The Round the Island Race is an annual yacht race that takes place around the Isle of Wight, off the south coast of England. This iconic event, organised by the Island Sailing Club, is set to take place on Saturday, June 7th, 2025 The race covers a distance of approximately 50 nautical miles (93 km) and starts and finishes in Cowes.
First held in 1931, the Round the Island Race has grown to become one of the largest mass participation events in the UK, often described as the fourth largest after the London Marathon and the Great North and South Runs. The race is unique in that it allows amateur sailors to compete alongside professional and Olympic athletes on the same course.
The race typically begins early in the morning, around 6:30 AM, to take advantage of the ebbing tide. Participants are divided into different classes, with starts staggered at 10-minute intervals to manage the large number of boats. Most 36-foot cruisers complete the race in 7-10 hours, depending on weather conditions and sailing ability.
The race course presents various challenges for sailors, including:
Experienced sailors recommend breaking the course into four strategic parts to navigate these obstacles effectively.
The Round the Island Race attracts a diverse fleet, from family cruising boats and small day sailors to professional racing yachts. In recent years, the event has seen participation from over 1,100 boats and 8,000 competitors. The atmosphere is described as electric, with spectators able to watch from various vantage points along the Isle of Wight coastline.
For many participants, the race offers a unique combination of adventure, competition, and the opportunity to spend time with family and friends in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
As the 2025 race approaches, sailors and spectators alike are gearing up for another exciting event in the British sailing calendar.
Cowes, Isle of Wight
https://www.roundtheisland.org.uk/
