Round-the-Island 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