As the world's oldest and largest yachting regatta, Cowes Week is a highlight of the sporting summer on the south coast.
More than 60,000 people are set to gather on the Isle of Wight for seven days of racing on the waters of the Solent, alongside the famous on-shore social scene.
The regatta is celebrating its 200th anniversary, with special races and events held to mark the bicentennial.
More than 630 yachts are taking part in this year's Cowes Week races, with more than 5,000 crew members participating.
They will be taking part in seven days of yacht racing in a range of classes and boat types, from the Grand Prix giants of International Racing Certificate (IRC) class one, to the historic gaffers and one design keelboat classes.
Other longstanding classes include Flying Fifteens, Redwings, Seaview Mermaids and Sunbeams.
Alongside the racing, there are events staged to help develop youth sailing - including the UK Sailing Association's free Try Sailing sessions - and Women's Day on Tuesday, which encourages women to take the helm.
The new Bicentenary Gold Cup will be awarded to the best performing boat over the first three days, to mark the 200th anniversary of the first Cowes Week.
Races are traditionally started by the cannon fired at the start and finish line outside the Royal Yacht Squadron.
The Regatta Village, on Cowes Parade, is one of the best places to watch the class starts each morning.
Racing is scheduled to start from 10:00 or 10:30 depending on the day.
Follow the races on the official app, which has course information, results and standings.
A short walk along the Green in Cowes provides great viewing and the boats can get very close to the shore - wind and tides depending.
In the afternoon, head along the Esplanade towards Egypt Point to watch the fleet as they finish.
To get even closer to the racing action, a spectator boat heads out three times a day. Bookings can be made online.
No comments:
Post a Comment