Dublin Bay’s 2026 Spring Chicken Series Set for February Start

 

Dublin Bay Sailing Club (DBSC) has released the sailing instructions for the 2026 AIB DBSC Spring Chicken Series, scheduled to begin on Sunday, 1 February.

The 25th anniversary edition of the popular six-week event will run each Sunday morning through to 8 March 2026, with the first warning signal at 10:10. Up to four starts are scheduled, with classes announced each race day via VHF Channel 74.

Won last year by John Maybury's J109, Joker II of the Royal Irish Yacht Club, the event attracted an entry of 40 boats.

The event is hosted by the National Yacht Club.

Courses will be designated on the day by the Race Committee and broadcast over VHF. Marks may include The Muglins, Yellow Outfall buoy, and inflatable marks.

Races will be scored using a Modified ECHO handicap system on a time-on-time basis. Handicaps will be recalculated weekly based on performance.

The ethos of the series remains “fun-focused”, according to organisers. Competitors are encouraged to prioritise safety and consideration. “We would request that all boats, and especially our more ‘experienced’ sailors, give plenty of room to other boats in all situations,” the sailing instructions state.

Each boat must carry a working VHF radio capable of transmitting on Channel 74, and all crew must wear lifejackets. Racing will take place within Dublin Bay, with a strict prohibition on entering the Dublin Port Channel or interfering with commercial shipping.

Boats reported by Harbour Masters for interfering with commercial traffic will be disqualified without a hearing, per the amended Racing Rules of Sailing.

Competitors must also avoid coastal swimming zones and keep clear of other harbour users when entering or leaving Dun Laoghaire.

All entries must ensure proper insurance is in place, and any boat retiring from a race must inform the committee boat immediately.

Results of each race will be published in the days following each event. Full rules, including hearing procedures and scoring systems, are outlined in the sailing instructions, available below as a pdf download.

New tidal and berthing training offered by expert Associated Marine Training at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour

 

New training courses are being introduced by Associated Marine Training at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour in waterfront meeting rooms created by the boatshed redevelopment.

The expert training opportunities are being offered to berth holders as well as visiting boaters, with day courses in February, March and April to include:   

A focused theory session on Beaulieu River tidal flows

Practical manoeuvres on the water

Becoming the first to use the new service, the crew at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour have already been put through their paces to complete Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Powerboat Intermediate, Advanced and Radar courses for maritime safety and expertise. The investment ensures they are well prepared to manage a wide range of situations on the water. 

Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: “The staff at most marinas have Powerboat Level 2 but we wanted to raise the bar, as safety and professionalism are at the heart of everything we do. Our team members are being trained to an advanced level, so they can offer the best customer service and advice.” 

She added: “Mooring your boat can become a struggle for some berth holders and our new tidal-berthing training will help remove that nervousness and enable customers to learn new skills in a small group of friendly, like-minded people in our new boatshed facilities.”

Rob McInally, Principal at Associated Marine Training, said: “We’re delighted to work with Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour to provide a bespoke tidal‑flow and tidal‑berthing course tailored specifically to the Beaulieu River. Helping boaters feel confident and safe on the water is essential to get the most from this unique environment.”

While only bespoke tidal training is currently being offered, the new facilities may support additional learning opportunities in the future as demand develops.

All courses will be delivered in the waterfront offices created by the recent redevelopment of the boatshed. For opportunities to relocate your marine-based business to one of the most desirable marinas on the South Coast see www.beaulieuriver.co.uk/boatyard-redevelopment.

For more details about the courses, prices, or to book, call the yacht harbour team on 01590 616200, email harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk or visit the Associated Marine Training website at www.associatedmarinetraining.com.

IRC Championships 2026: Full UK Racing Season Confirmed

 

The RORC Rating Office has published the full calendar for the 2026 GBR IRC Championships and the IRC European Championship.

The season runs from May to September with events across the UK and neighbouring waters.

The campaign starts in May with the IRC Bristol Channel Championship. The event is split across two weekends at Portishead and Cardiff.

Next, the International Paints Poole Regatta hosts the IRC Southern Championship and the IRC European Championship. Strong entries are expected from the UK and overseas.

Also in May, the IRC Scottish Championship takes place from Tarbert on Loch Fyne. It forms part of the Scottish Series run by Clyde Cruising Club.

A new event for 2026 is the IRC North West Championship at Liverpool Yacht Club. Organisers say it adds a fresh regional title to the calendar.

In July, the IRC East Coast Championship is scheduled as part of Ramsgate Week. Later in August, the IRC Northern Ireland Championship will be raced on Belfast Lough, hosted by Carrickfergus Sailing Club.

The IRC South West Championship follows at Royal Torbay Yacht Club. Organisers expect competitive fleets at both venues.

