Great Britain wins SailGP Perth, beating Australia and France

 

Reigning Sail Grand Prix champions Great Britain have made the best possible start to season 2026, taking the win in Fremantle with a strong two-day performance culminating with victory in Sunday's final.

Australia just pipped France into second place, which had been the most dominant vessel in the seven fleet races and led the ladder after two days of competition. 

Great Britain and Australia managed to climb into the top three on Sunday, building on their strong first-day performances, and knocking the United States and Sweden out of the top three and the final. 

Gusty conditions made for much more uncomfortable sailing than on Saturday.

SailGP debutant Sweden was in dominant form on day one, locking in a first-place tie with the US and France, but failed to maintain their poise on Sunday, placing sixth, fourth, and 11th in the final fleet races.

Australia's driver Tom Slingsby said he was impressed with the team's performance after a last-minute substitution, with veteran sailor Glenn Ashby filling in for Iain Jensen, who was sidelined with a serious knee injury.

"You saw today even wing trimmers with like five, six years of experience of SailGP were struggling so much," he said.

"It's good to get second place when you consider we lost our wing trimmer a day before the event — only Glenn Ashby could do that."

Great Britain driver Dylan Fletcher said he was glad the team managed to rally to defend their title.

"Felt on the back foot yesterday, but really proud of how the whole team came together today and delivered, and great to get a win," he said.

"It's an incredible start to the 2026 season."

Cold-water sailing

 

Setting out on your first cold-water sail can feel exhilarating, but British waters deserve respect. Even in spring and summer, sea temperatures around the UK average just 12°C, cold enough to trigger shock or hypothermia within minutes if something goes wrong.

That risk catches out newcomers and experienced sailors alike. The difference between a great day on the water and a serious incident often comes down to preparation, awareness and a few fundamentals that are easy to overlook.

With that in mind, these are the essentials every beginner should have clear before heading out in UK waters.

Treating a life jacket as non-negotiable

One of the most common beginner mistakes is seeing a life jacket as optional, especially in calmer conditions. In cold water, it does far more than keep you afloat. It buys time, reduces panic and adds a small but important layer of insulation.

Fit matters. A poorly adjusted jacket can ride up, restrict movement or fail when you need it most. Recent RNLI checks have shown a surprising number of life jackets in circulation are faulty or incorrectly fitted, underlining how easy it is to get this wrong.

Getting used to wearing and adjusting your jacket before you need it makes a real difference if you end up in the water unexpectedly.

Taking weather checks seriously, every time

UK weather is famously changeable, and the sea often feels those shifts before land does. Checking more than one forecast, including local marine reports, helps build a fuller picture of what the day might bring.

Conditions can deteriorate quickly, even on short coastal sails. Knowing where you could shelter, anchoring options nearby and how to receive updates while afloat adds a layer of safety that beginners often underestimate.

Good clothing and reliable communication are not overkill. They are sensible responses to an unpredictable environment.

Knowing what to do if someone goes overboard

Basic rescue skills are not just for qualifications. They are practical tools that can save lives when reactions need to be fast and calm.

Practising man-overboard drills helps build muscle memory, so panic does not take over in cold or rough conditions. Understanding how to help someone reboard safely matters just as much as getting them back to the boat.

In cold water, time is critical. Confidence comes from preparation, not luck.

Making yourself easy to spot

Visibility can determine how quickly help arrives. On grey days, choppy water and low light can make a person or boat surprisingly hard to see.

Bright clothing, reflective strips and simple signalling tools all help create contrast against the sea. Small additions, such as whistles or personal locator beacons, can make a huge difference if visibility drops or distance increases.

Being seen is a core safety strategy, not an afterthought.

Planning for cold and hypothermia

Staying warm on the water is about layers, not bulk. A moisture-wicking base layer, insulation and a waterproof outer shell work together to trap heat while keeping spray and wind out.

Hands, feet and head lose heat fastest, so gloves and hats matter more than many beginners realise. Knowing early signs of hypothermia, such as uncontrollable shivering or confusion, allows for quicker, calmer responses.

Simple comforts, like a hot drink, can also help restore warmth and morale after exposure.

Where are the best Spring Sailing Holiday Areas ?

 

Here are some of the best sailing holiday areas for spring (March–May) — chosen for great weather, good winds, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds:

🌊 Classic Mediterranean Spring Sailing

🇬🇷 Greek Islands (Ionian & Aegean Seas)

Ideal mild temperatures and gentle winds in spring.

Perfect for island hopping, calm anchorages, and cultural exploration.

Great options: Zakynthos, Skiáthos, Corfu — clear waters and blooming landscapes.

