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Wednesday, 25 February 2026

Bassenthwaite Sailing Club 2026 season


 

The 2026 season is just a few weeks away, and we're gearing up for one of our most exciting years yet. With a full calendar of open meetings, family weekends, and major championships, there's something for every sailor.


Mirror Spring Championship - Easter Bank Holiday. We're delighted to host the inaugural Mirror Spring Championship, sponsored by Ginger Boats. Held over the first club camping weekend during the Easter bank holiday, this promises to be a fun, family-friendly start to the season. Once again, the inflatable Catapults will be joining us on the the early May Bank Holiday weekend.


North West Junior Traveller Series. June 13-14, brings two days of junior racing as we welcome back the ever-popular RYA North West Junior Traveller Series, a highlight for young sailors across the region.


FF15 & GP14 Combined Open Meeting. July 18-19, two of our strongest club fleets, the Flying Fifteen and GP14, team up for a combined open meeting, once again sponsored by Impact Marine, sail makers and manufacturers of marine products.


Navigators & General Bass Week - Starts 1 August. Our famous Bass Week returns with a new sponsor, Navigators & General Insurance. This nine-day family regatta is a must-do event, offering racing for all ages and legendary socials. Entry opens on 1 April, and campervan/motorhome spaces usually sell out quickly.


Feva, Tera & Optimist Open Meeting - September 5-6. Just before the school term begins, we launch a brand-new combined open meeting for Fevas, Teras, and Optimists, a great way to round off the summer.


Great North Asymmetric Challenge - Season Finale. We close the year in style with the Great North Asymmetric Challenge on September 19-20, a staple of the northern sailing calendar and proudly sponsored once again by Trident UK chandlers.


All events are camping weekends, giving visitors the chance to stay on site and enjoy stunning views of Skiddaw, hopefully with a bit of Lake District sunshine and favourable winds.


For online entry, visit webcollect.org.uk/bass-sc or check the club website for full details.

Young people invited to apply to take part in ‘life changing’ Tall Ships Races


APPLICATIONS are being invited from young people aged 15 to 25 to take part in the Tall Ships Races 2026 this summer and enjoy a “life changing” experience.


Young people from anywhere in Shetland can apply, with a series of free taster day sails available on the local tall ship Swan to whet the appetite.


Stage one of the selection process will take place in April, with trainees learning the ropes aboard the Swan.


Sail Training Shetland said these taster days, sailing the waters around Shetland, “give a glimpse into life at sea and an understanding of what to expect from a longer sail training experience”.


Sixteen of these young Shetlanders will then go onto stage two, participating in an “inspiring, action-packed voyage” as they take part in race three of the Tall Ship Races 2026.


Sailing between Stavanger in Norway and Aalborg in Denmark these longer trips offer the opportunity for international travel, friendships and festivals in host ports.


Sail Training Shetland chair Melanie Henderson said: “Our taster days sails aboard Swan are very popular, and provide a great training experience for up to 40 young people.


“We will then select 16 of these trainees to take part in Race 3 of the Tall Ships Races 2026, with six young people being placed aboard the Norwegian tall ship SØrlandet and 10 aboard Shetland’s tall ship Swan.”


No sailing experience is needed to take part in either the day sails or the Tall Ships Races – “just a keen sense of adventure and a willingness to try something new”.


Trainees work under the guidance of the ship’s crew to learn a wide range of hands-on skills, such as watch-keeping, setting sails and other on-board domestic duties.


Those taking part in the Tall Ships Races will leave Shetland on 23 July to travel out to Norway and join their ships.


Trainees aboard the Sørlandet will have an 11-night experience, including travelling back to Shetland from Denmark. Those aboard Swan will sail back to Shetland with the ship, enjoying a slightly longer 14-night experience.


Sail Training Shetland said people taking part in the Tall Ships Races will meet young people from all over the world, and take part in a range of sailing and in port activities which promote Sail Training International’s values of international friendship and understanding.


