Cornish sailing organisation to celebrate landmark with 40-day voyage

 

A Cornish sail training organisation is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its vessel with a landmark youth expedition around the English Channel in 2026.

The Morvargh Sailing Project, based in Fowey, will commemorate the four decades of its 57-foot Bowman yacht, Helen Mary R, with a 40-day voyage named ASPIRE40.

The expedition, which will take place in 2026, will see eight young people on board for the duration of the 40-day voyage around the English Channel.

The same crew will navigate through France, the Channel Islands, Southern England, and London, taking on roles from steering to night watches and cooking at sea.

They will experience everything from tidal crossings to open-water passages, learning about the challenges and rewards of life at sea.

Alex, a young sailor from a previous expedition, said: "Sailing with Morvargh has changed my life for the better and has got to be the best experience of my life."

ASPIRE40 is set to be one of the longest continuous youth sail training expeditions in UK waters.

Matt Barraud, director of Morvargh Sailing Project, said: "Forty years on, Helen Mary R still changes lives at sea.

"6,000 young people have stood on her deck since 1986, discovering resilience, purpose, and self-belief.

Slovenia Sailing Adventure

The Slovenian coast is small but beautiful, and it’s perfectly positioned for a week-long sailing adventure that can include Slovenia, Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula, and possibly northern Italy. Below is a 7-day sailing itinerary that mixes coastal cruising, short hops, and rich onshore experiences.

⚓️ 7-Day Sailing Adventure: Adriatic Charm — From Slovenia to Istria

Starting port: Portorož or Izola, Slovenia

Best season: May–September

Vessel type: 35–45 ft sailing yacht or catamaran

Total distance: ~120 nautical miles (moderate pace)

Day 1 – Embark in Portorož / Izola (Slovenia)

Sail: Local waters & Piran Bay (10 nm round trip)

Onshore:

Explore Piran, a stunning Venetian-style town with narrow alleys, pastel façades, and the Tartini Square.

Walk up to St. George’s Church for panoramic sea views.

Optional: visit Sečovlje Salt Pans Nature Park (bike or taxi).

Overnight: Anchor or berth in Piran harbor.

Dinner tip: Fritolin pri Cantini (fresh seafood, local wine).

Day 2 – Piran → Umag (Croatia)

Sail: ~15 nm south across the border.

Onshore:

Clear into Croatia in Umag marina (easy customs process).

Explore Umag’s old town and cycle the Savudrija Lighthouse route along the coast.

Optional wine tasting at Kozlović Winery inland (short taxi ride).

Overnight: Umag marina or nearby anchorage.

Day 3 – Umag → Novigrad → Rovinj

Sail: ~30 nm

Onshore (stop in Novigrad):

Quick swim and lunch stop in Novigrad, a small fishing town with great seafood.

Onshore (Rovinj):

Wander the cobbled streets of Rovinj, one of Croatia’s most photogenic ports.

Visit St. Euphemia’s Church for sunset views.

Optional evening kayaking tour around Rovinj’s islands.

Overnight: Rovinj harbor or ACI Marina Rovinj.

Day 4 – Rovinj → Brijuni Islands National Park

Sail: ~12 nm

Onshore:

Explore Brijuni National Park, once Tito’s private island retreat.

Rent bikes or golf carts to tour Roman ruins, a safari park, and lush pine forests.

Swim in pristine coves with turquoise waters.

Overnight: Berth at Veli Brijun port (inside the national park).

Day 5 – Brijuni → Pula (Croatia)

Sail: ~8 nm

Onshore:

Visit Pula’s Roman amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world.

Explore local markets and craft beer bars in the old town.

Optional: guided tour of Kamenjak Nature Park (20 min taxi) for cliff jumping or snorkeling.

Overnight: ACI Marina Pula.

Day 6 – Pula → Umag or Piran (return leg north)

Sail: ~45 nm (break into 2 legs if preferred)

Onshore stop suggestion:

Lunch and swim stop at Vrsar or Funtana.

Overnight: Umag or Piran, depending on weather and energy.

Day 7 – Return & Disembark (Slovenia)

Sail: ~15 nm (if starting from Umag)

Onshore (if time allows):

Relaxed final lunch in Izola or Strunjan Nature Reserve hike before disembarkation.

⚓️ Bonus Tips

Rental bases: Portorož and Izola (Slovenia) 

Border note: Slovenia–Croatia crossings require passport checks; some charters handle paperwork in advance.

Weather: The Bora wind can appear suddenly; check local forecasts (METEO.hr).

Add-on options: If you want to extend, sail further south to Lošinj (great for dolphins and wellness spas).

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You.

