Gearing Up for the Plymouth Fastnet 500 'Must Do' Sailing Event of 2026

Anticipation is building as entries trickle in for the third edition of the Plymouth Fastnet 500, scheduled to take place on August 16, 2026. The race is proudly hosted by the Royal Western Yacht Club (RWYC) and helmed by its race director and Commodore, Adrian Gray. The Plymouth Fastnet 500 is rapidly becoming a sought-after racing event in the sailing calendar, attracting a growing number of mariners keen to test their mettle on its uniquely challenging course.

The race flag goes up at noon on Sunday, August 16. The ensembles of yachts glide past the first beacon, the Eddystone lighthouse, to Starboard, followed by the crossing of the Irish Sea post a strategic bypass of the Isles of Scilly and various ’no-go’ TSS zones. The climax is the port rounding of the iconic Fastnet Rock before a home-bound journey that ends at the original Fastnet Race finish line in Plymouth Sound.

In addition to its thrilling itinerary, the Race offers more pragmatic advantages. There’s no need to transfer equipment from start to finish, no passports required, less time off work, and more affordable berthing options compared to the Solent. These added attractions, coupled with high-octane racing, has an exciting array of participants signing up.

Entries are now open for mono and multihull yachts ranging in length from 27ft to 70ft. Classes are offered to solo sailors, duos, and fully crewed teams. Acceptable certificates include IRC VPRS and MOCRA Handicaps, and provision has been made for non-rated boats as well.

A common sentiment reverberates around the sailing fraternity: there is something uniquely special about Plymouth Sound’s maritime offerings, going beyond mere racing. Its magic keeps luring boats back on its waters. As the third edition of the Plymouth Fastnet 500 race prepares to ensnare sailors in its charm, the thrilling adventure through the southwest seas awaits with bated breath.