Freyja Tait, who was placed aboard Sørlandet in 2025, said she would encourage anyone thinking about applying to do it.


“It is such an amazing experience, you make so many new friends and the experiences and memories will last a lifetime,” she said.


“I gained lots more confidence, independence and a new found sense of adventure. The entire voyage was life changing in so many ways. I would encourage everyone to apply, you won’t regret it.”


Sail Training Shetland has supported nearly 600 trainees to date, offering day sails free of charge and heavily subsidised Tall Ships Races experiences.


Experiences are delivered by a small volunteer committee and rely on strong local and industry backing to promote, manage and fund the programme.


This year’s supporters include Shetland Islands Council, Lerwick Port Authority, Sail Yell and main sponsor Arven Offshore Wind Farm.


More information is available online . Applications close at 5pm on Friday 27 March.

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Icicle Series 2026 at Bough Beech Sailing Club


 

The final day of Bough Beech SC's Icicle Series brought mild temperatures — and, at last, a proper breeze. Race Officer Pete Young, rumoured to have flown back from overseas especially for the occasion, set an excellent figure-of-eight course that used much of the reservoir and featured a long, fast reach, much to the delight of the Conventional fleet.


With gusts into the high teens, the Conventional turnout was smaller than usual. In the opening race Neal Gibson's RS300 disappeared into the distance, finishing a full five minutes ahead of Richard Lambert's Supernova. On handicap, however, neither could hold off a trio of Bough Beech ILCA 7 sailors: Duncan Lawson took the win, followed by Elliot Marks and Sergio Mesina. Lambert placed fourth and Gibson fifth.


The final race of the series again saw the RS300 and Supernova lead home on the water, but this time Lambert — making his first appearance of the series and reinforcing his reputation for excelling in a blow — took the win. Elliot Marks secured another second place, Gibson was third, Guy Marks and Sam Boniface brought their Wayfarer through to fourth, and John Hamilton (ILCA 7) finished fifth.


Conditions suited the Bough Beech 2000s in the Asymmetric fleet. In their first race Matt and Ollie Larkin, already frequent podium visitors this winter, took their first win of the series. Jonathan and Louisa Ching were second, with Jo Field and Annabel Larkin third. The Chings reversed the result in race two, winning ahead of the Larkins, while Paul Cullen and Verity Hopkins in an RS200 took third.


So overall Series honours in the Conventional fleet went to long-time series leaders Guy Marks and Sam Boniface (Wayfarer, Bough Beech SC). Matthew Wolstenholme and Sophie Wantling (Snipe) finished second, with Wolstenholme also managing an impressive third overall in the overlapping Sailjuice Winter Series. Thanks to his pair of seconds on the final day, Elliot Marks (ILCA 7) climbed to third overall.


Paul Cullen and Verity Hopkins (2000) secured the Asymmetric Fleet title with days to spare, allowing them time to hone their RS200 campaign. Jonathan and Hayden/Louisa Ching (2000) were second overall, with Matt and Ollie Larkin (2000) third.


Despite light winds on many earlier days, the series proved a success: 120 boats, more than a quarter of them visitors, completed at least one race. Over 80 race and shore duties were carried out by club members, all sustained by the club's ever-reliable galley.


Conventional Fleet top 10:



Pos Class Helm and crew Club Pts

1 Wayfarer Guy Marks & Sam Bonniface Bough Beech SC 18

2 Snipe Matther Wolstenholme & Sophie Wantling Bough Beech SC 27

3 ILCA7 Elliot Marks Bough Beech SC 28.2

4 Solo Patrick Ward Bough Beech SC 34.8

5 Solo John Clementson Chipstead SC 38

6 RS300 Neal Gibson Bough Beech SC 45

7 Solo Jamie Clementson Chipstead SC 51

8 ILCA7 Robert Gorrod Bough Beech SC 56.6

9 Solo Richard Southern Bough Beech SC 72

10 ILCA7 Duncan Lawson Bough Beech SC 73



Asymmetric Fleet top 10:


Pos Class Helm and crew Club Pts

1 2000 Paul Cullen & Verity Hopkins Bough Beech SC 12

2 2000 Jonathan & Hayden/Louisa Ching Bough Beech SC 17

3 2000 Matt & Ollie Larkin Bough Beech SC 27

4 RS400 Jonny Moss & Rich Sheridan Bough Beech SC 28.5

5 RS200 Mike Warwicker & Kate Fitzsimmons Bough Beech SC 29.3

6 RS200 Mike Green & Oscar/Isabella Pevensey Bay SC 39

7 RS200 Andrew Barnet & Lynne Ratcliffe Island Barn SC & Bough Beech SC 47

8 RS400 Mick & Sarah Whitmore Eastbourne Sovereign SC 53

9 RS100 Colin Hatton Bough Beech SC 78.4

10 RS200 Sebastian Robb & Lara Dyer Downs SC 82

Why the Osprey Class is Soaring


 

The Osprey rewards skill, teamwork, and a touch of daring. Whether you're a seasoned helm, a competitive crew, or someone looking to discover the thrill of high performance sailing, the Osprey offers a uniquely compelling ride.


The class is gearing up for one of its most exciting seasons yet — with the UK National Championships promising big fleets, tight racing, and the warm, welcoming community the class is known for.


The Osprey: A Dinghy That Delivers


The Osprey blends power and control, it rewards tactical thinking upwind and pure exhilaration downwind. Crews love the teamwork it demands; helms love the precision it offers.


It's a class that has embraced modernisation from epoxy hulls to refined rigging systems; the Osprey continues to evolve —reflected in the growing strength of the fleet.


The 2026 UK National Championships: Mount's Bay Awaits


Mount's Bay Sailing Club is one of the most spectacular venues in the country. From Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th September 2026, the fleet will gather for four days of competitive racing, stunning scenery, and the kind of atmosphere that makes a championship feel like a holiday as much as a regatta.


Mount's Bay is famous for its reliable breezes, clean waves, and postcard worthy backdrop — perfect for the Osprey. Expect racing that's tactical, physical, and unforgettable.


Ready to Join the Fleet?


If you've been looking for a class that offers exhilarating performance, tactical depth, and a thriving national scene, the Osprey should be at the top of your list. And there's no better way to experience it than by joining the fleet at Mount's Bay Sailing for the 2026 UK National Championships.


ospreysailing.org.uk


The class look forward to seeing the latest sail number 1387, which was on display at the 2026 RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show fresh from the builders, Hartley Boats, competing in the National Championship.


2026 Fixture List


April 11-12, Tata Steel SC

May 9-10, Poole - Southern Area Championships

May 23-24, Coniston

June 13-14, Tenby Yacht Club - Tenby Regatta

June 20-21, Castle Cove SC

July TBC, Mumbles Yacht Club

July TBC, Hayling Island Sailing Club

August 29-31, Burnham Yacht Club - Burnham Regatta

September 3-6, Mounts Bay SC - National Championships

October 10-11, Blithfield - Inland National Championships



Monday, 23 February 2026

RYA reveals the Portsmouth Yardstick Numbers for 2026


 

The RYA has announced that the Portsmouth Yardstick (PY) numbers list for 2026 have now gone live.


Used around the world, Portsmouth Yardstick is a system, based on a boats relative performance set against the other boats they race with. Fostering collaboration between clubs and working alongside the RYA, the easy-to-use approach enables clubs to run competitive racing at all levels without requiring boat measurements.


How does it work?


The RYA publishes a national list annually to provide a baseline for clubs to assign numbers to the boats racing within their fleets. Through PY Online, clubs can submit their race results to the RYA and use the tool to generate local numbers, reflecting how boats perform in their specific sailing conditions.


In order to score a PY race each boats elapsed time (time taken to sail around the racecourse) must be converted to a corrected time (time converted based on a boats PY number).


This is done by applying a simple correction calculation to each boats elapsed time.