The IRC National Championship will be held in Dartmouth from 27–30 August as part of Dartmouth Week. Hosts Royal Dart Yacht Club say the event should attract a strong fleet.

September concludes the season with two titles decided over the same weekend. The IRC Welsh National Championship will be raced in Cardigan Bay during the Celtic Regatta.

At the same time, the IRC Channel Island Championship will be contested at the Jersey Regatta. Both events round off the 2026 season.

Offshore racing also features in the programme. The IRC Double Handed National Championship includes the Cowes–St Malo race in July and the Cherbourg–Cowes race in September, drawing double‑handed teams from both sides of the Channel.

Seldén Sailjuice Winter Series - Rockstars rev up for Rutland

 

There's a stellar line-up for this weekend's Tiger Trophy at Rutland Water Sailing Club. Predicting a winner would be a fool's game...

The John Merricks Tiger Trophy at Rutland Water is looking set to be the most competitive yet in this season's Seldén Sailjuice Winter Series. After a break from recent events, Tom Gillard and Rachael Gray are back in their Merlin Rocket. But will they manage to dominate at Rutland as they have done at the first three events of the season?

Looking at the line-up gathering for this weekend's competition, they will have to be at the top of their game to win a fourth event.

Gillard and Gray will have to keep their rival Merlin competitors at bay, not least Castle Cove's Tom Ballantine crewed by Olympic kitefoil and 49erFX campaigner Maddy Anderson.

Elsewhere in the fleet there's Megan Pascoe in the 2.4mR singlehanded keelboat. A former World and European Champion in the class, she could do well if the wind is on the lighter side. On the long-range forecast the breeze was looking around 8 to 15 knots which might be a bit on the high side for Pascoe.

Meanwhile Selden's own Andy Tarboton, reigning Musto Skiff World Champion, takes the helm of an International 14 with Tristan Tomlinson pulling the strings at the front. The battle for fastest boat on the water could come down to Alex Adams in a foiling International Moth against Simon Hiscocks, the double Olympic medallist who's racing a foiling Switch this weekend.

And so it goes on. There are already 43 different classes entered, representing almost every aspect of dinghy sailing in the UK's hugely diverse small-boat universe.

Olympic silver medallist David Wilkins takes his usual role of principal race officer and heads up a team of keen and expert volunteers. The forecast is good and everything is lining up for a great weekend of racing across Saturday and Sunday.

The Saturday evening Dinner is informal this year and the meal is £16.00 for two courses and will start soon after the Six Nations Rugby match finishes on the big screen.

Henri-Lloyd continues its support of JOG and Generation JOG

 

Henri-Lloyd is continuing its long-standing commitment to the future of offshore and coastal sailing through its support of the Junior Offshore Group (JOG) and its youth-focused initiative, Generation JOG.

Founded in the 1950's, JOG was established to encourage smaller yachts to compete in high-quality but friendly coastal and offshore racing. Now it has over 770 members and regularly sees high numbers of participation for its racing, often with up to 100 boats taking part in its most popular events, making it one of the most active offshore racing communities in the UK.

In recent years, JOG has focussed on encouraging those under 30 to get more involved in racing, setting up Generation JOG. By organising a programme of coastal and offshore races, as well as training, networking, mentoring and social events, JOG reports that nearly 40 per cent of its membership is now under the age of 35, with approximately 20 per cent under 20 years old. Of these younger members, around 30 per cent are female, reflecting the programme's success in broadening participation and diversity within the sailing community.

For the past six years, Henri-Lloyd has supported JOG by providing prizes to Generation JOG sailors in recognition of race wins and other notable milestones. These rewards give younger and less experienced sailors access to premium marine apparel—helping them stay warm, dry and protected while racing in demanding offshore conditions.

For 2026, Henri-Lloyd is supporting a new initiative - the Henri-Lloyd JOG Week - which takes place at Dartmouth in July. This is in addition to 17 other races organised by JOG starting with the Lewmar Lonely Tower Race to Nab Tower on 21st March through to the end of season Cowes-Lymington race weekend on 26 and 27 September.

JOG's Racing Manager Martin Evans, says "Engaging enthusiastic young sailors is fundamental to the ongoing success of our club and our sport. By targeting the next generation, Henri-Lloyd's partnership provides valuable support to hundreds of sailors engaged in the Generation JOG initiative, meaning JOG Yacht Racing can look forward to a bright and exciting future."

Ross Partridge, Corporate Sales Manager at Henri-Lloyd says: "We're delighted to continue as a key partner with JOG and Generation JOG. As a brand and as an industry in general we should all be supporting new and younger sailors to take part in exciting, fun and challenging coastal and offshore events. Whatever the weather or the conditions, we want these sailors to benefit from the very best waterproof, windproof and breathable apparel, ensuring that they get maximum enjoyment from being on the water, whatever the conditions."

