With just 1 month to go until the Round the Island Race returns for its 2026 debut, more than 600 boats have already signed up to take part in the iconic Isle of Wight event.
The annual race, which takes place on 11th July, sees competitors from around the world tackle the famous 50-nautical-mile course around the Isle of Wight.
Starting from the Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes from 07:30, the race attracts everyone from world-renowned sailors to families and first-time competitors.
Dave Atkinson, Race Director said:
“As always, we’re very excited about the race and really looking forward to welcoming everybody.
“It’s a very special day to be part of, so whether you’ve taken part before or are thinking about it for the first time, we would love you to be there with us.”
Organised by the Island Sailing Club, the annual spectacle traditionally sees hundreds of boats head west from Cowes towards The Needles before continuing around the south of the Isle of Wight, passing St Catherine’s Point and Bembridge Ledge Buoy before returning to the Solent and finishing back in Cowes.
The current monohull course record was set by Mike Slade aboard ICAP Leopard in 2013 with a time of 3h 43m 50s. The multihull record belongs to Ned Collier Wakefield, who completed the course in 2h 22m 23s aboard Concise 10 in 2017.
Dave added:
“The race itself is different each year but regardless of the conditions, we all enjoy a good day’s sailing.
“The camaraderie and companionship of the fleet going round make it very special, so don’t delay, get signed up and enjoy the Round the Island Race 2026 with us.”
Away from the water, entertainment will be available throughout the weekend in an expanded Race Village on Cowes Parade.
The dedicated Race Village, which runs across 3 days from 10th – 13th July, will feature live music and entertainment, while spectators will also be able to watch the action from a number of official viewing venues across the Isle of Wight.
Entries remain open until 8th July, with standard entry fees available until 24th June.
Further information and entry details can be found here.