In 2025, the Portsmouth Yardstick system saw its first major update in 30 years. Working with Sheffield Hallam University, the RYA widened the race-time threshold to include more data and shifted to a median-based calculation for greater stability. Improvements to PY Online have further strengthened accuracy and ease of use.


Submitting results


Over the course of the last year, the PY system has received a significant increase in data shared by clubs further strengthening the tool for use in grassroots sailing.


Looking to the year ahead, the RYA encourages clubs to continue submitting race results via PY Online, allowing further development of local numbers for closer competition. Without ongoing data submissions from clubs, the PY system cannot effectively operate and so it's vital all those who use the system ensure they get involved.


When submitting data to the PY system, clubs are also encouraged to review the online lists and use the class configurations created. Any class that doesn't appear on the list can contact technical@rya.org.uk


"We greatly appreciate the volume of data clubs have submitted over the past year as we continue working together to create an environment that makes racing easier for everyone. Over the last year, uploading information into the system has become even more straightforward thanks to the expansion of direct data submission options now available through Sailing Club Manager, Hal Sail and Sailwave. We look forward to supporting clubs further over the coming year and are excited to see the data insights for 2027, the official 75th anniversary of the PY system" Adam Parry, RYA Technical Manager.


Find more information at www.rya.org.uk/racing/portsmouth-yardstick

Entries for landmark 200th anniversary Cowes Week open


 

Sailors from around the globe are expected to converge on the Isle of Wight again this summer.


Entries are now open for the landmark 200th anniversary of Cowes Week, which will take place in August and mark two centuries of the world-famous regatta.


Bob Trimble, chairman of Cowes Week, said: "The strength of Cowes Week has always come from its community – the sailors, volunteers, partners and clubs who make the regatta possible year after year.


"As we open entries for our 200th anniversary, we have held entry fees at 2025 rates so that we can mark this milestone with as many boats as possible, celebrating both the sporting excellence and the spirit of camaraderie that define Cowes Week."


The regatta is expected to attract a bumper fleet, with organisers confirming that entry fees will remain frozen at 2025 levels to encourage broad participation.


Racing will take place from August 1 to 7, with more than 37 classes invited, ranging from classic Solent one-designs to modern, high-performance yachts.


The event’s Notice of Race is now available online and provides full details for competitors.


The J70 class will open the racing on August 1, starting from the Royal Yacht Squadron line at 10.30am.


The final prizegiving will be held on August 7.


Cowes Week continues to appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors, from first-time competitors and family crews to professionals and lifelong Corinthian racers.



Sunday, 22 February 2026

Last chance for early bird entries for historic 2026 Royal Escape Race


Sailors are being urged to secure their place in the 2026 Royal Escape Race, with early bird entry pricing closing on 28 February 2026 for one of the South Coast's most distinctive offshore challenges.


Entries are open for the historic cross-Channel yacht race, which departs from Brighton's Palace Pier and finishes in the Normandy port of Fécamp on Friday 22 May 2026. Organised by Sussex Yacht Club (SYC), in partnership with Société des Régates de Fécamp, the Royal Escape Race brings together a diverse fleet of yachts and crews from across the South Coast and beyond. Early bird entry offers discounted rates, with packages including race entry, moorings in Fécamp for the duration of the event, and live race tracking.


Founded in 1977, the Royal Escape Race commemorates the dramatic escape of King Charles II in 1651 following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. After weeks evading Parliamentary forces, the future king fled from Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex aboard the coal brig Surprise, landing safely in Fécamp. After the Restoration, the vessel was renamed HMY Royal Escape, giving the race its enduring name. Over nearly five decades, the event has grown into one of the South Coast's most iconic offshore races, attracting both experienced competitors and crews taking on their first cross-Channel passage.


Sussex Yacht Club welcomes sailors of all experience levels. The course offers an accessible introduction to offshore racing for novice crews, while still presenting tactical and navigational challenges for seasoned racers.


Robin Stevenson, Commodore of Sussex Yacht Club, said: "We're delighted to be taking entries for the 2026 Royal Escape Race and encourage sailors to take advantage of the early bird offer while it's still available.


