A Fresh Format for a Timeless Favourite
The Cowes Classics Regatta is back for 2025 with a refreshed format and an open invitation for entries. Organised by the Royal London Yacht Club in Cowes, in partnership with the Royal Thames Yacht Club, the regatta will run from Friday 30 May to Sunday 1 June 2025 and promises to retain the spirit and elegance that sailors and visitors alike have come to cherish.
After listening closely to feedback from previous competitors, the event has been reshaped to better reflect modern demands while preserving many of its well-loved traditions. The result is a compact, three-day schedule that balances competitive racing with the social and cultural elements that make this regatta a true highlight of the sailing calendar.
Refined racing across the Solent
On the water, the action will be focused and thrilling. The one-design classes are set to enjoy up to eight races over the weekend, while boats competing off the shoreline will take part in a seven-race series. Most of the races will be run from committee vessels across multiple course areas, with flexibility to use the shoreside start line if needed. Race formats will be tailored to the preferences of individual fleets, offering a mix of windward/leeward and laid mark courses.
Early entries have already been received from the Cowes-based Daring fleet, Squibs, Bembridge and Fife one-designs, and even a Sparkman & Stephens yawl. The 6-Metre class has also shown strong early interest, continuing its enthusiastic support from recent years.
- Early entries so far include:
- Daring class
- Squibs and Fife one-designs
- Sparkman & Stephens and 6-Metre yachts
As always, the regatta will be run in a Corinthian spirit, offering high-quality competition without losing its charm and camaraderie.
Onshore celebrations and classic charm
Away from the racecourse, shoreside events will begin on Thursday 29 May with a pre-regatta supper at the Royal London Yacht Club, which also serves as the Royal Thames Yacht Club’s shoreside base. The weekend will feature the traditional post-race tea and cakes, the ever-popular Kendalls Fine Art drinks reception, and a sparkling regatta dinner sponsored by Nyetimber.
Sunday brings the now-iconic Cowes Classics Day on the Parade. This free event will showcase vintage cars, including the rare 1986 Bentley Continental once owned by businessman Asil Nadir, and an array of classic yachts moored at Trinity Landing. Highlights include the last known functioning Royal Navy Pinnace, making for a memorable sight for visitors and sailors alike.
- Shoreside highlights include:
- Opening drinks reception hosted by the Dartmouth Gin Company
- Regatta barbecue on Friday and dinner on Saturday
- Prize-giving reception at the Royal Yacht Squadron on Sunday
- Sunday’s Cowes Classics Day with classic cars and yachts
Supporting Cowes Sailability
Cowes Sailability, a charity offering sailing opportunities to people with disabilities and long-term conditions, has been named the official charity for 2025. Their involvement reinforces the regatta’s inclusive spirit and commitment to the wider community.
With the Notice of Race now published and bookings open, competitors are encouraged to secure their place early. All racing documentation, event booking forms, and dinner reservations can be found online at
www.cowesclassicsregatta.org
The Royal London and Royal Thames Yacht Clubs extend a warm welcome to all sailors to become part of this exciting new chapter in the Cowes Classics Regatta story.