Few events capture the imagination and enthusiasm of both seasoned yachtsman and novices alike quite like the Round the Island Race. But what is it about this race that draws so many participants year after year and why does everyone love it so much?
The Round the Island Race boasts a rich history dating back to 1931. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of the most popular sailing events in the world attracting sailors from all corners of the globe. Hosted by the Island Sailing Club this race attracts thousands of participants and spectators.
Excitement builds as boats line up at Cowes, setting off in ten distinct waves, each separated by 10 minutes.The fleet heads west towards Yarmouth, on past the iconic Needles Lighthouse, then tracing the southwest coast of the Island until they reach St. Catherine’s Point. Next, across Sandown Bay, navigating around the Bembridge Ledge Buoy. In the final last stages of the race the boats pass No Man’s Land Fort, across Osborne Bay, and finally, triumphantly returns to the finish line at Cowes. The course spans over 50nm.
Part of the allure of the Round the Island Race lies in the challenge it presents. With unpredictable weather conditions, tidal currents, and strategic navigation requirements, the race demands skill, strategy, and resilience from participants. Whether competing for line honours or simply aiming to complete the course, sailors are drawn to the thrill of testing their mettle against the elements and pushing themselves and their boats to their limits.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the Round the Island Race fosters a strong sense of community among participants. Sailors come together to share their passion for the sport, exchange knowledge and expertise, and forge lasting friendships. Apres sail turns Cowes into one big party !
One of the most appealing aspects of the Round the Island Yacht Race is its accessibility to sailors of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a novice sailor embarking on your first offshore adventure, there’s a place for everyone. With multiple classes catering to different boat types and abilities, the race welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, democratising the sport of sailing and ensuring that anyone with a passion for the sailing can take part.
Chartering a yacht is the way to go and as an independent yacht charter company, we use our knowledge and experience to find the right boat for you, taking into account your needs, experience, and budget. We can also take care of all the logistics so you can just rock up and race! We have a range of charter options for the Round the Island Race 2024:
This incredible Grand Soleil 46 is a very special Racer Cruiser, with her sporty lines and stylish Italian design. She is a well equipped, very spacious & stunning yacht and a very competitive racer – all making her a highly desirable charter option for the Round the Island Race. More
The Farr 60 was designed as an exciting but easy to handle boat that would be competitive in all racing formats. She is very fast for her size with excellent handling ability and an emphasis on light-air performance with substantial downwind sail area. This would be an excellent yacht for any crew looking for a competitive and exciting Round the Island race and ready for all conditions that the Solent throws up! More
Built to win – the Sunfast 3200 provides effortless speed. Built using the latest technology to ensure the best strength-to-weight ratios, this boat is uniquely adapted to performance racing. Hair of the Dog is particularly impressive while sailing off the wind. This one is an excellent example and has been successfully raced on the race circuit before. She is well equipped and optimised and a full suit of North Sails all in very good condition! More
Benefitting from all of Jeanneau’s experience and technology, the Sun Fast 3600 is a racer-cruiser sailboat, enabling you to best your record in a race and to share sensations of speed and refreshing sea spray with friends and family. More
We have a wide range of options to choose from, from Grand Prix racing yachts and performance multihulls to racer cruisers, depending on your requirements and sailing experience.
Our yachts are available for whole-boat charter with a captain, or you can join a crew with a skipper and a first mate for some events. This is a great way to experience the yacht racing scene without any of the responsibilty or logistics involved.
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