"This event is truly special - blending the thrill of offshore sailing with centuries of local and national history. Whether you're racing, supporting, or watching the fleet set off or arrive, this year's Royal Escape Race creates a fantastic spectacle, carrying forward an extraordinary story that began on our shores more than 370 years ago."


The 2026 Royal Escape Race is supported by sailing and outdoor clothing brand, Musto, who is helping to ensure the continued success and growth of this unique celebration of history, seamanship and community. The Sussex Yacht Club encourages businesses that want to get involved in this year's race to get in touch to discuss the various sponsorship packages that are available.


To enter the 2026 Royal Escape Race or find out more, visit 

www.sussexyachtclub.org.uk/royal-escape-race

Elite One Design - What's in a name?


 

On February 10th 2026 the Elite Class began an exciting new chapter with RS Sailing agreeing a handover of the manufacturing rights, enabling the Elite Class to move forward independently.


Launched in 2004 by RS Sailing, the Elite is a three-person 7.4 metre (24ft) keelboat designed for the 21st century by Phil Morrison with a brief to create a modern version of the classic racing sailboat in the spirit of the X One Design, Sunbeam or Swallow. It is a strict one design class, ensuring close and competitive racing.


While the original group of owners were waiting to see the prototype and for delivery of their boats there was much discussion of many things; exact specifications, colours, and of course, the name. RS had mainly given their boats numbers but with some exceptions, and so a name was always a possibility.


Many ideas were put forward, some possibles and some not at all useable. For many months ideas went backwards and forwards but there were no real favourites.


Two of the original groups of owners had owned various Lotus cars over the years and in a chance discussion about various of these they both agreed about the prettiest ever Lotus, possibly the prettiest ever car of any marque was the Elite from the fifties. Anyway, that was the Eureka moment and RS agreed.


At the same time, syndicates were thinking up names for individual boats and for a short time we all managed to include the letters El in the names but that didn't last beyond the Hayling boats. As a result of the need to think up individual boat names one of the things that happened during the waiting for boats period was that there were many social events, we even held a golf day before anyone had sailed a boat. Dinner parties were even held to decide between 'Fidelity' and 'Infidelity' (as a boat name!).


Fast forward 22 years and the discussions on choice of name began again. Shall we retain our identity or take the opportunity to reinvent ourselves? A few people felt the name was 'elitist', whilst others liked the fact that the name had a 20 year heritage. Hayling Island Sailing Club often had four Olympians club racing, is that 'elitist' or does that show that top sailors want to race this 'cracking' keelboat?


We settled on Elite One Design, a recognisable name which clearly describes what we are. We are proud of our RS pedigree and we look forward to many more years of competitive one-design small keelboat racing.


If you would like to find out more about us and where we sail then see www.elite1d.org

Saturday, 21 February 2026

Cyprus is a Mediterranean island known for its stunning beaches, rich history, diverse culture, and warm, sunny climate.


 


An  itinerary for Sailing around Cyprus that blends beautiful coastal sailing with on-shore cultural, natural and culinary experiences. The trip below assumes you’re starting/finishing in Larnaca or Limassol, both popular bases for charter yachts, and uses a mix of scenic anchorages and key towns to visit ashore.



🛥️ 7-Day Cyprus Sailing + On-Shore Activities Itinerary


Day 1 — Start in Larnaca / Limassol


Sail departure & settling in

Arrive, check-in and provision your yacht at Larnaca Marina or Limassol Marina.

Short sea trial and easy sail in nearby waters.

On shore: Explore the marina promenade, cafés, or old town; enjoy a relaxed dinner by the water.




Day 2 — Larnaca → Cape Greco / Ayia Napa


Sail: East along the coast

Highlights:

Anchor at Konnos Bay or Ayia Napa Marina.

On shore: Visit Cape Greco National Park with dramatic cliffs, sea caves and scenic trails.

