The Contessa Regatta is back this June and promises a packed programme both on and off the water.
Early bird entry for the event is now open, with organisers anticipating a significant increase in entries as sailors mark the 60th anniversary of the Contessa class, celebrating the launch of the Contessa 26 in 1966.
To mark the occasion, lead sponsor Jeremy Rogers Boatyard is introducing a bespoke spirit, Contessa Gin, with all regatta entrants receiving a complimentary bottle. Those who enter before Tuesday (13th May) may be eligible to have their bottle personalised with their boat’s name.
Simon Rogers, Managing Director of Jeremy Rogers Limited, has said:
“We are so happy to be sponsoring another all Contessa regatta for the 60th Anniversary year and are hoping for a record turnout.
“I personally am looking forward to meeting lots of new faces, and some familiar ones. I’ll be joined by my brother Kit on Assent and we are looking forward to a great event, both on and off the water.”
The gin has been developed in collaboration with Lymington-based Eight Two O Spirits and features botanicals sourced from the New Forest.
Racing will take place across five races in the Western Solent from 26th to 28th June.
Organised by the Royal Solent Yacht Club. The regatta will feature four divisions, including the Contessa 32, Contessa 28 and Contessa 26 classes, alongside a mixed fleet of larger Contessas racing under NHC.
In addition to the on-water competition, a full schedule of shore-based entertainment is planned across the weekend in partnership with sponsors Jeremy Rogers Limited and Maison Louis Jadot. Hall Hunter Partnership is also supporting the event, providing summer berries and sponsoring the Club’s automated racing marks.
While the main fleet competes in three races on Saturday, non-racing Contessa boats and crews are invited to take part in a sailing treasure hunt, alongside the wider social programme.
Festivities begin on Friday evening with a drinks reception on the Club’s beachfront lawn, followed by a Rum Punch Party, supper and live music on Saturday night.
Sunday’s programme will conclude with 2 further races before the prize-giving ceremony at the Club. Class winners will each receive a magnum of Louis Jadot, while the overall regatta winner will take home a jeroboam.
John Poyner, Commodore of the Royal Solent Yacht Club, has said:
“We are delighted to host this much-loved event once again here in Yarmouth, where the Solent provides a uniquely challenging and rewarding arena for racing.
“The Contessa fleet holds a special place in the heart of this Club. These beautifully balanced, seaworthy yachts built by regatta sponsors, Jeremy Rogers Limited, represent not only fine design but a community of sailors who return year after year with enthusiasm, camaraderie, and a healthy appetite for competition. It is a pleasure to welcome you all.”
Organisers say they are looking forward to welcoming competitors and visitors alike for another classic edition of the Contessa regatta on the Isle of Wight.
