281. Chelmarsh) and Stephen Woodhouse (1286 Chelmarsh) following.

Those three boats took a handsome lead while the rest gazed at the 360 degree turns of their burgees before rounding.

Some 'navigational errors' at the wing mark resulted in a five boat competition for leeward mark room resulting in David Bibby (1297 Chelmarsh) 'honourably' bailing out to prevent disaster.

The phoenixes rising from these ashes were Ian and Alex Reeve (1344 Burghfield). The former developing an unassailable lead and the latter an unassailable second to the finish with Matt T in third. Duncan C and David Partridge (1250 Chelmarsh) took 4th and 5th placings.

Race 2 start promised more breeze and the pin end starters were favoured off the line. Matt T was first to round the windward mark followed by Ian and Alex. In a falling breeze and a half mile run, places changed frequently between all boats.

At the already notorious leeward mark room 'battlefield' a revision of order took place with David P elevated to third position ahead of Ian and Duncan.

On the next beat saw the 'hand of the Lord' reach out to Ian and provide him with a double digit lift, elevating him to into the mark well ahead and to the finish.

Now followed by Alex and Matt T with Duncan and David P thereafter.

Race 3 start again saw the pin end start to be best but again the breeze filled in from the left, bringing in the port approaching fleet back into contention. Matt T rounded first, followed by Stephen, Alex and David P.

The long reach/run first two groupings were like close and neat chevrons. Stephen, Alex and Matt well ahead of the second comprising Matt Robbinson (1317 Chelmarsh) Ian and Alistair Reid (1270 Blithfield). The fleet behind being more separated.

New a bit of a drifter, the lead three of Alex, Ian and Matt T were being 'wound in' by Alister, Matt R. and Duncan. The gap between the two groups rapidly disappearing.

Alex hung on to win with Ian, Matt T, David P and Stephen to follow. The positions here described in race 2 were subject to a protest.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Club R1 R2 R3 Pts

1 1344 Alex Reeve Burghfield 2 ‑3 1 3

2 1361 lan Horlock RYA 1 (DSQ) 2 3

3 1302 Matt Thursfield Chelmarsh ‑3 1 3 4

4 1250 David Partridge Chelmarsh ‑5 2 4 6

5 1281 Duncan Cheshire Chelmarsh 4 4 ‑7 8

6 1286 Stephen Woodhouse Chelmarsh ‑8 6 5 11

7 1317 Matt Robinson Chelmarsh ‑6 5 6 11

8 1270 Alistair Reid Blithfield 7 7 ‑8 14

9 1297 David Bibby Chelmarsh ‑9 8 9 17

Northern Club Championship 2026 at Ullswater Yacht Club

 

The Northern Club Championships 3-4 October 2026 is the premier end-of-season all-classes handicap event, bringing together sailors from across the region to compete for the title of Northern Club Champion.

Racing will take place over two days at Ullswater, with five races scheduled across a variety of courses. All boats compete on a single start line, creating exciting and competitive racing between a diverse fleet of dinghies. One discard will apply, and the combined results will determine the top five clubs.

The leading five clubs will each qualify four boats for the Championship Sail-Off. With all previous scores discarded, the finalists will go head-to-head in a winner-takes-all race to decide the Northern Club Champion. The final promises a thrilling spectacle, watched from the shore by competitors, supporters and team members alike.

There is no limit to the number of entries a club may submit, meaning that strong participation across a range of classes can provide a significant advantage. As every sailor knows, however, success will ultimately depend on the conditions on the day and making the most of whatever the weather delivers.

Running alongside the main event will be the Junior Northern Club Championships. Following the same format and racing on the same waters, junior sailors will compete to earn the title of Junior Northern Club Champions.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Ullswater, one of the UK's most beautiful lakes, competitors can expect a memorable championship. Renowned for its dramatic scenery and famously challenging sailing conditions, Ullswater offers fluctuating winds and tactical racing that will test even the most experienced sailors.

Whether you are aiming for club glory or simply looking to measure yourself against some of the finest sailors in the North of England, the Northern Club Championships promises a weekend of outstanding competition and great sailing.

The Notice of Race is now available on the website and entries are officially open.

Competitors are encouraged to enter early and secure their place at what promises to be a fantastic weekend of racing on Ullswater.

Camping will be available on site throughout the event, allowing sailors and supporters to make the most of the championship atmosphere. Catering will also be available on Saturday evening, providing an opportunity for competitors to relax and socialise after racing.

We are also planning an RYA Rules Discussion session in the clubhouse on Saturday evening, giving sailors the chance to hear from experienced race officials, discuss racing scenarios and refresh their understanding of the Racing Rules of Sailing ahead of the final day's competition.

