Round the Island Race
The iconic Round the Island Race is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Regularly attracting over 1,200 boats and around 10,000 sailors, it’s one of the UK’s biggest sports participation events.
What's On
The iconic Round the Island Race is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Regularly attracting over 1,200 boats and around 10,000 sailors, it’s one of the UK’s biggest sports participation events.
The 2026 race - a 50-nautical mile circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight - is taking place on Saturday 11th July, with entries now open.
Competitors arrive from all over the globe to take part, with the event bringing together world-renowned sailors alongside families and first-time racers.
The fleet start from the famous Royal Yacht Squadron at Cowes, before heading west to The Needles.Continuing around the Island, yachts pass St Catherine’s Point and Bembridge Ledge Buoy, heading into the Solent and back to Cowes to finish.
For competitors, the race offers a unique perspective of the island, while spectators can enjoy the event from a host of popular vantage points.
This year, the Island Sailing Club, which organises the race, has teamed up with The Albion in Freshwater, The Dell Cafe in Ryde, Bembridge Coast Hotel, and The Wellington in Ventnor, to offer official race venues.
The Race Village will also be open Friday 10th July - Sunday 12th July on The Parade in Cowes, with a full weekend of entertainment on offer.
To enter or to find out more, visit: roundtheisland.org.uk
Getting There
Spectators will get a good view of the start and end of the race in Cowes.
From Southampton: Hop on our Red Jet service to West Cowes and arrive in the hub of the action in just 30 minutes.
By bus: Catch the Southern Vectis no. 1 from Newport to Cowes. Plan your journey here.
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