🌊 Optional: Join a local catamaran or snorkelling cruise around Blue Lagoon, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.




Day 3 — Ayia Napa → Protaras


Sail: Short hop up coast

Highlights:

Anchor off Fig Tree Bay, one of Cyprus’s most famous beaches with clear water for swimming and water sports.

On shore: Explore Protaras village, enjoy beach bars or rent paddleboards/kayaks.






Day 4 — Protaras → Famagusta Bay / Ancient Sites


Sail: North or slightly up coast

Highlights:

Drop anchor (or tie up if permitted) in Famagusta Bay.

On shore: Visit ancient city ruins at Salamis and wander through Famagusta’s historic old town — rich Roman and medieval heritage.




Day 5 — Famagusta Bay → West Coast (Akamas Region)


Long sail: Head west toward Paphos/Akamas Peninsula

Highlights:

Anchor near Blue Lagoon (Akamas) — stunning turquoise waters and great snorkelling.

On shore: Explore walking trails and hidden coves of Akamas National Park — excellent for hiking and nature photography.




Day 6 — Akamas / Paphos Exploration


Sail/Anchor: Stay on the west side

Highlights:

In Paphos, go ashore and visit:

The archaeological park (mosaics & ancient ruins).

Paphos Castle and local tavernas on the marina front.

Alternatively, explore Coral Bay or small coves for swimming.




Day 7 — Return to Larnaca or Limassol


Sail: Make your way back east

Highlights on way:

Optional stops at Pissouri Bay or Governors’ Beach for a final swim/snorkel.

Finish in your starting marina, rig down and enjoy a celebratory dinner ashore.






🌟 On-Shore Activity Ideas

Here are some optional experiences you can weave into your ports/anchorages:


🏖️ Beaches & Nature

Nissi Beach – vibrant beach with shallow water and beach bars near Ayia Napa.

Cape Greco Sea Caves – great for hiking and photography.



🏛️ Culture & History

Ancient Salamis ruins and Famagusta old town — Roman amphitheatre and Gothic churches.

Paphos Archaeological Park — UNESCO-listed site with ancient mosaics.



🍷 Food & Town Life

Cyprus is renowned for fresh seafood, meze dining and village tavernas — great experiences after sailing days.

Explore seaside cafés or local wine tasting in Limassol or Protaras.


🧭 Tips for Planning

Best season: May–October for calmer seas and warm weather.

Ports & marinas: Most stops have marina berths or suitable anchorage with good protection.

Flexibility: Weather and winds may shift plans — so stay adaptable with alternate stops.


Would you like help planning your next trip?

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Friday, 20 February 2026

GP14 season ahead of the Worlds kicks off with the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club Spring Series


 

As anticipation builds toward the GP14 World Championships on Belfast Lough this August, the 2026 GP14 season gets off to a flying start with the RNIYC Spring Series. Beginning on 8 March and running for six weeks (with a short Easter break), the series marks the first major event in a packed and exciting calendar.


Already, 25 boats have expressed interest, with the Notice of Race now published on the RNIYC website. Now in its third year, the Spring Series continues to attract top Runners and Riders eager to sharpen their skills on the same waters that will host the GP14 Worlds later in the season.


Hot on the heels of the Spring Series, RNIYC will host the O'Tiarnaigh Challenge on 25-26 April. Another consistently popular event, it is expected to attract around 35 boats. With gate starts planned for the fleet, the weekend will serve as a valuable dry run for the World Championships.


In June (6-7June), the focus shifts slightly up the coast as County Antrim Boat Club hosts the Ulster Championships. Strong support is anticipated, including several competitors travelling from Southern Ireland.


While Belfast Lough features heavily this year, Howth Yacht Club will also play its part, hosting the Leinster Championship on 4-5 July. Many Northern boats are expected to make the trip south, continuing their preparations for August's main event.