We look forward to welcoming clubs and sailors from across the North of England to Ullswater for a memorable weekend of competitive racing and great hospitality.

RS Aero Worlds Set Course for Australia, Italy and Scotland

 

The RS Aero class has confirmed the next three hosts for its World Championships, unveiling a long-term calendar that will take the lightweight singlehander fleet to Australia, Italy and Scotland between 2027 and 2029. The announcement gives competitors several years to prepare campaigns and international travel. 

The venues were revealed during Travemünder Woche in Germany, where almost 200 sailors were competing at the RS Aero European and Youth World Championships as part of RS Games 2026.

The 2027 RS Aero World Championship will be hosted by Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron on Port Phillip, Melbourne, from 16-22 January.

In 2028, the fleet heads to the renowned sailing waters of Lake Garda, Italy, where Circolo Vela Arco will stage the championship from 26 August to 1 September.

The 2029 championship will then move to Dalgety Bay Sailing Club on Scotland's Firth of Forth from 25-31 August.

RS Aero Class Manager Sammy Isaacs Johnson said announcing venues well in advance was important for a class with a truly international membership.

"The RS Aero community spans the globe," she said. "Campaigning an RS Aero is as much about the adventure as it is the competition, so we want to give sailors plenty of time to plan."

She added that the class aims to deliver "exceptional racing in outstanding venues" while strengthening the worldwide RS Aero community.

The class believes the three venues offer contrasting but equally attractive sailing. Melbourne brings the open waters of Port Phillip, Lake Garda offers its famous thermal breezes beneath the Italian Alps, while Scotland's Firth of Forth provides racing under the iconic Forth Bridges.

The announcement comes as international classes increasingly award major championships several years ahead to help host clubs, competitors and national associations prepare.

While no decision has been announced beyond 2029, there is industry speculation that an Irish yacht club could bid to host the 2030 RS Aero World Championship. However, no formal bid or host selection has yet been confirmed.

Historic Fastnet Winner Tally Ho Bound for Baltimore Harbour

 

Historic Fastnet Race winner Tally Ho is expected to arrive in Baltimore, West Cork, on Friday evening, marking a special Irish stop during her Atlantic voyage back to Britain. 

The beautifully restored 48-foot gaff-rigged cutter is now expected to arrive between 3pm and 7pm, although organisers say the latest estimate points towards closer to 7pm, subject to weather and sailing conditions.

The visit follows an invitation from Baltimore publican and wooden  boat enthusiast Bill Hillyard, whose admiration for the yacht's remarkable restoration prompted him to invite skipper Leo Sampson Goolden and his crew to West Cork.

A traditional harbour welcome is planned.

Renowned boatbuilder Liam Hegarty is expected to greet Tally Ho aboard Saoirse, the replica of Conor O'Brien's famous yacht. Members of Baltimore Sailing Club, local traditional wooden  boats and other vessels are also expected to join a welcoming flotilla, alongside the Baltimore RNLI lifeboat, subject to operational requirements.

Designed by Albert Strange and built in Sussex in 1910, Tally Ho secured her place in offshore racing history by winning the 1927 Fastnet Race on corrected time after a celebrated duel with the schooner La Goleta.

After decades of changing ownership and eventual neglect in Oregon, the yacht was bought by British boatbuilder Leo Sampson Goolden for just $1 in 2017.

Over seven years, Goolden led an extensive restoration in Washington State, documenting the project on YouTube for a worldwide audience.

Now back under sail, Tally Ho is completing a 14,000-mile voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Britain with the ambition of racing once again in the 2027 Fastnet Race, exactly 100 years after her famous victory.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Hillyard said he had followed the restoration from the beginning and felt compelled to invite the yacht to Baltimore.

"When my wife, Ann, and I moved from California to Baltimore in 2019, I never imagined that one day I'd be welcoming one of the most famous boats in Fastnet history to our adopted home," he said.

Goolden said returning to Baltimore would be a highlight of the voyage. 

"I have wonderful memories of sailing into Baltimore many years ago," he said. "Tally Ho's story has always been about the people who have helped bring her back to life, so being able to stop in a community with such strong maritime traditions and such close ties to the Fastnet makes this a very special part of the voyage."

Summer Sailing Hotspots

 

If you're looking for the best European sailing destinations this summer, the ideal choice depends on whether you want lively nightlife, secluded anchorages, reliable winds, or easy island hopping.

Here are some of the standout hotspots to consider :-

🇭🇷 Dalmatian Coast

One of Europe's most popular sailing regions.

Highlights:

Island-hop between Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula, and Mljet.

Hundreds of sheltered coves and historic harbours.

Crystal-clear water and relatively short sailing passages.

Best for: First-timers, flotillas, families, and mixed groups.

