For 2026, it was the turn of the UK to host the Wayfarer Class International Rally. This remarkable cruising event has run for 35 years, and the International Wayfarer Class Associations take turns to host. 2025 was in Denmark, 2024 Friesland, 2023 Ireland and 2022 France.
So it was that 30 Wayfarers from across Europe and the UK, plus sailors visiting from North America and Canada, congregated at Loch Lomond on 5th September for a week of fun filled Dinghy Adventuring, renewing long standing friendships, and creating new ones.
On the whole the weather played ball; this being Scotland some rain was to be expected, and was delivered, along with plenty of sunshine and a good range of wind strengths in which to explore the islands at the southern end of the Loch. The wind bends and gusts around the island, so a degree of concentration is required, but not enough to detract from admiring the stunning scenery which was the backdrop to the sailing, whichever way you looked.
Lunches were of the picnic variety, while the group shared several organised evening meals, enjoying the traditional dishes of Scotland, and other world famous Scottish beverages and spirits.
On the day when the winds didn't co-operate, sailors either enjoyed walking parts of the West Highland Way, which runs adjacent to the Loch, or visiting some of the many places of interest in the vicinity.
The week rounded off with a beautiful downwind sail from Luss back to Loch Lomond Waterfront, Balmaha, where the rally was based - a wonderful sailing memory to take away.
In 2027, the Rally is going to Lake Ontario, Canada, before visiting Hayling Island for 2028.
Adventuring Rallies are a staple part of owning a Wayfarer dinghy, and to find out more about how to take part, visit www.wayfarer.org.uk or follow Wayfarer Association on Facebook.
Thanks as always to our sponsors - Craftinsure, Rooster and Allen for helping out.
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