One of the UK’s leading classic sailing regattas is set to make a spectacular return to Falmouth this summer, with hundreds of traditional and modern classic vessels expected to take part in Falmouth Classics 2026.
Running from June 12-14, and held once again alongside the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, the event will transform Falmouth Harbour and Carrick Roads into a living showcase of maritime heritage, with racing, parades and shoreside festivities planned across the weekend.
Billed as the largest event of its kind in the UK for classic vessels – typically designed or built before 1976 and often wooden with traditional sail plans, alongside newer boats that faithfully replicate older designs – the regatta will feature everything from elegant classic yachts and working boats to pilot gigs, restored heritage craft and historically significant vessels.
Falmouth Classics has built a strong reputation for combining competitive racing with a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere, attracting both serious sailors and families looking to enjoy the spectacle. A full programme is planned, including multi-class racing in Carrick Roads, Falmouth Bay and the harbour, parades of sail, shoreside entertainment linked to the Sea Shanty Festival, and opportunities for visitors to explore the town’s rich maritime culture.
Ahead of and after racing, the classic fleet will be moored in the marina off North Quay, part of Customs House Quay, where they can be viewed up close. Around 10am on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the boats will leave their berths to assemble in Carrick Roads, off Falmouth Docks, before racing on the Friday and Saturday. On the Saturday, the pontoons on North Quay will be open to the public from 2.30pm to 5pm, while shore-based spectators will be able to watch the on-water action from vantage points including Pendennis Point, Trefusis Point at Flushing and St Mawes Castle.
A highlight of the weekend will be the Classic Parade of Sail on the Sunday morning, when participating boats and visiting craft from around Falmouth come together to parade from the docks towards Pendennis Castle, across to St Mawes Castle and back towards Mylor. This year’s theme is “above the water”, and many crews are expected to embrace it with colourful fancy dress.
There will also be a small boat parade on the water off the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club and Greenbank Hotel once Saturday’s racing has finished, along with an “all-comers” rowing and sculling event open to a wide range of craft.
“Falmouth Classics is more than just a regatta – it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, community, and the enduring appeal of traditional sailing,” said chairman Paul Hobson. “We’re excited to welcome competitors and visitors from near and far to experience the unique atmosphere that the Falmouth Classics and the Sea Shanty Festival creates.”
With its deep natural harbour, historic waterfront and long seafaring tradition, Falmouth offers a fitting backdrop to the event. Entries for participating vessels are now open, with further details on race schedules and visitor information due to be announced in the coming weeks.
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