Highcliffe Sailing Club Icicle Series 2026

Alan 'AJ' Johnson has passed away

 

A familiar name to many over the last 60 years in the UK dinghy racing scene, AJ was a passionate dinghy racer across many classes. His racing career started in 1963 at the age of 16 when he came 13th out of 250+ at the GP14 National Championships. He became well known within the GP14 and Enterprise fleets winning the Enterprise National Championships twice, the Inland Championships three times, and the Masters Championships.

Throughout the years he tried his hand in a variety of classes owning at various points Herons, Hornets, Fireballs, Cherubs, Finns, Merlin Rockets and Lasers amongst others. Alan relaunched his championship winning Enterprise '19876 - Subsonic Winkle' from the 1970's in the early 2000's and enjoyed success in this 33 year old boat with his son Matt crewing.

He was also a regular with his original crew from the 1970's, David Garlick, in Squibs where he enjoyed the 'chess game' of this class. In 2012 he won the Squib National Championships and in 2014 he won the Squib National Championships, Inland Championships and Welsh Championships

After 60 years of competitive sailing Alan treated every day sailing as very special and believed that life is for living. He was a life member of Southport Sailing Club and South Caernarvonshire Yacht Club, and loved nothing more than lining up on the start line against friends.

He is survived by his wife Jane, who crewed for him in Enterprises in the 1970's, his 8 children Tracey, David, Kate, Nicola, Paul, Hayley, Matthew and Andrew and 13 grandchildren. Sailing runs in the family with four of his children having sailed across the Atlantic, two working in the sailing and watersports industry, and one having won World and European titles.

He would be extremely proud of the legacy he leaves behind and seeing the next generations follow his passion.

The funeral service will be held on Monday 2 February at 1pm at the West Lancs Crematorium in Burscough, with a reception at 2pm at Wrightington Hotel & Country Club.

Merle Nieuwland named Welsh Young Sailor of the Year

 

World championship gold medallist Merle Nieuwland from Cardiff Bay Yacht Club has been named Welsh Young Sailor of the Year. Merle claimed victory with helm Sabine Potter in the 420 female class at the 2025 Youth Sailing World Championships in Vilamoura, Portugal.

Finishing their four-year 420 career on a high as part of the 16-strong team representing GBR, their selection for World Sailing's pinnacle youth event followed on from them having claimed the national title in summer.

The Welsh Young Sailor of the Year trophy, which was historically presented annually, was last awarded in 2010 but rediscovered by the RYA Cymru Wales team while moving into a new office at Plas Menai last year.

Pathway & Events Officer Hatty Morsley said: "We are thrilled to once again be able to make this award to put outstanding Welsh youth sailors in the spotlight - and delighted to present it to Merle in recognition of her achievements in 2025. It's not every year that you are both a national and world champion!"

Receiving the award at Cardiff Bay Yacht Club while coaching other up and coming young sailors, Merle said that winning the Youth Sailing Worlds in the 420 class with Sabine was "a proper dream come true".

Merle, aged 18, is currently taking a gap year following A levels. She started sailing at the age of 8 and competed in the Optimist class for junior sailors before moving into the 420 doublehanded youth class as a crew, supported throughout by Welsh Sailing and squads alongside competing nationally and internationally.

Asked for any advice she might have from her own experiences for other aspiring sailors looking to maximise their performance, she said: "My top tips are when you go out on the water, it's about really having a purpose - train hard and have fun!"

Merle is now sailing in the 470 Olympic class and also plans to continue coaching.

Find out more about the junior and youth pathway in Wales! Visit the Welsh Sailing Hub and take a look at our Welsh Sailing / Hwylio Cymru Handbook [PDF].

Leadership Shake-Up at Royal Yachting Association

 

The Royal Yachting Association has announced a number of changes to its leadership as 2026 gets under way.

Nick Scott, previously the RYA’s director of racing, has been appointed director of sport to oversee the newly formed sport department, which encompasses sport development and racing.

In addition, former chief executive of RYA Wales, James Stuart, has been appointed director of corporate affairs.

Stuart, who previously served as director of legal, governance and integrity, will oversee the new corporate affairs department that will handle strategic, governance and regulatory matters.

Their appointments follow the recent departure of two directors from the RYA, namely former sport development head Rob Clark and director of external affairs Mel Hide.

Youth Icicle Series 2026 at Bough Beech Sailing Club

 

For the second year running, Bough Beech Sailing Club is hosting an Open Icicle series for youth sailors, as part of its main Frostbite Open throughout January and February. The opening two races were sailed in very light easterly conditions and attracted an impressive fleet of 56 boats, including a strong turnout from some Kent schools.