🇭🇷 Croatian Adriatic Coast

Over 1,000 islands with calm spring seas and light winds — excellent for cruising.

Romantic historic towns (Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar) + secluded coves in the Kornati Archipelago.

🇮🇹 Sardinia & Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Sardinia: clear waters, sheltered coves around La Maddalena Islands.

Amalfi Coast: stunning cliffs and colourful villages — especially beautiful in May.

🇫🇷 French Riviera & Corsica

Antibes and the Côte d’Azur: lovely spring temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent marinas.

Corsica: dramatic Mediterranean coastlines and diverse anchorages.

🌴 Tropical & Warm-Weather Spring Sailing

🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands (Caribbean)

March is one of the best months for steady trade winds and reliable sailing conditions, with clear warm water and safe hurricane-free weather.

Ideal for both relaxed cruising and vibrant regattas (e.g., Spring Series).

🇦🇬 Antigua & Barbados / Caribbean

Antigua is world-renowned for Antigua Sailing Week in late April and great winds both before and after the race.

🇲🇽 Sea of Cortez (La Paz, Mexico)

Calm seas, rich marine life and warm conditions make this a superb April destination (often called the “Aquarium of the World”).

🌍 Interesting & Less-Typical Spring Sailing Spots

🇵🇹 Azores (Portugal)

Wild volcanic scenery and solitude without the usual crowds — great for adventurous sailors.

🇹🇭 Koh Yao Noi & Thailand

Quiet anchorages and warm Asian waters in spring, with relaxed island culture.

🇨🇱 Patagonia Fjords (Chile)

For experienced sailors, dramatic landscapes and off-the-beaten-path cruising (early season weather can be challenging).

🗺️ Quick Tips for Spring Sailing

Why spring is great:

Milder weather — not too hot, pleasant temperatures across most regions.

Fewer crowds & lower charter rates before summer peak season.

Perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced sailors — calmer seas and more space in anchorages.

Best months by region:

March: Caribbean is often the best choice with steady trade winds.

April–May: Mediterranean heats up with mild breezes and scenic cruising.

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?

Up to 50% OFF on Early Booking Deals!

#yachts2rentnow

Rolex SailGP Championship 2026 Season begins in Perth, Western Australia

 

The Rolex SailGP Championship begins this weekend, as Fremantle, Western Australia prepares to host its inaugural event from Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 January. The 2026 Season will feature 13 races across five continents, with new locations and a new team joining the championship, and innovative technologies once again set to take centre stage.

Emirates GBR SailGP Team return as defending champions after becoming the first team to win the title and the Impact League - the prestigious season-long competition that rewards teams for taking action to protect the planet and make sailing more inclusive - in the same season in 2025. Reflecting on the milestone year, Rolex Testimonee Sir Ben Ainslie, Chief Executive Officer for Emirates GBR SailGP Team, says:

"I'm so proud of the team both on and off the water. The 2025 Season was filled with highs and lows, but to finish in such a strong fashion - to win the Impact League, win the season outright and then win the Grand Final - was a huge achievement."

A competitive new chapter will see the debut of Sweden's Artemis SailGP Team expanding the fleet of F50 catamarans to 13, while the league's first-ever athlete transfer framework will be introduced. This evolution has prompted major team changes and welcomed new athletes, whose fresh perspectives and racing styles are set to add further intrigue to the season ahead. The calendar features the return of Geneva (Switzerland) plus Bermuda and Halifax (Canada) as host venues, while Perth (Australia) and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) will make their debut. 

These exciting additions reflect Rolex and SailGP's shared ambition to bring the pinnacle of innovation and high-performance sailing to new audiences around the world, growing the sport and inspiring the next generation. As one of the newest cities to join the championship, the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix will offer fans two days of electrifying action. 

SailGP extends its partnership with Doyle Sails through to 2030

 

SailGP, the most exciting racing on water, has announced an extension to its partnership with Doyle Sails through to 2030. A partner of the Rolex SailGP Championship since its inception, the industry leading sailmaker has powered SailGP’s F50 catamarans since its inaugural season in 2019.

Today’s partnership extension – announced just days ahead of the championship’s 2026 Season launch at the Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG (January 17–18) – marks the first five-year agreement between the two brands.

Home to some of the world’s best sailmakers, Doyle Sails has supported sailors globally for nearly four decades and is renowned for delivering innovative solutions for high-performance yachts. Doyle Sails supplies the six jibs for each of SailGP’s 13 international teams, ensuring they are race-ready on the startline at every stop across the 13-event calendar.

