More than a regatta: Experience the RS Games
by RS Sailing 17 Apr 12:00 BST
16-26 July 2026
Looking for more than just another regatta? The RS Games delivers an unforgettable blend of world-class racing, vibrant community, and festival-level fun.
Held every four years, the RS Games is the biggest celebration of RS Sailing classes. This year, it brings together 12 classes, 13 championships, all set within the iconic Travemünder Woche. The best part? RS always ensures competitive sailing meets an unmatched social experience. RS Sailing's Managing Director, Alex Newton-Southon, and Head of Commercial, Michiel Geerling, explain why you should be part of it.
Exceptional Sailing
"At the heart of the RS Games is what we all love most - racing. RS Sailing is run by sailors, for sailors," explains Alex. "I think you'd be hard pushed to find another boat builder that's crazy enough to put on these sorts of experiences for their sailors. The RS community is everything to us - it's the reason we do what we do. So being able to get stuck in and create these memorable experiences to show our appreciation for our classes is incredibly important."
Depending on the class championships, sailors will have 4 or 5 days of high-quality, competitive racing on courses designed specifically for RS Sailing fleets. Unlike many events where fleets are grouped into a one-size-fits-all format, RS classes enjoy dedicated courses tailored to their racing style. "That means better racing, fairer competition, and more time doing what you came for!" adds Alex.
RS Sailors will also benefit from the presence of National and International Class Managers, offering guidance and support throughout the event. Add in coaching clinics that encourage discussion, skill-sharing, and fleet development, and you've got an environment built to help every sailor improve.
Race in more than one fleet
Not only that, but the racing schedule has been carefully designed to allow sailors to compete in more than one class if they wish. "The RS Games is often a summer holiday for families, so we wanted to make back-to-back racing as accessible as possible," explains Michiel.
"For example, those racing in the RS500, RS700 and RS800 European Championships in the first part of the Games can stay on and jump in an RS21 charter with friends, or race in the RS200s and RS400s later on in the event."
Similar opportunities exist for youth sailors too. Kids can race the single-handed RS Tera World Championship from 18-21 July, then pair up for the RS Feva World Championship, 22-26 July. "It also makes life easier for parents supporting sailors in multiple classes, as they won't need to juggle events on the same day," adds Michiel. "We also know of several RS Feva teams planning to race in the RS500 beforehand."
A standout on-shore experience
The RS Games isn't just about what happens on the water - it's about creating a seamless and enjoyable experience on shore too.
Dedicated dinghy parks and camping areas keep RS communities together, making it easy to connect with fellow sailors. "Across the venue, you'll find three RS Sailing Hubs at key launch points, staffed by knowledgeable and friendly RS team members ready to assist," says Alex.
Then there's the signature RS atmosphere. "Think magenta carpet, music, interactive games, and even the chance to try out demo boats for free!" adds Michiel. It's lively, welcoming, and unmistakably RS.
Customer support is second to none. Whether you need help with spare parts, quick repairs, or just some advice, RS staff are on hand in every zone to keep you sailing - and smiling.
"Plus, don't miss out on exclusive RS Games merchandise," adds Alex. In partnership with Travemünder Woche's official clothing sponsor, Marinepool, sailors can access limited-edition, high-quality gear at special discounted rates.
A festival like no other
The RS Games is part of Travemünder Woche - one of Northern Europe's largest sailing festivals. "The entire seaside town transforms into a buzzing hub of activity, with live music, street food, market stalls, street performers, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the night," says Michiel, who has sailed there multiple times before.
But for the RS Games, RS sailors get something extra: "a party within the party!"
Enjoy a full calendar of exclusive RS social events, including:
- Class opening ceremonies to kick things off
- After sailing beers and relaxed pontoon parties
- Daily prize-givings celebrating sailors across the fleet with sponsor goodies
- Two huge RS Games parties bringing everyone together
- Special class evenings aboard the iconic Passat tall ship for sundowners (plus guided tours for youth sailors)
- A memorable closing ceremony with fireworks and final celebrations
Dedicated RS Media
"Who doesn't love a great photo of themselves sending it downwind?" Alex grins. In addition to the Travemunde Wocher team, RS Sailing is bringing in a dedicated media to capture every moment. "Each class will have a media boat on their racecourse taking pictures and videos, with dockside and dinghy park chats on the agenda too - so every class gets a share of the spotlight." And, if you're quick back to your RS hub each day, you might even be able to pick up a free mini print of the best moments on the water.
More than a regatta
From competitive racing and expert support to that unbeatable RS Sailing social scene, the RS Games offers something truly special. "It's not just about results - it's about community, connection, and creating memories both on and off the water," says Alex.
For more information, head to the RS Games for advice on accommodation and camping, Notice of Race, charter availability and more useful information.
Ready to join the action? The whole team at RS Sailing can't wait to see you on the sandy beaches of Travemünde this summer!