For details of JOG and Generation JOG races and events visit: myjog.jog.org.uk/programme or visit their Facebook page.

The Cruising Association honours Jazz Turner with The Duchess of Kent Trophy

 

History-making sailor Jazz Turner has been awarded the prestigious Duchess of Kent Trophy by the Cruising Association in recognition of her extraordinary record-breaking solo, non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation of the UK and Ireland.

Aged 26, Jazz set off from Brighton Marina at 1230 hours on 2 June 2025, sailing clockwise around the UK and Ireland. To prepare for her challenge, Jazz rebuilt her boat, FEAR (Face Everything And Rise) - a 1975 Albin Vega 27 - "from the ground up, total rewiring and everything else".

Jazz completed the 2,070-mile circumnavigation after 28 days and 50 minutes at sea, sealing her name in history as the first woman and first disabled person to complete the circumnavigation. Alongside the physical and mental demands of the voyage, Jazz also raised over £50,000 for charity.

Jazz lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a genetic, progressive condition which affects connective tissue throughout the body and requires constant and careful medical management. The condition means Jazz is unable to bear weight on her legs, her joints are prone to dislocation, and she faces ongoing risks, including fainting, seizures, and allergic reactions.

Commenting on the award, Robin Baron, President of the Cruising Association, said, "Jazz's courage, skill and determination represent a landmark moment for inclusive sailing. By pushing the limits of endurance and seamanship, she has inspired sailors everywhere to challenge assumptions about what is possible on the water and what can be achieved. Jazz is a true trailblazer, and the CA is immensely proud to celebrate her extraordinary accomplishment."

The Duchess of Kent Trophy is awarded to 'any sailor, not necessarily a member, who has achieved something exceptional in or around small boats.' Jazz's achievements embody this spirit, placing her among a distinguished list of past recipients, including Kirsten Neuschäfer, Jimmy Cornell, Pip Hare and Jeanne Socrates.

As Jazz was unable to attend the presentation in person, Fiona Slay accepted The Duchess of Kent Trophy on her behalf, awarded by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston at the CA's Flag Officers' Lunch on 17 January 2025 at CA House, London. The Trophy was subsequently presented to Jazz at her home.

Fiona shared a message from Jazz, saying, "I am sorry I can't be with you today, but my condition has worsened significantly since November. Completing the circumnavigation of the UK and Ireland was a massive challenge with many highs and lows, but it really made me realise that anything is possible with effort, perseverance, and support from family and the sailing community.

"We are now setting up The Jazz Turner Foundation, and all the money I raised not yet spent, will go into that charity, to help other disabled sailors.

"Thank you again for this award and your support."

Follow Jazz Turner:

www.projectfear.uk

www.facebook.com/jazturnersailing

www.instagram.com/jazturnersailing

www.linkedin.com/in/jazz-turner-disabled-sailor

www.youtube.com/@jazturnersailing

Horning Boat Show 2026

 

The Eighth Horning Boat Show is to take place on Saturday 2nd May 2026 starting at 10.00am until 4.00pm.

There will be exhibitors showing Luxury Motor Cruisers and Sailing Boats, plus many other Marine Products and services, also Norfolk Broads Holiday companies together with Charity Stalls together with some Classic Cars on Show.

Horning Sailing Club will be putting on their Discover Sailing Event which has proved very successful in past shows.

There will be other craft exhibitors in the Horning Village Hall on the upper exhibition area, also to feature the famous Horning Boat Show Auction, all raising funds for our local good causes.

Free entry to the show, Free Parking at BeWilderwood and shuttle buses to take visitors to the show for a small charge.

We have a Food Court offering Speciality Food and Drinks plus all our local Pubs and eateries in our lovely Horning Village.

A great day out for all the family.

Find us on www.horningboatshow.com or tel: 01692- 630892

Getting ready for the 2026 UK J/24 Season

 

Following the hugely successful 2025 J/24 World Championship, hosted by the UK in Plymouth, the UK J/24 Class Association is heading into 2026 with real momentum.

The Worlds showcased the strength of the UK fleet, the quality of our race management and venues, and the welcoming atmosphere that defines J/24 racing in this country. That energy and enthusiasm now carry directly into an exciting 2026 season.

The J/24 remains one of the most competitive and sociable one-design keelboat classes in the UK. Close racing, welcoming events and an active fleet make it a great class whether you're aiming for silverware or simply want high-quality racing with a friendly atmosphere ashore.

2026 UK J/24 Class Events:

18-19 April - Spring Cup, Saltash

23-25 May - International Paints Regatta, Poole

13-14 June - Fowey Trophy, Fowey

18-19 July - PPSA Regatta, Plymouth

22-24 August - National Championship, Torbay Royal Regatta

TBC September - Autumn Cup, TBC

This calendar offers a mix of classic venues and flagship regattas, building toward the National Championship at the Torbay Royal Regatta and rounding off the season with the Autumn Cup.