🇬🇷 Cyclades

Famous for whitewashed villages and stronger summer winds.

Highlights:

Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Santorini.

Reliable Meltemi winds in July and August.

Spectacular scenery and authentic tavernas.

Best for: Experienced sailors seeking exciting sailing.

🇬🇷 Ionian Islands

The gentler Greek option.

Highlights:

Lefkada, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Paxos.

Warm, calm seas with predictable afternoon breezes.

Plenty of protected anchorages.

Best for: Beginners and relaxed cruising.

🇮🇹 Amalfi Coast and Aeolian Islands

Amalfi Coast

Positano, Amalfi, Capri.

Dramatic cliffs and luxury atmosphere.

Can become crowded in peak season.

Aeolian Islands

Active volcanoes including Stromboli.

Excellent swimming and unique overnight anchorages.

Best for: Food, scenery and memorable cruising.

🇪🇸 Balearic Islands

Includes Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

Highlights:

Beautiful turquoise coves.

World-class beach clubs alongside peaceful anchorages.

Excellent marinas and charter infrastructure.

Best for: Combining sailing with nightlife and beaches.

🇫🇷 French Riviera

Highlights:

Nice, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.

Luxury marinas and glamorous ports.

Great restaurants and events.

Best for: Luxury yachts and vibrant social scene.

🇹🇷 Turquoise Coast

Although partly in Asia, it's one of the Mediterranean's premier sailing destinations.

Highlights:

Göcek, Fethiye, Marmaris.

Pine-covered bays and ancient ruins.

Excellent value compared with much of Western Europe.

Best for: Longer cruises and excellent value.

Best by interest,  then go to...

Easy island hopping Croatia

Reliable sunshine Greece

Calm sailing Ionian Islands

Stronger winds Cyclades

Luxury French Riviera

Nightlife Ibiza & Mykonos

History Croatia & Turkey

Best value Croatia & Turkey

Food & wine Italy

When to go

June: Warm weather, fewer crowds, good prices.

July: Peak season with excellent weather and busy marinas.

August: Hottest and busiest month; book berths well in advance.

September: Often considered the sweet spot—warm sea, settled weather, and fewer crowds.

For a one-week charter, Croatia and the Ionian Islands are often the easiest and most rewarding. If you're after more adventurous sailing the Cyclades offer some of the Mediterranean's best wind conditions.

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Pollard Retains SB20 UK Title in Solent Championship

 

Defending world champion John Pollard successfully retained his SB20 UK National title after leading XCELLENT to victory at the 2026 Rovika UK and Open SB20 Championships on the Solent.

The four-day championship, hosted by the Royal London Yacht Club, attracted 31 teams from five nations and delivered everything from 25-knot winds to light-air tactical racing.

Pollard, sailing with Henry Wetherell and David Chapman, topped both the Open Championship and the UK National standings after a consistent series that included six race wins.

Sunday's scheduled racing was abandoned before  boats left the dock when gusts exceeded 25 knots. Race officer Peter Taylor kept the fleet ashore, allowing competitors to regroup before racing resumed in more manageable conditions on Monday.

Monday provided classic Solent sea-breeze racing, with Pollard's crew establishing a narrow overnight lead after three races.

The championship concluded on Tuesday in lighter winds. Taylor's race management team completed four races before the final warning signal deadline, using Vakaros RaceSense technology to identify individual boats over the start line and avoid general recalls.

Although XCELLENT dominated the series, the fleet remained highly competitive. Singapore's Glasgow Kiss claimed one race victory and finished second overall in the Open Championship, while Australia's Porco Rosso completed the podium.

Reflecting on the victory, Pollard said the fleet featured "plenty of champions on the line" and praised both the standard of racing and the atmosphere ashore.

"Super pleased to take the win in a tight fleet with plenty of champions on the line. A fantastic event and what a fleet with a great dockside atmosphere."

The championship also recognised standout performances across the fleet. Australia's Ares won the Top Female Team award, while Belgium's youth sailors impressed throughout the regatta.

UK SB20 Class chairman Charlie Whelan said the turnout demonstrated the class's continued growth.

"To see 31 boats on the start line supported by world-class race management showed just how strong, friendly and inclusive this fleet has become," he said.

Overall Open Championship

XCELLENT (GBR) — John Pollard, Henry Wetherell, David Chapman

Glasgow Kiss (SIN) — Nils Razmilovic, Marcus Tressler, David Salembier

Porco Rosso (AUS) — Paul McCartney, Will Sargent, Sam Tiedman

UK National Championship

XCELLENT — John Pollard, Henry Wetherell, David Chapman

PBTwenty II — Mark Gillett, Paul Hine, Richard Anderton

Reservoir Bod — Charlie Whelan, Richard McAdam, Patrick Whelan