With the summer season fast approaching it seems like a good time to review what’s going on in the area of the south coast this year, and maybe even get some dates in the diary?
RYA Sail Cruise – 12th – 18th June
The RYA organise this confidence building trip across the channel, arranging the route, berthing in each destination and the social activites, leaving the skippers and crews free to concentrate on and enjoy the sailing.
Find out more here www.rya.org.uk/newsevents/events/Pages/sailcruise.aspx
Round the Island Race – 25th June
The classic one day sailing race around the Isle of Wight is now in it’s 80th year. The race often attracts over 1,700 boats and 16,000 sailors making it the largest yacht race in the world, and the fourth largest participation sporting event in the UK.
The start of the race is always spectacular as the boats jostle for the start line at their allotted time.
Find out more here www.roundtheisland.org.uk
RYA Motor Cruise – 23rd – 29th July
Similar to the Sail Cruise, this RYA organised event aims to give confidence to motor boat skippers who want to experience a channel crossing, while support by an RYA Yachtmaster who remains within VHF range.
Find out more here www.rya.org.uk/newsevents/events/Pages/motorcruise.aspx
Cowes Week – 6th -13th August
Cowes Week barely needs an introduction having been an institution in the UK since 1826. It now stages up to 40 daily races for around 1,000 boats and is the largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world.
There is also plenty to do for spectators other than watch the racing, the fireworks and display by the Red Arrows on the Friday night are often highlights.
Find out more here www.aamcowesweek.co.uk
Fastnet Race – 14th August
The Fastnet Race starts at 11am on the day after Cowes Week ends, so many sailors and spectators will still be in town to watch the start off the Royal Yacht Squadron.
Find out more here fastnet.rorc.org
Bournemouth Airshow – 18th – 21st August
Incredible air displays, attractions and fantastic evening entertainment – don’t miss the the UK’s biggest free aviation festival this summer.
Find out more here www.bournemouthair.co.uk
Weymouth Monday Fireworks – August
No summer season in Weymouth would be complete without a series of spectacular firework evenings, which take place each Monday in August from a floating pontoon in Weymouth Bay.
Find out more here www.visitweymouth.co.uk/index.php?resource=204
