Round the Island Race Articles
The race itself will be sailed on Saturday 11 July, when hundreds of boats — from family cruisers and club racers to seasoned offshore campaigners — will gather off Cowes to take on the iconic 50-nautical-mile lap of the Isle of Wight.
Organised by the Island Sailing Club, the Round the Island Race remains one of the world’s largest mass-participation yacht races, and one of the few where first-timers and veterans share the same tide, the same start line, and the same long day on the water.
© Michael Hodges
One island. One start. One unforgettable Saturday afloat
08-04-2026
There are yacht races — and then there is the Round the Island Race.
Few events capture the spirit of British sailing quite like this 50-nautical-mile lap of the Isle of Wight. From professional race teams and offshore campaigners to family crews and first-time competitors, the Round the Island Race is where experience, ambition and adventure all share the same start line.
Momentum from a memorable 2025 edition The announcement follows a stand-out 2025 race, widely regarded as one of the most successful editions in recent years.
06-03-2026
Honours to Zoulou, skippered by 84-year-old Peter Cunningham
09-06-2025
Good luck to all taking part in today's the Round the Island Race 2025, 7th June. Organised by the Island Sailing Club, this annual spectacle draws over 1,700 boats and 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races globally and the fourth largest mass participation sporting event in the UK.
07-06-2025