The Round the Island Race 2025 is set for Saturday, 7th June 2025 and promises to be a highlight of the sailing calendar. Hosted by the Island Sailing Club, this annual race attracts over 8,000 sailors who come to compete in a 50 nautical mile course around the Isle of Wight. The race is famous for its inclusive “Race for All” spirit, welcoming everyone from enthusiastic first-timers and families to seasoned professionals. This creates a diverse fleet ranging from small dinghies to high-performance racing yachts, making for a captivating spectacle on the water.
Participants will experience the thrill of navigating the challenging waters around the island, with its varied wind conditions and tidal streams. Spectators will have the opportunity to watch the fleet from numerous vantage points around the island, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
In addition to the sailing action, the event fosters a festive atmosphere onshore, with various activities, entertainment, and hospitality for both participants and spectators. The Round the Island Race 2025 is not just a competition, but a celebration of sailing, camaraderie, and the beauty of the Isle of Wight.
For those seeking a prime spot to view the race, Ventnor is an excellent choice. Spectators can watch the yachts navigate past the town’s iconic cliffs and beach, providing an exhilarating visual experience. Ventnor’s elevated position ensures that viewers get a panoramic view of the race as the boats pass by.
FAQs
We get asked a range of questions by our guests, so here are some useful answers:
- How long is the race?
The course is approximately 50 nautical miles, starting and finishing in Cowes, and taking competitors around the Isle of Wight. - What are the main challenges of the race?
Sailors must navigate changing tides, unpredictable winds, and the famous Needles rocks, making it a test of skill and endurance. - How do I register for the race?
Registration is done through the official Round the Island Race website, where participants can find entry details and deadlines. - Where can spectators watch the race?
Popular viewing spots include The Needles, St Catherine’s Point, Cowes and of course Ventnor, where spectators can see the boats pass by. - Are there prizes for winners?
Yes, trophies and awards are given in various categories, including fastest time and best performance in different classes. - What happens after the race?
The event concludes with a prize-giving ceremony and celebrations at the Island Sailing Club, where competitors and spectators gather to mark the occasion. - Do boats need to have tracking enabled?
Yes, tracking must be turned on via the registered mobile phone for the duration of the race. - How do I know my start time?
Start times are listed in the sailing instructions, and competitors are notified approximately 10 days before the race. - Can I get a mooring in Cowes?
Moorings are available in several locations, but they get booked quickly, so advance booking is essential. - Is the Round the Island Race suitable for beginners?
Yes! While challenging, the race welcomes sailors of all experience levels, making it a fantastic opportunity for newcomers to test their skills.
Accommodation
You can see the competitors going past Ventnor by staying at our accommodation: Beach View Apartment (the balcony is a particularly good place to view the race), Gills Cliff House and Bermuda House.
