Sailors of all descriptions, young and old, newcomers and professionals, are gathering in Cowes for what promises to be another classic edition of the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race, which gets underway at 08:30 tomorrow (Saturday).
Gusts of up to 25 knots are expected at St Catherine’s Point, the Island’s southern extremity, giving the largest multihulls a chance of breaking Ben Ainslie’s record.
Ned Collier Wakefield, skipper of the giant MOD70 Concise 10 said:
“We had a great time on our practice day yesterday, sailing round the Island in 2 hours 40 minutes.
“For sure, tomorrow will be quick, but we don’t know yet if it will be record worthy conditions.”
Prince Michael of Kent has arrived in Cowes this evening ahead of starting tomorrow morning’s race at the Royal Yacht Squadron. He was met by local dignitaries at Trinity Landing shortly after 18:00.
Where to watch
| Vantage Point | Approx. times yachts will pass | How to get there |
|---|---|---|
|
COWES Start 
|
0830-1110 1230-2200 |
Via Ward Avenue, Baring Road & Castle Hill to the Parade and the Green either side of the Royal Yacht Squadron. |
| SCONCE POINT
|
1000-1230 | From Yarmouth, drive towards Freshwater. Turn right after 1/2 mile and follow signs to Fort Victoria. |
| THE NEEDLES
|
1030-1300 | From Freshwater or Totland follow signs to the Needles Car Park. Park and walk up West High Down to Needles Battery. Best view to south of Coast Guard Station. |
| CHILTON CHINE
|
1115-1430 | Situated on the cliffs near Brighstone is Chilton Chine (accessible from the Military Road). It has a terrific view of the boats as they sail by. |
| ST. CATHERINE’S POINT
|
1200-1600 | From Freshwater, Rookley or Ventnor go to Niton. Take loop road to Buddle Inn. Park and walk down cliffs by lighthouse. |
| VENTNOR
|
1215-1630 | Park on Cliff at West End of Esplanade. |
| BONCHURCH
|
1230-1700 | Take lane down to sea opposite Bonchurch pond. Take left turn and park in car park at bottom, which is best view. |
| CULVER DOWN
|
1300-1830 | From Brading, take Bembridge road. After 1 mile, turn right and follow sign for Culver (on a bend, and lane hairpins up!) |
| RYDE PIER
|
1400-2000 | From Ryde Esplanade, drive up pier and park at end. Parking for 1 hour. |
