Last chance for early bird entries for historic 2026 Royal Escape Race

Royal Escape Race 2024 © Sussex Yacht Club

Sailors are being urged to secure their place in the 2026 Royal Escape Race, with early bird entry pricing closing on 28 February 2026 for one of the South Coast's most distinctive offshore challenges.

Entries are open for the historic cross-Channel yacht race, which departs from Brighton's Palace Pier and finishes in the Normandy port of Fécamp on Friday 22 May 2026. Organised by Sussex Yacht Club (SYC), in partnership with Société des Régates de Fécamp, the Royal Escape Race brings together a diverse fleet of yachts and crews from across the South Coast and beyond. Early bird entry offers discounted rates, with packages including race entry, moorings in Fécamp for the duration of the event, and live race tracking.

Founded in 1977, the Royal Escape Race commemorates the dramatic escape of King Charles II in 1651 following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. After weeks evading Parliamentary forces, the future king fled from Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex aboard the coal brig Surprise, landing safely in Fécamp. After the Restoration, the vessel was renamed HMY Royal Escape, giving the race its enduring name. Over nearly five decades, the event has grown into one of the South Coast's most iconic offshore races, attracting both experienced competitors and crews taking on their first cross-Channel passage.

Sussex Yacht Club welcomes sailors of all experience levels. The course offers an accessible introduction to offshore racing for novice crews, while still presenting tactical and navigational challenges for seasoned racers.

Robin Stevenson, Commodore of Sussex Yacht Club, said: "We're delighted to be taking entries for the 2026 Royal Escape Race and encourage sailors to take advantage of the early bird offer while it's still available.

"This event is truly special - blending the thrill of offshore sailing with centuries of local and national history. Whether you're racing, supporting, or watching the fleet set off or arrive, this year's Royal Escape Race creates a fantastic spectacle, carrying forward an extraordinary story that began on our shores more than 370 years ago."

The 2026 Royal Escape Race is supported by sailing and outdoor clothing brand, Musto, who is helping to ensure the continued success and growth of this unique celebration of history, seamanship and community. The Sussex Yacht Club encourages businesses that want to get involved in this year's race to get in touch to discuss the various sponsorship packages that are available.

To enter the 2026 Royal Escape Race or find out more, visit www.sussexyachtclub.org.uk/royal-escape-race