COWES WEEK
Dating back to 1826, Cowes Week is the world’s oldest sailing regatta, and one of the Island’s most historic events. Take advantage of our great travel offers, valid for the duration of the regatta, 27 July to 3 August 2024:
- 15% off vehicle ferry travel
- £12.90 Red Jet day return
- £21 Red Jet period return
What's On
Attracting competitors from all over the world, Cowes Week is a rite of passage for any sailing enthusiast and a real celebration of the sport. For those not taking part on the water, dedicated event areas and the local town offer a plethora of bars, great places to eat, and live entertainment and music during the week.
Every day at Cowes Week offers something different and the Regatta Village on the Parade is one the best places to sit and soak up the atmosphere, just 80m from the start and finish line at the Royal Yacht Squadron with the famous Cowes Week cannons starting up at 10.30am each morning to get the racing underway.
A short walk along the Green in Cowes provides great viewing and if the wind and tides allow, the boats can get really close to the shore where the crew keep a sharp eye out for the rocks below! Check out the Spectator Guide for the best places ashore to watch the racing. For those wanting to get closer to the racing action, a spectator boat heads out three times a day and bookings can be made via the website.
The RNLI and the Tall Ship Youth Trust (TSYT), Cowes Week’s two charities for 2024, will also be on The Parade, hosting various activities in their shared marquee. Challenger, one of the TSYT’s 72ft vessels will be moored on Trinity Landing showcasing all that this amazing charity offers. You can try and get sea ready wearing a full kit of the RNLI’s gear and visit the Yarmouth All Weather Lifeboat on Sunday and Wednesday.
Throughout Cowes Week the RNLI are running a silent auction to raise funds with some amazing prizes up for grabs! The winners will be announced on the last day of Cowes Week.
There will be lots of entertainment on The Parade and Cowes Yacht Haven where live music starts from 1pm daily.
Sunday 28th July is Family Day when the High Street, The Parade and the Yacht Haven will be a hive of activity and entertainment. Look forward to workshops by the New Carnival Company and a performance by The Starlight Academy U12 Show Team. There will be a climbing challenge on the Tall Ships Youth Trust boat on Trinity Landing and the Yarmouth ALB will also be there between 11am and 3pm. It's going to be a great day out for all the family.
Northwood House is also providing a varied activity and entertainment programme throughout the week with tree climbing available on Family Day and on Thursday 1st August. The Classic Boat Museum will be open at the other end of the High Street all week, and Osborne House in East Cowes is always worth a visit.
Some highlights to look out for. Donate to the TSYT and climb Challenger’s mast on Sunday 28th July with what will be great views from the top if you make it. Red Funnel are proud to be the presenting partner to Light the South in 2024, a national arts trail of original Lighthouse sculptures. Visitors can also look forward to a display of mini lighthouses in the High Street which have been designed and decorated by 4 Island Schools.
See the Cowes Week website for full details.
Terms and Conditions
Vehicle Ferry: Valid for a vehicle ferry crossing between 27 July and 3 August 2024, with up to 7 people (additional passenger rates available) in a car. Subject to availability. Conditions: Not valid with any other Red Funnel offer or concession, including standard Travel Card holder discounts. Journeys must begin in Southampton. Valid for new bookings only. We reserve the right to withdraw this promotion without prior notice. Standard conditions of carriage apply. Offer available online only.
Red Jet: Valid for a day-return trip or period return taken between 27 July and 3 August 2024, on any sailing between Southampton and West Cowes. Journeys must begin in Southampton. Carriage is subject to availability and is on a first come first served basis. Note: It is not possible to pre-book specific sailing times with these tickets. Offer available online only.
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