We’ve rounded up some key dates for sailors and boating enthusiasts alike, from international boat shows and classic regattas, to global yacht races of epic proportions. Whether you plan on entering races (check that your insurance covers you for racing), visiting shows or simply soaking up the festival atmosphere across events, there is hope of an exciting year for sailing ahead, which you won’t want to miss.
Please note, at the time of publication the events listed are scheduled to take place as normal – however future Government restrictions brought on by Covid-19, may impact the running of some events.
RYA Dinghy Show, Farnborough, UK – 26-27 February
Browse dinghies, enjoy demos, and shop all the latest kit, clothing, courses, equipment, trailers, engines and more. If you plan to visit the show, don’t forget to stop by the Bishop Skinner Marine stand and discuss any boat insurance questions you may have with the team. https://www.rya.org.uk/events/dinghy-show
Round the Island Yacht Race, Isle of Wight, UK – 25 June
Around 1,400 yachts and over 16,000 sailors compete in the Island Sailing Club’s Round the Island Yacht Race. A one-day yacht race, with competitors coming from all over the UK, and further afield, to follow the 50 nautical mile course round the Isle of Wight. Enjoy watching world-renowned sailors racing against families and first timers, or maybe take to the waters yourself and see how you fare! www.roundtheisland.org.uk
British Classic Week, Isle of Wight, UK ‒ 16-23 July
Another Isle of Wight event, but this time a regatta celebrating classic yachts. British Classic Week provides an occasion for classic boat enthusiasts to enjoy racing, and spend time with fellow like-minded sailors. The six-race series, organised by the prestigious Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS), takes place in the challenging tidal waters of the Solent and is a unique spectacle to behold. https://www.britishclassicweek.co.uk/
Cowes Week, Isle of Wight, UK – 30 July-5 August
A classic in its own right since 1826, Cowes Week has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar, and is one of the UK's longest running sporting events. The event offers a great mix of competitive sailing and social activities, with up to 40 daily races for 8,500 competitors, ranging from Olympic and world-class professionals, to weekend sailors. If you decide not to participate, join over 100,000 spectators watching the sailing, enjoying the entertainment, and soaking up the atmosphere. www.cowesweek.co.uk
The Golden Globe Race, Les Sables d’Olonne, France – 4 September
To celebrate Sir Robin Knox-Johnston’s historic 1968/9 world first, solo, non-stop circumnavigation, in the Sunday Times Golden Globe Yacht Race, a new Golden Globe Race was staged in 2018 to mark the 50th Anniversary. The race is back for 2022, and once again competitors will be sailing solo via the five Great Capes, using similar yachts and equipment, to what was available to Sir Robin in 1968. In contrast to the current professional world of elite ocean racing, this race turns its back on modern technology, and is certainly not for the faint-hearted. https://goldengloberace.com/
Sevenstar Round Britain and Ireland Race, Isle of Wight, UK – 7 August
Back on Isle of Wight, for the start of the Sevenstar Round Britain and Ireland Race. A challenging, offshore race, held every four years, covering 1,805 nautical miles, circumnavigating all the islands of the UK, including Muckle Flugga, the most northerly point. The 2022 race will feature a wide variety of yachts and teams, but is certainly not a race for novices. See the race unfold online with fleet tracking, or head to Cowes to enjoy watching the crews cross the finish line. https://roundbritainandireland.rorc.org/
Southampton International boat, Southampton, UK – 16-25 September
Featuring everything the leisure marine industry has to offer, Britain’s festival of boating once again returns for its 53rd show. Whether you’re looking for a new paddleboard, or the latest superyacht, the show promises to deliver expert advice, interactive attractions and beautifully designed boats and products from a wide range of global marine brands. https://www.southamptonboatshow.com/
Monaco Yacht Show 28 September – 1 October
If you’re in the market for a new superyacht, The Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) is the place to go. Meet with leading industry experts and hand-picked luxury manufacturers to discuss your yachting desires. Discover future trends and luxury superyacht must-have accessories, from nautical gadgets and water toys, to premium tenders and helicopters.
https://www.monacoyachtshow.com/en
The Ocean Race, Alicante, Spain – December
The 14th edition of The Ocean Race begins in Alicante in December 2022. The race will visit eight international cities, finishing in Genoa, Italy in the summer of 2023. The Ocean Race combines human adventure and world-class competition, pitting some of the sport’s best sailors against each other across the world’s most powerful waters. Pick a team to support and follow their incredible journey across the globe, as the world’s top sailing teams circumnavigate the planet, powered only by the wind. https://www.theoceanrace.com/
If you’re planning to invest in new kit or upgrades for your boat next year or even dreaming of your own sailing adventure, it’s important to make sure you and your boat are adequately protected. Talk to our specialist team to discuss the cover you need, and how Bishop Skinner Marine can help, on 0800 783 8057.
