'Conquer the Island' launched by Little Ship Club with Mike Golding and Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston © Southampton International Boat Show

Sailing Legends, Skippers & Yachtmasters Set to "Conquer the Island" in Landmark Isle of Wight Expedition

Like many of the best days on the water, the Little Ship Club's latest coastal challenge was envisioned during a cruise debrief over a few pints. In the bar of the Island Sailing Club, "Conquer the Island" was born, officially set for 15 April to 19 April 2026.

Fittingly, the idea echoes the origins of the Little Ship Club itself, which this year celebrates its 100th anniversary. The club was founded a century ago over pints in a pub by a group of sailors determined to get people out on the water. This event is all about bridging the gap between the classroom and the cockpit. It's a chance for members of the Club who are Day Skippers and Yachtmasters to take their shore-based theory and put it to work on a demanding 50-nautical- mile circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight.

An Epic Coastal Sailing Challenge

This isn't just a standard cruise. Crews will execute a clockwise transit of the Island, sailing the traditional Round the Island Race route in reverse. It's a technical 8-9 hour passage that requires precise timing to hit tidal gates, navigating heavy commercial traffic, and managing the unpredictable elements.

The heart of this journey lies in the calibre of the leadership on board. Crew will have the opportunity to sharpen their skills alongside a powerhouse team of sailors. The fleet will be led by a cohort of Little Ship Club Skippers and First Mates, bringing a wealth of experience. Joining this elite group are two of the most respected names in global offshore sailing...

Mike Golding OBE

The Little Ship Club's president and one of the sailing community's most accomplished skippers, Golding is renowned for both solo-sailing and leading elite racing crews. He made history as the first person to sail around the world non- stop in both directions and is a Vendée Globe podium finisher, bringing decades of offshore racing experience.

Mike Golding OBE - photo © Emily Whiting

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

Knox-Johnston became the first person to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world during the 1968-69 Golden Globe Race. He is a distinguished sailor with awards to his name and an advocate for making offshore sailing more accessible to future generations. Additionally, he has served as a past president of the Little Ship Club.

Event website: web.littleshipclub.co.uk/event-details/conquer-the-island-2026

An Adventure Powered by Community

The Little Ship Club is excited to announce a remarkable coalition of partners supporting this exciting adventure, a mission fuelled by the sailing community that honours maritime traditions while promoting modern ocean stewardship.

Conquer the Island would not have been possible without...

Prometheus Sailing: Prometheus Sailing provides the technical infrastructure for the event. As a leading yacht management firm and RYA school, they supply a high-specification, matched charter fleet. This ensures that the competition remains fair and that all vessels meet professional safety and performance standards.

Island Sailing Club: The Island Sailing Club serves as the event's logistical and social base. As the birthplace of the Round the Island Race, the club provides a deep-rooted connection to Solent sailing history. They are responsible for hosting the awards ceremony and providing a dedicated space for crews to congregate.

Sunsail: Sunsail is the primary sponsor for the event dinner. Their involvement highlights the transition from initial RYA training to global cruising through chartering. With a network of over 20 international destinations, they represent the practical application of the sailing skills being developed in new and exciting destinations around the world.

International SeaKeepers Society: This global non-profit engages the yachting community in ocean conservation. Alongside Ambassador Mike Golding OBE, participants will act as citizen scientists by reporting pollution and hazards to the Eyesea global database, turning offshore sailing into active environmental stewardship.