One month countdown to Round the Island Race 2026

Needles rounding during the Round the Island Race © Paul Wyeth / www.pwpictures.com

The iconic Round the Island Race is just a month away and there's still time to be involved. Over 600 boats have already signed up for this year's race, which takes place on Saturday 11 July.

The 50-nautical mile race circumnavigates the Isle of Wight, involving competitors from all over the globe.

Entries are open until Wednesday 8 July, with cheaper, standard entry fees available until 24 June.

Dave Atkinson, Race Director, said: "As always, we're very excited about the race and really looking forward to welcoming everybody.

"It's a very special day to be part of, so whether you've taken part before or thinking about it for the first time, we would love you to be there with us."

Setting off from the famous Royal Yacht Squadron Line in Cowes, this year from 7.30am, the event is known for bringing together world-renowned sailors with families and first-time racers.

The course record for a monohull boat, set by Mike Slade on ICAP Leopard in 2013, is 3h 43m 50s, while Ned Collier Wakefield set the multihull record of 2h 22m 23s in 2017, on Concise 10.

Dave added: "The race itself is different each year but regardless of the conditions, we all enjoy a good day's sailing.

"The camaraderie and companionship of the fleet going round make it very special, so don't delay, get signed up and enjoy the Round the Island Race 2026 with us."

In addition to the race, entertainment will be on offer in the newly-extended Race Village on Cowes Parade throughout the weekend, while spectators can enjoy the race from a host of official venues across the Isle of Wight.

For all the information about Round the Island Race 2026, and to enter, visit roundtheisland.org.uk