Cowes Week opens entries for Bicentenary regatta

by Cowes Week Ltd 13 Feb 13:48 UTC 1-7 August 2026

Racing at Cowes Week © Paul Wyeth / www.pwpictures.com

Cowes Week Ltd is pleased to announce that entries are now open for Cowes Week 2026, as one of Britain's most iconic sporting events prepares to celebrate its 200th anniversary on the Solent.

Founded in August 1826, when seven cutters raced off Cowes Castle, Cowes Week has grown into the world's largest and most famous Corinthian sailing regatta. Two centuries on, it continues to bring together sailors from across the globe for a unique blend of world-class racing, tradition, entertainment and summer social life on the Isle of Wight.

Super Early Bird entries are open until Friday 6 March, with Early Bird rates available until 3 May. Standard entries will remain open until Sunday 18 July. Racing will take place from 1-7 August 2026, with entries invited across more than 37 classes, ranging from classic Solent one-designs to high-performance modern yachts. Full details are in the Notice of Race which is available online.

Cowes Week has played a pivotal role in shaping modern yacht racing and remains accessible to crews from all walks of life - from first-time competitors and family teams to seasoned professionals and lifelong Corinthian sailors - united by a shared love of racing on the Solent. Remarkably, the regatta has only been cancelled three times in its history, during the two World Wars and the Covid pandemic, underlining its resilience and enduring appeal.

The Bicentenary regatta is expected to attract a bumper fleet, following growing entry numbers in recent years. Organisers have confirmed that entry fees will remain frozen at 2025 levels, ensuring the 200th anniversary remains accessible to as many sailors as possible. The event continues to rely on the dedication of around 200 volunteers from nine yacht clubs, preserving the Corinthian spirit at the heart of the regatta. Alongside racing, plans are under way for a year of unforgettable Bicentenary celebrations both on and off the water, bringing back old favourites and celebrating the regatta's history through exhibitions.

Bob Trimble, Cowes Week Chairman commented: "The strength of Cowes Week has always come from its community - the sailors, volunteers, partners and clubs who make the regatta possible year after year. As we open entries for our 200th anniversary, we have held entry fees at 2025 rates so that we can mark this milestone with as many boats as possible, celebrating both the sporting excellence and the spirit of camaraderie that define Cowes Week."

Racing starts on Saturday 1st August 2026, with the J70 class scheduled to be the first start from the Royal Yacht Squadron line at 10.30am. The final Prizegiving will take place on Friday 7th August.