Entries open for British Classic Week 2022

Entries are now open for the 20th anniversary of British Classic Week regatta, which will take place from 16-23 July in Cowes, Isle of Wight.

Founded in 2002 and hosted by the British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC), the annual regatta comprises a six-race series, organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron, within the Solent. Set to be a celebration of classic yachts on and off the water, the event attracts approximately 600 competitors and guests from across the UK, Europe and further afield.

Criteria for entry is IRC classic yachts of 24ft and over or modern classic, Spirit of Tradition yachts of either wood or steel construction. This year, the regatta will host a new class for gaff-rigged yachts to race under the latest OGA ratings. Cruising yachts and classic motor boats are also invited to join British Classic Week to watch the racing, explore local waters and enjoy the social scene.

“Pre-entry interest in attending the 20th edition of British Classic Week has been high, and we are anticipating a wide range of classic and modern classic yachts from across the UK and Europe this year,” says BCYC Commodore, Jonathan Dyke. “We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to Cowes to celebrate 20 years of classic yacht racing and camaraderie.”

Sailors will face a six-race series of varied courses, including round-the-cans races and the 30nm Nab Tower Race that takes in the Horse Sand and No Man’s Land Forts. Spectators will be able to get close to the action on the water and watch line starts and finishes in front of the famous Royal Yacht Squadron club.

The racing is complemented by a varied social programme that includes the traditional welcome reception on the lawn at The Royal Yacht Squadron on the Sunday as well as a prize giving dinner on the Friday evening. Regatta attendees will also be given the opportunity to explore the fleet of timeless classics during the Open Yachts Pontoon Party.

“British Classic Week began in 2002, when a group of like-minded owners started a regatta to celebrate classic yachts and the people who maintain them,” says Dyke. “Whilst the regatta has evolved, the ethos is the same: quality racing, camaraderie, and a shared appreciation of beautiful classic yachts.”