Doyle’s role extends beyond sail supply, supporting the modelling and analysis of the full aero package, including the multi-element hard wings. SailGP Technologies’ team of expert boat builders, designers and engineers work closely with Doyle Sails to analyze rig loads, assess the impacts of high forces on the wings, and refine the aerodynamics that underpin performance across the fleet.

Joel Marginson, SailGP Technologies Director, said: “Having a partner like Doyle Sails on board, providing best-in-class sails for one of the most advanced racing yachts in the world, is critical to our athletes’ experience, and the caliber of our racing. Our partnership with Doyle Sails has grown alongside our championship from the very beginning, with both brands pushing each other to improve, excel and continually innovate. We are looking forward to what’s in store over the next four seasons and beyond.”

Emma Hendy, Doyle Sails’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with SailGP through to 2030. From the very first season, SailGP has embodied the cutting edge of high-performance sailing, and being trusted to power the F50 fleet is both a privilege and a responsibility that Doyle Sails takes very seriously.

“This partnership is about far more than sail supply; it’s a deep technical collaboration focused on innovation, precision and performance at the very highest level. As SailGP continues to grow and evolve, we’re excited to keep pushing boundaries together and delivering solutions that help define the future of our sport.”

The 2026 Season of the Rolex SailGP Championship kicks off this weekend in Perth, racing in Western Australia’s capital for the very first time.

Ullswater Yacht Club 2026 Open Events

 

Ullswater Yacht Club (UYC) is gearing up for another thrilling season of open sailing in 2026, offering competitive racing across all classes on one of England's most scenic lakes.

2026 Key Dates

Date Open Event

25 & 26 April Magic Marine Daffodil Regatta (includes 2000 ‑ Latitude Series Event)

30 & 31 May Tempest Nationals and K6 Open

6 & 7 June RYA North West Junior & Youth Travellers

4 & 5 July 64th Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy

1 & 2 August Ullswater Regatta

7–9 August VX One European Open Regatta

5 & 6 September Flying Fifteen Northern Championships

26‑September Lakeland & Border ILCA Grand Prix (includes Series Prize‑giving)

3 & 4 October Northern Club Championships

25 October – 6 December UYC Open Winter Series

Visit the Ullswater Yacht Club website for more information.

Scottish Student Sport Announce New Partnership to Support Student Sailing

 

RYA Scotland is thrilled to have agreed a new two-year partnership with Scottish Student Sport (SSS), aimed at strengthening opportunities for student sailors across Scotland.

The collaboration will focus on key areas including event delivery and volunteer support, ensuring that sailing remains accessible and welcoming for all participants.

As part of the agreement, the volunteer-led Scottish Student Sailing Sports Group will continue to play a vital role in supporting events and creating development opportunities for students. Both organisations share a common ambition: to make sailing inclusive and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The competitive student sailing programme is already underway, with an upcoming League Weekend scheduled for 31 January – 1 February.

Commenting on the new Partnership, RYA Scotland CEO Finlo Cottier said: 

“Student sailing plays a vital role in helping young people continue their passion for our sport beyond school, and provides an opportunity for many to discover sailing for the first time.

RYA Scotland is delighted to strengthen our partnership with Scottish Student Sailing and Scottish Student Sport, working together to deliver the highest quality instruction, racing, and leisure opportunities for university students across Scotland.

Our strategy is built around People, Places, and Communities, and the student community brings incredible diversity and opportunity to those wishing to sail in Scotland.”

Sailing Lead at Scottish Student Sport Julia Stenhouse added:

“We are delighted to sign a new partnership with RYA Scotland, strengthening our shared commitment to creating a more visible, collaborative and engaging sailing environment for students.

This agreement will help grow participation, enhance workforce development and raise the profile of student sailing through closer collaboration on events, club development and communication.

We look forward to working closely with RYA Scotland to deliver meaningful opportunities and impact for student sailors across Scotland.”

GP14 World Championship 2026 at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club - NoR published

 

The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, in conjunction with the GP14 Class Association, is delighted to announce the publication of the Notice of Race for the GP14 World Championship, taking place from 8-14 August 2026.

The Notice of Race can be accessed now [PDF]

Event Director Gerry Reid commented: "We are thrilled to be hosting this prestigious championship. Working closely with the GP14 Class Association, preparations are well under way and we are very much looking forward to welcoming GP14 sailors from around the world. With 74 pre-entries already received and a maximum fleet of 100 boats, this promises to be a truly competitive and memorable event."

The 2026 GP14 Worlds promises outstanding racing combined with the Club's legendary Royal North hospitality, ensuring a warm welcome both on and off the water for all competitors and visitors.

