The British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC) has announced entry applications are open for its annual British Classic Week regatta in Cowes. Taking place from 17th to 24th July, the 19th edition of the event will combine competitive racing with camaraderie and is set to be a celebration of classic yachts.
Above: racing in the Solent sunshine. Image: Chris Brown
Criteria for entry is IRC classic yachts of 24ft and over or modern classic, Spirit of Tradition yachts of either wood or steel construction. Fast-paced racing for classes 1-4 and a 6mR class will take place in the challenging tidal waters of the Solent against the historic, picturesque backdrop of the Isle of Wight.
Race management organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron will see beautifully maintained classic yachts battle it out over a six-race series of varied courses, including round-the-cans races and the 30nm Nab Tower Race that takes in the iconic Horse Sand and No Mans Land Forts.
Above: yachts approaching No Mans Land fort during the NAB Tower Race. Image: Guido Cantini
BCYC Commodore Jonathan Dyke commented, “After an extremely challenging year, we are very much looking forward to hosting British Classic Week this summer. With a renewed appreciation for yachting in home waters and a lack of racing opportunities over the past year, we know classic yacht owners are keen to be back out on the water.”
Keen spectators will be able to enjoy fantastic views of the racing from the coastal paths and secluded beaches along the north shore of the Isle of Wight. Line starts and finishes in front of the famous Royal Yacht Squadron allow shore-based crowds to get close to the action on the water.
Above: crossing the line in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron. Image: Chris Brown
This year’s British Classic Week will see a bumper line-up of event support in the wake of Panerai’s long-term partnership with the event. This year’s sponsors include OneSails, Spirit Yachts and BRIG RIBs, with event support from Suffolk Yacht Harbour and traditional chandlery Classic Marine. The UK’s leading publication on classic and traditional boats, Classic Boat magazine, remains the regatta’s media partner.
Also new for British Classic Week 2021 is a partnership with the Tall Ships Youth Trust. As the regatta’s official charity partner, the Tall Ships Youth Trust will be integrated into all aspects of the week, from sailing to socialising and fundraising.
Above: The Tall Ships Youth Trust is the official BCW charity. Image: Tall Ships Youth Trust
With drinks brands Adnams, Hattiers Rum and Dartmouth Gin providing celebratory drinks delivered direct to yachts after they have crossed the finish line, the social scene promises to be lively on and off the water.
BCYC Commodore Jonathan Dyke added, “This year’s social programme remains as vibrant as ever, with a balance of casual and more formal events. Whilst we are mindful of Covid and we will adhere to any restrictions in place at the time, we are lucky that the mostly outdoor nature of the event means we can be flexible with the arrangements. We remain optimistic and we have planned a dynamic week full of “old favourites” and fun new additions.”
The social programme includes the traditional welcome reception on the lawn at The Royal Yacht Squadron on Sunday 18th July. On Tuesday 20th July, regatta attendees will have the opportunity to peruse the fleet of timeless classics during the Open Yachts Pontoon Party (sponsored by Classic Boat with drinks by Hattiers Rum and Dartmouth Gin).
Above: Drinks at the Royal Yacht Squadron. Image Chris Brown
Thursday night at the regatta will be hosted by yacht Stiletto to celebrate the 60 years since the 33ft Kim Holman designed sloop was built by Whisstocks boatyard in Suffolk. This free of charge party will be limited in numbers and tickets for the BBQ and live band party can be applied for at entry on a first come, first served basis. The regatta will round off with a prize giving dinner on Friday evening.
Above: yacht Stiletto racing at British Classic Week 2018. Image: Guido Cantini
A daily programme of ‘cruise in company’ events will see the cruising fleet sail to a variety of beautiful locations including lunch breaks at the Master Builders on the Beaulieu River and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club in Fishbourne on the Isle of Wight.
The motto of the BCYC is Per Ardua ad Marum (Through hard work to the Seas), paying homage to the commitment required to own and maintain a classic yacht. Most of the classic yachts that attend the regatta are privately owned, meaning that for many their upkeep is purely down to the devotion of their owners and crew. Founded in 2001, the BCYC will celebrate its 20th anniversary at this year’s British Classic Week.
To enter, go to www.britishclassicweek.co.uk