Each year the Round the Island Race attracts thousands of sailors and spectators. The event goes around the island once, in an anti-clockwise direction.
But just how far is the Round the Island Race?
The Round the Island Race as the sea gull flies is approximately 50 nautical miles long around the Isle of Wight, which equates to 93 km or 57 standard miles long. Of course the wind and tide might be such that you do more than the estimated 50 nautical miles.
It is a one day event and can take between 3 to 10 hours to complete the race, depending on the wind and what type of boat you use to sail around the Isle of Wight. The course record stands at 2 hours 22 minutes and 23 seconds, set by Ned Collier Wakefield on Concise 10 in 2017.
How you can take part this year
The Round the Island Race is an annual yacht race around the Isle of Wight that starts and finishes of the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes. The race has a rich history, dating all the way back to the first event in 1931. Since then, it has grown in popularity and prestige, attracting sailors from all over the world and is considered a highlight of the UK sailing calendar.
The Round the Island Race is a challenging event as there can be strong winds coupled with strong tidal currents that can test your sailing skill. Those taking part need to navigate a variety of hazards which include sandbanks, rocks, and shipping lanes over the 50 nautical mile long route.
This year’s race takes place in June and is set to see more than 16,000 sailors taking part, from Olympic gold medallists and world champions to amateur crews and those trying their hand at racing for the first time.
And this could even include you.
If you want to compete in this unique yacht race around the Isle of Wight, then why not join the First Class Sailing team?
There’s no experience required as full training is given before you join the crew on one of our yachts. To find out more and sign-up, click here.
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