The rest of July provides a short pause in the racing calendar after Howth, allowing teams time for final boat preparations before the build-up begins again with the Championship of Ireland, hosted by Carrickfergus Sailing Club on 1-2 August. Located just across the Lough from RNIYC, Carrickfergus is expected to welcome over 60 boats, including early arrivals from the international fleet, offering a superb opportunity for top-level racing ahead of the Worlds.


Then comes the main event: the GP14 World Championships, hosted by RNIYC from 8-14 August. In a staggering display of enthusiasm, entries reached the 100-boat cap within just seven days of the Notice of Race and entry release. A further 21 boats are currently on the waiting list should the cap be increased. The RNIYC organising team is actively exploring options to accommodate additional entries, with further updates expected in the coming months.


With five major events on Belfast Lough and one in Howth, 2026 promises to be a hugely busy and exciting year for GP14 sailors with everything to play for, and perhaps even a new World Champion to be crowned. Exciting times ahead!

B14 UK class looking ahead to Pathfinder Homes European and Global Championships 2026


 

Pathfinder Homes to sponsor 2026 B14 European and Global Championships in Royal Torbay Yacht Club, Torquay, Devon


The B14 Class Association has confirmed Pathfinder Homes as title sponsor for the Pathfinder Homes B14 European and Global Championships, set to take place in Torquay UK from 17-26 June 2026.


The 2026 event marks a major milestone being the 40th anniversary of the B14 class, which first hit the water on Sydney Harbour in 1986. Designed by skiff innovator Julian Bethwaite, the B14 was a game-changer for high-performance sailing and still looks as sharp today as it did four decades ago.


The Royal Torbay Yacht Club, a venue with a rich pedigree of hosting international regattas, will stage the championships. Competitors can expect classic Torbay conditions and a full week of racing alongside a packed social calendar to mark the class's 40-year legacy.


The Notice of Race has now been published and entries are open. Charter boats are also available — contact the B14 Class Association for details.


The UK B14 Class will be on show at the RYA Dinghy & Water sports Show 2026 in Farnborough, stand L38 where visitors can get a close look at the boats, meet B14 sailors, and check out the new carbon fibre boom. The updated rectangular boom section offers improved control, reduced weight, and enhanced performance and will become class-legal from July 2026.

UK Nacra 15 Class Association at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show


 

Are you a Junior or Youth sailor thinking about your next class?

Do you like to sail FAST?

Are you looking for a friendly fleet with plenty of opportunities to attend International events?

Do you like different race formats: short course, long course and distance racing?

Do you want to race in a World Championship in the UK in 2026?


If the answer to any, or even better all, of these questions is YES please come along to see us on Stand A16 at this weekend's Dinghy Show! We'll have current class sailors on hand to tell you all about the Nacra 15 and you'll be able to sign up for one of the forthcoming Demo Days at Weston SC (Southampton) or Mountbatten (Plymouth).

If you're not attending the Show please sign up for a demo.


With good used boats available to buy in the UK now and a fantastic 2026 race programme lined up culminating in the Plymouth Worlds there's never been a better time to join the class!



www.nacra15.co.uk/getting-started/for-sale

nacra15worlds.com

Thursday, 19 February 2026

XOD Class Association set for the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show


 

The XOD Class Association will be exhibiting at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show 2026 on stand C42.


On display will be Thom Board's beautifully restored Lucrezia X140. Lucrezia has a brilliant racing record especially in the hands of Ado Jardine who won the coveted Captains Cup in her in 2003. Ado recently paid Lucrezia a visit and was delighted to see her looking so splendid. On the stand will be Class experts with multiple Captain's Cup winner John Tremlett amongst others able to give advice.


At its last AGM the Class approved sitting four on the deck with an aim to encourage younger and more female sailors. The Class also approved an improved spinnaker design hopefully making it easier to set. 2026 is the Cowes bicentenary year, and the home of the Captain's Cup. After just a few days of entries being open, we have 17 boats entered already.


With Club racing in Poole, Lymington, Yarmouth, Hamble and Itchenor, together with the open Traveller's Series, there is something for everyone.


To find out more, visit us at the Show or on our website at xonedesign.org.uk