Rush of early entries for the Taittinger Royal Solent Yacht Club Regatta 2023

 Last year, 190 boats raced in the Western Solent over the weekend of the Taittinger Royal Solent Yacht Club Regatta, based in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight. Just two weeks ago, registration opened for this year's event, running from Friday 14th July to Sunday 16th July, and already 114 teams have entered the regatta, taking advantage of the event's substantial, early bird discount available until 29th May.

The successful format for the regatta, combining racing with a busy onshore social schedule, has been further improved for 2023. On the water, all boats will have a minimum of two races on Saturday and a single race on Sunday with classes representing an historic timeline of yachting evolution from X One Design, Yarmouth One Design and IRC Classic Cruisers and IRC Swan, through to modern IRC racing divisions.

On shore, the regatta's broad range of entertainment has new features. Katie Davies, Taittinger RSYC Regatta Chair, explains: 'The regatta is of course not only about the racing, but about great company and lots of fun off the water too.' As usual the regatta opens with the Champagne Taittinger Reception on the RSYC's waterfront lawn. 'We hope to see as many of you as possible partaking in a glass or two of champagne' says Davies.

While the Royal Solent Yacht Club caters for crews, family members and supporters throughout the day from pre-race breakfast to supper, there is much more on offer: 'New for Saturday afternoon, live music will be playing at the RSYC,' says Katie Davies. 'There'll also be a pop-up Gin Bar and a Champagne Bar as well as hot snacks available for all crews to refuel after a busy day on the water.'

For many, the regatta's social highlight is the Saturday night event held in the grounds of a landmark, waterfront property adjacent to the RSYC. 'The legendary Towers Party will provide live music, dancing, a spectacular firework display and food and bars,' Davies continues. 'An evening not to be missed!' Competitors can purchase Towers Party tickets online. Tickets will also be available to purchase in person from the Royal Solent Yacht Club front office from 15th May.

On Sunday afternoon following the final race, the regatta's focus is the prize-giving at the RSYC. Courtesy of the title sponsor, each class winner will receive a bottle of Champagne Taittinger with the overall regatta winner presented with a Champagne Taittinger Jeroboam.