WITH 12,000 RENTAL YACHTS ACROSS 60 COUNTRIES WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

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Russell-Cooke Silicon Cup Regatta celebrates its 25th anniversary by raising £50,000 for charity

 

The UK's largest charity and IT sailing event, the Russell-Cooke Silicon Cup Regatta, raised £50,000 in its 25th anniversary edition this autumn.

Shaun Frohlich, chair of the Russell-Cooke Silicon Cup Regatta, said: "Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the event was a proud moment and made all the more special by learning we had raised a recent record for our four fabulous charities.

"As we head into our next quarter century, we look forward to welcoming even more colleagues from the industry to one of the world's most iconic sailing grounds for an event that combines yacht racing with networking and fundraising for causes that truly matter."

The Silicon Cup Regatta takes place each September in The Solent, the strip of water between the south of England and the Isle of Wight. For the past three years, the event has been sponsored by Russell-Cooke, a law firm that advises a mix of commercial, regulatory, not-for-profit and private clients across a broad range of practice areas.

Participants come from across the IT industry and compete on matched yachts equipped with professional crews and all the gear required. This year's the event saw over 60 people completely new to sailing taking part. Strong winds and clear skies led to an exciting day of close racing and an event that will last long in the memory of all who took part.

The regatta has now set a long-term target to raise more than £1.5 million for good causes. Teams looking to get involved in next year's event can find out more about its history, logistics, and charitable work at :- thesiliconcup.com

Transat Café L'Or ULTIM course shortened

 

The ULTIMs have received an amendment from the Race Committee concerning a course modification. To ensure grouped arrivals in Fort-de-France, the ULTIM course will be shortened. Ascension Island is therefore out!

The small dots formed by the San Pedro and San Paolo islands, located on the edge of the geographic equator, will now be the final course mark, to be left to starboard. The ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) for the giant trimarans is now set for November 6 in Fort-de-France.

With speeds of 15 knots since the beginning of the night, the three leading ULTIMs are gradually leaving the Doldrums behind — the same zone that Maxi Banque Populaire XI entered last night, though it has been considerably less slowed down than its predecessors. “You always think it’s over, but there’s still quite a bit of activity. It’s much better than yesterday morning at the same time, but the whole thing lasted nearly 36 hours — it was a proper Doldrums,” reported Tom Laperche this morning aboard SVR-Lazartigue during the daily check-in.

The winds remain weak at the exit of the Intertropical Convergence Zone, and progress upwind is still quite slow for the ULTIMs, which received last night’s amendment from the Race Committee changing the course. To ensure grouped arrivals in Fort-de-France, the ULTIM course has been shortened. Goodbye Ascension Island! The small specks of San Pedro and San Paolo on the edge of the equator will now be the final course mark, to be left to starboard. The ETA for the large trimarans is now November 6 in Fort-de-France.

There are still 2,500 nautical miles remaining for Sodebo Ultim 3, Actual Ultim 4, and Maxi Banque Populaire XI to challenge the lead held by SVR-Lazartigue. The blue trimaran’s slowdown at the entrance to the Doldrums lasted only 4 or 5 hours, but Tom Laperche and Franck Cammas still lost about 50 miles in the process—and quite a bit of energy: “We were stopped for a while and had to maneuver a lot. The last few hours were easier, with larger gaps between cloud masses, and we were able to get back into our watch rhythm with Franck.” The fastest of the lot was Actual Ultim 4, which completely caught up with Sodebo Ultim 3, putting everything back in play.

Although the 200 miles separating the ULTIMs from San Paolo and San Pedro likely won’t change the rankings today, the 2,200-mile final stretch — “a wide, open section where nothing is guaranteed,” says Tom Laperche — looks set to favor new attacks. Downwind, the performance of the three leading ULTIMs is very similar, and SVR will lose the advantage it holds upwind. With four boats sailing at 100% of their potential, the battle will last until the end.

Find out more at :- www.transatcafelor.org 

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Rockshore / Bosun Bobs RS400 Winter Series at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club

 

The Rockshore/ Bosun Bob's RS400 Winter Series returns for its 19th Year at RNIYC!

Following the celebrations of 20 years of RS400 sailing at the royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, this season also marks the 19th running of the hugely popular RS400 Winter Series at Cultra.

The Series will run over eight consecutive Sundays, from 2nd November to 21st December, with racing starting at 1.30 each week. Generally consisting of three short races. Despite the cold conditions, this Format of racing is beloved, making this one of the biggest one design Winer Sailing events in Ireland.

Entries are expected to be 18 this year with some guest boats showing up for the Christmas Race on Sunday 21st December. Racing starts this Sunday at 1.30 RNIYC Cultra.

Enter now at :-  rniyc.org/sailingeventtickets/p/rs400springseries-kpth8

Grafham Water SC Welcomes Sailors for Winter Racing

 

Grafham Water Sailing Club is gearing up for another busy cold-weather season — offering sailors of all classes the chance to stay on the water and race through to spring.