For more information about the venue, racing area, and social programme, view the Event Brochure [PDF].

WoW. RORC 2026 Transatlantic Race Start Sunday 11 January 2026 | Marina ...

2026 ILCA Senior European Championships Applications Open

 

Applications are now open for the 2026 ILCA Senior European Championships & Open European Trophy to be held in Kastela, Croatia, from 15-22 May 2026.

The 2026 ILCA Senior European Championships & Open European Trophy is a restricted-entry allocation championship. Sailors wishing to enter must first complete an application form.

You can find all the information on the event website, 2026-senior.eurilca-europeans.org

The event is organised by JK Marina Kastela and EurILCA.

The ILCA Under 23 Senior European Titles Continue in 2026

Following the successful introduction in 2025, this year will mark the second edition of the Under 23 titles at the Europeans. The decision to offer a dedicated Under 23 competition in the Olympic classes (ILCA 7 and ILCA 6 Women), alongside the Senior titles, underscores the growing focus on the next generation of elite sailors, providing them with a unique platform to shine on the international stage.

As the event unfolds, the best young talents from across Europe will battle it out for these coveted titles, continuing to push the boundaries of skill and sportsmanship in the world of Olympic sailing.

Important Dates:

Application opening date: Mon 5th of January 2026

Close of applications for initial allocation: Sun 15th of March 2026, 23:59 GMT

Ranking of applications by National Associations: Mon 16th of March until Tue 3rd of March 2026, 0:00 GMT

Late application opening date: Tue 3rd of March 2026

Entry closing date: Thu 16th of April

All coach/support boats shall register here before Thu 30th of April 2026.

Back-to-Back wins for Pank in the GJW Direct 50th Bloody Mary

Blind sailor aims for 2032 Paralympics

 

A blind sailor is aiming for the Paralympics in Brisbane in 2032, after winning medals in the World Sailing Inclusion Championships.

Karl Haines, 36, from Tile Hill in Coventry, has the hereditary and degenerative eye condition, retinitis pigmentosa, and took a gold as well as the overall bronze for Britain at the inaugural tournament in Oman in December.

He said he and his wife got into the sport after the Covid pandemic, taking advantage of Discover Sailing open days.

"We did that at Tamworth Sailing Club at Kingsbury Water Park and that's where it all started," he said.

Karl was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa when he was a teenager and knows he could ultimately lose his remaining eyesight.

"It's a bit like looking through binoculars with no zoom, so I have very much what people describe as tunnel vision. I do have a very little bit of wide peripheral vision and it's encompassed with night blindness as well, so in dim light or dark places, I really, really struggle with that as well."

He said as his eyesight worsened, he would have to give up sailing on his own at the Tamworth club.

"That will end. And that's what got me involved in the GB Blind Sailing team.

"They did a training event at Draycote two-and-a-half, three years ago. It's been the opening of a door for me, being able to compete in these international competitions."

His ultimate ambition is to represent Paralympics GB at the 2032 Paralympic Games in Brisbane, despite para-sailing not being included since 2012.

He added World Sailing was "desperate" to try and get it back in, and the recent competition was the first step in "showing the world" it was ready.

Haines said competing was definitely on his radar.

"If I'm realistic, who knows if I'll be good enough, young enough or fit enough?

"But I think that has to be the end goal and the aspiration to drive me forward. Yeah, 100 per cent, I want to be there."

More Kind Reviews, Thank You so Much We are so Grateful

 

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

14 Oct 2025

Very positive experience with customer support

I have asked the customer support numerous questions on cancellations, yacht locations and contact information of boat owners. Ece in particular has been very helpful in helping me answer these questions (and possibly questions I'll have in the future) and they have done a great job! The responses were very quick, exactly what I required, and always polite. Besides this, the booking process has been very smooth so far. Will use you again in the future!

Thomas Werthenbach

Netherlands

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

29 Nov 2025

I am very happy to booked with you…                                                                                                                                                                           

I am very happy to have  booked with you because Ms. Ece was the best supporter. She has replied instantly to all my question and been a bridge with the Captain.I hope I feel the same on  my holiday.

Gokmen Dursun

Turkey

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

8 Dec 2025

Sedef was very responsive and gave a…

Sedef was very responsive and gave a great service.

Paul Austin

Malta

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Customer Rep                                                                                                                                                                                                          24Dec 2025

Customer rep. Ms. Sedef has perfectly coordinate and assist me, in order to rent very suitable boat for my needs.

I am really grateful to her🙏🏻

Osman Alpturer

Turkey

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