On Water Programme 2026

ROYAL SOUTHERN YACHT CLUB – ON WATER PROGRAMME 2026

By James Ripley-Giles, Sailing Manager

The Royal Southern Yacht Club is delighted to introduce its 2026 Sailing Programme— the most comprehensive schedule the Club has produced. This programme includes a wide range of world-class racing, cruising, motorboating, and youth activities, highlighting our commitment to excellence both on the water and ashore.

A New Flagship: Junior and Youth Pathway Programme

Our enhanced Youth Pathway is a vital part of the 2026 calendar. This programme runs throughout the year and provides structured training and racing opportunities for all age groups. It includes multiple progression routes, such as our innovative keelboat development pathway, designed for young sailors aiming to develop advanced skills and gain competitive experience.

Expanding Racing Programme

Our racing calendar continues to grow stronger, developed in close partnership with leading one-design classes. We are pleased to welcome back the Etchells, RS21s, XODs, Sonatas, J/70s, Cape 31s, 420s, and many more. We are particularly honoured that the Sonatas, J/70s, and Cape 31s have chosen the Royal Southern to host their National Championships in 2026.

The racing program will also include:

– League racing, featuring the British Keelboat League Finals

– Passage races and Club trophy races

– Two offshore events

– A variety of inshore series

New for 2026, we are excited to launch Friday Evening Club Racing, which will run throughout the summer.

Summer Series

Our flagship Summer Series is set to be bigger and better than ever, featuring more classes, the same renowned race management, and even larger after-sail social events.

Cruising Programme Highlights

The Club’s Cruising Section has arranged an exciting and varied programme of events, which includes:

• Mid-week and weekend rallies

• The Solent Cruiser Race

• The Cowes Christmas Sail-Over

• A flotilla adventure to the British Virgin Islands

The highlight of the 2026 cruising season will be the Summer Cruise, taking members to both the Channel Islands and Brittany.

Motorboating Adventures

Our motorboat community will enjoy an active programme with mid-week, and weekend trips planned to Haslar, Yarmouth, Weymouth, Cowes, Bembridge, Beaulieu, and Lymington.

A Programme for Every Member

The Royal Southern Yacht Club aims to give every member the opportunity to go out on the water, whether for racing, cruising, powerboating, or participating in our various on-the-water activities. We believe that the 2026 programme will have options for everyone and will help further strengthen our lively and active community.

More information about each event, including ways to get involved, will be shared soon. In the meantime, we warmly invite you to contact us with any questions.

On Water Programme 2026