With winter membership starting from just £110, Grafham provides an open invitation to dinghy, catamaran and windsurfer sailors who don't want to hang up their wetsuits when temperatures drop.

Located conveniently between Cambridge, Milton Keynes and Peterborough, Grafham Water is one of the UK's largest reservoirs, offering 1,550 acres of consistent breeze and open-water racing. The club is renowned for its large, competitive inland fleets — including ILCAs, Flying Fifteens, Solos, D-Zeros, Spitfires, F18s, A-Class Cats and RS classes — ensuring top-level competition across the board.

The Winter Series runs from 29 November 2025 to 31 March 2026, with three back-to-back races held each Sunday morning across four starts. The series is complemented by a Sprint Series — one Sunday each month in January, February and March — featuring five short, high-intensity races per day, and the traditional Christmas Pursuit Race followed by a festive club dinner.

Winter members also receive discounted entry to the Grand Prix on Sunday 4th January, along with access to Saturday coaching sessions and the ability to sail seven days a week.

Grafham is proud to be an inclusive community that believes sailing is for everyone. We promote diversity and strive to make the sport accessible to people of all backgrounds, ages, abilities, and experience levels.

Winter membership costs £110 for a single-hander (including boat park space) or £130 for a doublehander with two members. There is a 50% discount on these prices for under-25 year olds.

For full details and online entry, visit :- www.grafham.org

 email office@grafham.org, or call 01480 810478.

European Sailing Hotspots

 

We have sourced the information used in this article from several European travel guides and we also have considered the testimony of sailors who frequently travel around the coastlines and inland waterways of the region.

France is a top destination for European sailing, and it also hosts one of the most favored mooring spots in the sailing community. The breathtaking French coastline is just part of the story, as you can spend days or weeks exploring the country’s vast network of channels and rivers.

Paris is, of course, a favorite destination for tourists—maritime or otherwise. But there’s much more to see in the area, and there’s sure to be something for everyone.

A notable example is Omaha Beach, where the Allies began one of the most vicious battles of World War Two. The scars of war remain in the form of massive shell craters and busted-up concrete bunkers, which still dot the landscape as if the battle happened yesterday.

But if war isn’t quite your speed, there’s another French coastal destination that might suit you well. It’s the isle of Corsica, and it’s the gorgeous birthplace of famed French leader Napoleon. The isle sports crystal-clear water, beaches, and ancient architecture.

Who can think of a sailing holiday in Europe and not picture Italy? The country, located on the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most beautiful sailing destinations in Europe. The food, the music—it’s all there and ready for you to immerse yourself into.

Much of Italy hasn’t changed much in centuries. Of course, that also includes Venice. The waterlogged city of Venice is the most famous canal city in the world, and it has remained largely untouched for years.

And though you can’t technically take your boat through the canals, you can hire a local to row you through for an authentic experience. And if Venice isn’t your speed, try the breathtaking Amalfi coast and its picturesque buildings. 

If you are looking for southerly warmth and endless history? Greece is the country to see, and there’s no shortage of either in the area. Greece is the cradle of western civilization, and the nation’s stunning ruins and beautiful scenery are unsurpassed anywhere else in the world.

The majority of Greece borders the water, which is great news for sailors. There are dozens of marinas and yacht clubs located around the country, including many ancient cities that are well worth exploring. The islands that surround the country are also the perfect Mediterranean holiday spots—out of the way and teeming with authentic Greek food and culture.

Don’t forget to check out the tiny island nation of Cyprus. This storied country is located in the eastern Mediterranean and home to some of the most beautiful sailing in the world.

Upon arrival to Cyprus, you’ll be greeted by ancient ruins of a once heavily defended territory. Beautiful Mediterranean architecture dots the landscape, and some of the most picturesque harbors await you along the way.

While in Cyprus, you can hang out on the yellow sand beaches and enjoy the sun or adventure off into the heart of the nation to view the landscape and historical sites. Cypress is also an ideal winter sailing destination, as the weather remains warm and favorable year-round.

Portugal is the cork capital of the world and one of the most breathtaking European sailing destinations. Portugal is located on the western border of Spain, and the coast spans most of the country. This southerly paradise is also famous for its warm weather and beautiful coastal mooring locations.

The rocky shoreline of Portugal is famous for its unique rock formations and long, sandy beaches. The unique architectural style in the country resembles that of Spain, though it has a Portuguese touch that’s easy to distinguish.

While in Portugal, be sure to check out some of the beautiful coastal sites of Lagos and Praia Dona Ana. You can enjoy the crystal clear waters from your boat or Moor to explore the colorful and historic hillside towns.