We Can Help You Get SAILING !!

To make joining the fleet as easy as possible, the UK J/24 Class Association owns two class boats that are available for new or developing teams  to use at events during the season. This is an ideal way to experience J/24 racing without the commitment of owning a boat from day one.

To register your interest, simply:

Contact Class Secretary Lorna Graham at lornagraham83@hotmail.com, or

Get in touch directly with any member of the class committee, who will be happy to help.

Whether you're an experienced keelboat sailor, transitioning from dinghies, or returning to the class, the 2026 season promises competitive racing, great venues and a supportive class community. We look forward to welcoming you on the start line.

Wheels in motion for 2026 Melges 24 World Championship in Harbor Springs, Michigan USA

 

Online registration is now officially open for the 2026 Melges 24 World Championship, set for September 19-26, 2026, as the global Melges 24 fleet prepares to converge on Harbor Springs, Michigan.

Hosted by Little Traverse Yacht Club (LTYC), the International Melges 24 Class's premier event is now accepting entries, with the Notice of Race published and available on the official event website.

Interest in the championship has been strong from the outset. With teams already entered prior to the publication of the Notice of Race, it is an early indicator of the enthusiasm building for what is widely anticipated to be one of the standout regattas on the international sailing calendar. With registration now open, organizers encourage teams worldwide to secure their place on the starting line and begin planning for this exceptional event.

Nestled on the shores of Little Traverse Bay, Harbor Springs is widely regarded as one of the finest sailing destinations in the United States. The venue combines classic Great Lakes elegance with exceptional racing conditions, featuring warm freshwater, clean air, and a steady, reliable breeze. The 2026 World Championship has been designated a Vakaros RaceSense event, with LTYC's world-class race management utilizing mark-set boats and race courses positioned in close proximity to the club. This configuration ensures efficiency on and off the water, with minimal transit time for competing teams.

Ashore, sailors and guests will enjoy full-service club amenities within a scenic, walkable downtown known for its dining, shopping, green spaces, and family-friendly atmosphere. The surrounding region also offers parks, trails, golf, and a wide range of outdoor recreation, making the championship an attractive destination for teams, families, and supporters.

"The International Melges 24 Class cordially invites all teams to register now and plan to race at the 2026 World Championship in Harbor Springs," said Duncan Stamper, incoming International Melges 24 Class Chair. "This will be one of the most memorable Worlds in class history—a true destination regatta set against the stunning backdrop of Little Traverse Bay. With the Notice of Race published and entries open, now is the time for teams to commit. This event is not just for the sailors; families and friends are welcome to share in the experience, and this venue is perfect for that."

New Marina and Yacht Haven Planned for Loch Lomond

 

Duck Bay Hotel and Restaurant on Loch Lomond has unveiled plans for a marina and yacht haven on the site.

Duck Bay owner Alan Cawley said the proposals represent a significant step forward for the business and for Loch Lomond’s leisure economy.

The new Loch Lomond marina is part of a long-term growth strategy, with work expected to progress this year.

Cawley says: “Anyone who knows our people, our culture and our standards will understand that there will be no compromise. I am committed to creating the most glamorous and prestigious marina and yacht haven ever seen on Loch Lomond.”

Cawley revealed that he has already received early expressions of interest to secure prime berths within the proposed development.

Alongside the marina, Duck Bay plans to deliver a new coffee bar extension featuring floor‑to‑ceiling glazing to maximise views across the loch. Under approved plans submitted by Clark Design, the extension will be constructed using stone piers and matching window details. The development will be delivered in tandem with a relocated Jetty Bar

“I believe it will set a new benchmark for leisure and lifestyle on Loch Lomond. A marina naturally becomes a place to gather — vibrant, elegant and full of atmosphere. For the boating community, it will offer seamless access to everything Duck Bay has to offer, from Duck Bay Hotel and Restaurant and Windows on the Loch to Bobbys at the Bay and our signature Jetty Bar.”

Cawley continues: “My wife Lynn and I are immensely proud to own such an iconic venue as Duck Bay. We recognise that every business – even one as successful as Duck Bay – must continue to reinvest, evolve and aspire to ever-higher standards.”

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Four weeks to go until the 2026 Dinghy and Watersports Show

 

Featuring dinghy sailing, windsurfing, wingsurfing, foiling and paddleboarding, however you like to get afloat, we've got you covered. Join us for interactive family fun, watersports displays and demos, live coaching sessions, hundreds of boats and the biggest names in marine retail all under one roof.

RYA Members can access a complimentary ticket worth £22.50 for one or both days, while kids aged 15 and under go free with an accompanying adult.

Book your tickets NOW