The fleet brought together sailors of widely differing experience. While some competitors were well-seasoned racers, for others this marked their first major open event. With such a large fleet crowding the start line, the experience would have been daunting, but both races got away cleanly at the first attempt, with most boats clearing the line within seconds.

Time constraints imposed by school schedules, combined with fading light, minimal wind and a wide range of boat speeds, meant that the first race was shortened to a single lap for the slower classes. The second race was set as a quick windward-leeward for all boats—although in the conditions it was more of a drift than a sprint. Even so, the opportunity to race in such a large and varied fleet proved a valuable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Race one was won by Sam Clancy and Harry Mitchell sailing a 420 (Bough Beech SC), with Emmanuel and John from Tonbridge School taking second in an RS200 after executing a perfectly judged pin-end, port-tack flyer at the start. Third place went to Edie Carter and Noah Sauven from Bough Beech, also sailing a 420.

Edie and Noah improved further in race two to take the win, with Sam and Harry finishing second. Third place was claimed by Charlie, another Tonbridge School sailor, sailing an ILCA 7.

Races three and four of the Junior Icicle series are scheduled for Saturday 31 January.

Peter 'Basher' Baines 1952 - 2026

 

Peter Baines, a much-loved and highly respected sailor and shooter from Hamble, has sadly passed away, leaving behind a sailing and shooting community that will feel his absence deeply. Peter was a familiar and cherished figure on the River Hamble for many decades.

Peter started racing with three generations of the Williams family crewing for Jim Williams in Claire de Lune, his son Ray in Astralita, and his grandson James Eric in his GP14 and then Merlins. James Eric was always asked by his Dad if he was sailing with the "little nipper" as he was so young and thin.

Known for his deep knowledge of sailing, steady seamanship, and unwavering respect for the sea, he earned admiration not only for his skill at sailing dinghies but keelboats, in particular the XOD in which he excelled. Peter would go on to win just about every X Class trophy at some stage including an incredible 5 Captain's Cups, the national championships of the Class held at Cowes Week each year.

Peter would go on to compete at the highest level in sailing including America's Cup campaigns. Whether racing, tuning boats or simply talking boats on the pontoon, Peter embodied the spirit of sailing that defines Hamble. He was a mentor to many younger sailors, always willing to offer calm advice, practical help, or a quiet word of encouragement. Peter helped with the Class Committee representing Hamble as divisional Class Captain, Chairing the Class technical committee and also as Class Official Measurer.

His passion for boats and the water was matched by his warmth, good humour, and forthright nature. For those fortunate enough to sail with him, Peter was a trusted companion whose presence brought confidence and enjoyment. Beyond sailing, Peter was a loyal friend and valued member of the local shooting community. He will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and the genuine interest he took in others.

A staunch member of the Royal Southern Yacht Club and the Hamble River Sailing Club, Peter leaves behind a family of friends who will miss him greatly. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the enduring maritime character of Hamble, where his name and memory will long be spoken with respect.

Fair winds and following seas Peter.

Round The Island Race 2026 – Early Bird Discounts

 

The countdown to this year's Round the Island Race is officially on. The iconic 50-nautical race around the Isle of Wight launches on Friday, January 23, with early bird discounts available for three weeks.

The race takes place on Saturday 11th July.

"The excitement and anticipation is really building as we approach the launch of Round the Island Race 2026," said Dave Atkinson, Race Director.

"We've been busy behind the scenes at the Island Sailing Club getting everything ready for launch, and now it's time to build the momentum ahead of the race in July.

"Whether you're a seasoned competitor or keen to take part for the first time, the race is open to all, so please join us and be part of a really special occasion."

Hundreds of boats are expected to feature in the annual spectacle, which starts at the famous Royal Yacht Squadron Line at Cowes, before heading west to The Needles.

The fleet continue around the Island, passing St Catherine's Point and Bembridge Ledge Buoy, before heading into the Solent and back to Cowes to finish.

By signing up early, competitors can take advantage of significantly discounted prices across boats of all sizes, starting from £140.

Entry fee prices will revert to the standard price on Friday 14th February.

A dedicated Race Village on Cowes Parade will be open throughout the race weekend, with live music and entertainment running across three days, from Friday 10th July.

For more details and to enter the race, visit www.roundtheisland.org.uk

Full Final | 2026 Oracle Perth Sail Grand Prix | 🇫🇷 v 🇬🇧 v 🇦🇺 | SailGP

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.

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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.