Would you like help planning your next trip?

Please let us know about your sailing experiences and where you're planning to go by using our Contact Form on this Blog, with your requirements to receive immediate help and assistance and using our Vast Knowledge and Experience to Help and Guide You.

WITH 12,000 RENTAL YACHTS ACROSS 60 COUNTRIES WHICH ONE WILL YOU CHOOSE?

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50th Anniversary edition of the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race

 

The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) is delighted to announce that the Notice of Race for the 2026 Round Britain & Ireland Race has been published and online entry is open from 3 November 2025. Invited entries include monohulls racing under IRC for the overall win, multihulls, IMOCA and one design classes such as Class40.

The race will start from Cowes, Isle of Wight on Sunday 9 August 2026, marking the return of one of the world’s most challenging and prestigious offshore events.

An Epic Course Around the British Isles & Ireland

First run in 1976, the Round Britain & Ireland Race takes competitors on an 1,805-nautical mile circumnavigation of the British Isles, leaving all islands and rocks, including Muckle Flugga at the northern tip of Shetland, to starboard. Starting and finishing in Cowes, the course demands relentless endurance, navigating notorious headlands such as Land’s End, St Kilda, and Fair Isle, with tidal gates, shifting weather systems, manmade obstructions and exposed offshore stretches testing crews to the limit.

Fifty Years of Offshore Legend

2026 marks the 50th anniversary edition of the race, a true modern classic that has seen some of sailing’s most celebrated campaigns. From record-breaking trimarans to corinthian double-handers, past editions have showcased determination, seamanship and the spirit of adventure that defines offshore racing.

Since 2006, the race has benefitted from the title sponsorship of Sevenstar Yacht Transport, whose invaluable support has been fundamental to the event’s success. The longstanding partnership has run its course. The RORC thank Sevenstar for their longstanding support and would be delighted to hear from new sponsors and partners for the Round Britain & Ireland Race.

RORC Racing Manager, Steve Cole, commented: “The Round Britain & Ireland Race is one of the ultimate tests in offshore sailing. Its mix of coastal challenges and exposed ocean passages makes it both unpredictable and unforgettable. With the Notice of Race now published, we’re looking forward to welcoming an exceptional fleet in 2026.”

Ullswater Open Winter Series gets under way

 

Despite the day dawning cold and wet with a discouraging weather forecast, Ullswater Yacht Club's open winter series got off to a successful start on Sunday 26 October.

An all-class handicap fleet of 16 boats of members and visitors soon warmed up in the 10 to 15 kt south-westerly, with three back to back races, each comprising two laps of a 0.6 mile windward leeward course via the Club start-finish line.

Keith Lockey and Paul Adams in their VX One were able to pull away downwind to win the first race, while Andy McAlea sailing an ILCA 6 won the second. The strengthening breeze favoured the asymmetric boats in third race, which was won by the 49er of Matty and James Lyons. Consistency counted though, and Jon Abbatt and Chris Mulholland lead the series in their Flying Fifteen, with two second places and one third place. Results can be found at the Ullswater Yacht Club website.

But with a total of 21 races in series - with 3 races every Sunday until 7th December, first start at 11.00, there is everything to play for. Entry for the entire series is free for members and £40 for visitors.

Winter Dinghy Racing at Warsash SC

 

Warsash Sailing Club warmly welcomes visiting dinghy sailors who wish to take part in our Winter and/or Aussie Summer race series, which run on Sunday mornings over the Winter Period from November to March.

Races start at 10:30 with Fast/Medium/Slow handicap fleets. Courses are set in the environs of Hamble River, Southampton Water and The Solent depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Back ashore, breakfast baps and hot drinks are available for purchase from 09:00 while post-race, the bar will be open, and lunch can be ordered at our Shore House HQ while you enjoy panoramic views of the Hamble from our newly refurbished River Room.

Visiting Sailors have use of the Club facilities on the Sunday(s) of the races during the series and on the Saturday before the start of the series to rig their boat ready for the next day.

Visiting sailors who have entered our Winter Series will be permitted to leave their boat in our boat pound at Warsash for the duration of the series they have entered.

The dates are:

Winter Series (8 weeks approx.); From Sunday 2nd November - Sunday 21st December

Break for Christmas

Aussie Summer Series (13 weeks approx.); From Sunday 4th January - 29th March

Fees Winter Series (approx. 8 weeks) Aussie Summer Series (approx. 13 weeks)

Single Hander £80 - 8 weeks      £130 - 13 weeks

Double Hander £104  - 8 weeks   £169 - 13 weeks 

To enter the Warsash SC Winter Series and/or Aussie Summer Series, please complete the form at :-

 warsashsc.org.uk/visitor-winter-sailing